Liechtenstein MPs vote to legalise abortion despite threat of veto - BBC News

Organisers of the citizens' initiative say they have popular support, even though the all-powerful monarch has said he will veto the legislation.

Image source, ReutersImage caption, The vote went ahead despite the threat of veto from the country's all-powerful ruler

Liechtenstein's parliament has narrowly backed a citizens' initiative to legalise abortion during the first 12 weeks of pregnancy.

The initiative, led by a group of women, would also lift a nationwide ban on providing information about abortions and make the procedure eligible for health insurance.

It was approved by 13 votes to 12 in the 25-seat parliament. However, it is unlikely to become law as the country's all-powerful ruler, Hereditary Prince Alois, has previously said he will veto the legislation.

Supporters of the bill say there is widespread backing in Liechtenstein to legalise abortion. However, MPs rejected a separate proposal to put the issue to a public vote.