Liechtenstein made history by electing Brigitte Haas, a lawyer and leader of the Fatherland Union party, as its first female head of government.
Haas’s party secured 38.3% of the vote in Sunday’s election, comfortably ahead of the Progressive Citizens Party, which garnered 27.5%.
As the leader of the largest party, Haas is set to become prime minister of the conservative microstate, which operates as a constitutional hereditary monarchy. The election saw a turnout of 76.3%, with 16,171 votes cast.
Haas’s election marks a significant milestone for Liechtenstein, a country known for its traditional political structures. The principality balances power between the monarchy and its people, with Prince Hans-Adam II as head of state and his son, Prince Alois, serving as regent since 2004.
The monarchy retains the authority to veto laws, a power reinforced by a 2003 referendum.
The Fatherland Union’s victory reflects a shift in Liechtenstein’s political dynamics, as voters endorsed Haas’s leadership and vision. Her election is expected to bring a fresh perspective to the government, with a focus on addressing contemporary challenges while respecting the nation’s unique constitutional framework.
