Liechtenstein parliament narrowly backs abortion legalization initiative

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.

Almost 80% of Liechtenstein's population of about 41,000 people belong to the Roman Catholic Church which is opposed to abortion.

The country last held a referendum on legalising abortion in 2011, when the proposal was rejected by 52% of voters. Hereditary Prince Alois had indicated at the time that he would have opposed the change.

Abortion is legal in most EU countries.

In Liechtenstein, it is allowed only in limited circumstances, including when a woman's life is at risk or a pregnancy is the result of rape.

Anyone who carries out an abortion outside those exceptions can face up to three years in prison, while a woman undergoing the procedure can be jailed for up to a year.

The current restrictions mean women have to go to other countries - mainly neighbouring Austria and Switzerland - to have an abortion. Since 2015, they have been able to do so without facing a penalty, but the cost is not covered by the health insurance.

The initiative to change the law was led by 28-year-old Tatjana As'Ad of the small left-wing Free List party. Supporters collected 4,970 signatures, nearly five times over the threshold needed to bring the proposal before parliament.

The proposed 12-week limit is already used in many European countries. In England, Scotland and Wales, it is legally available up to 23 weeks and six days under most circumstances.