Liechtenstein MPs vote to legalise abortion despite threat of veto

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.

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.