Liechtenstein's hereditary prince blocks abortion law reform in first use of veto
Prince Alois overrides parliament and citizens' initiative signed by a quarter of voters
The hereditary prince of Liechtenstein, Alois, has used his veto for the first time in his reign to strike down a bill that would have decriminalised abortion up to 12 weeks, bringing the principality's laws in line with much of Europe. The bill had been approved by parliament last month after a citizens' initiative backed by more than 4,970 people, far exceeding the 1,000 signatures needed, and polls showing majority public support. The decision has left campaigners disappointed and highlighting a single individual overriding a democratic decision.