Hereditary Prince Alois has highlighted the benefits of the Liechtenstein Constitution. Speaking in an interview, he said the monarchy brings stability to the country, while Liechtenstein is more democratic than some republics thanks to direct democracy and municipal autonomy.

The Liechtenstein Constitution has proved its worth, according to Hereditary Prince Alois. “A monarchy brings stability and continuity, because it is not up for regular reelection,” said the head of state in an interview with “Neue Zürcher Zeitung”. This allows long-term issues on the political agenda to be addressed. Hereditary Prince Alois added: “Without the significant role played by the princes at the start of the nineties, Liechtenstein would not have joined the UN or the EEA.”  

He continued to say that Liechtenstein was in several ways more democratic than many republics. “Individual citizens have huge rights thanks to extensive democracy. We have decentralized structures and high levels of municipal autonomy,” he explained. Furthermore, the princes’ rights, such as the rights to veto and to pardon, are similar to those of the heads of state of many republics. Since the 2003 constitutional amendment, the public can propose a vote of no confidence. In such a case, “the sovereign would likely stand down, or the Princely House would need very good reasons to keep him in office”, said Hereditary Prince Alois.   

He also praised the European Economic Area (EEA), which Liechtenstein joined under the leadership of his father Hans-Adam II. As a member, the country has gained positive experiences, he said. “I think the EEA will continue for a long time to come. As we know, provisional arrangements tend to last the longest.”  

The interview was published to celebrate 300 years of the Principality.

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