Facts and figures about Liechtenstein
The Principality of Liechtenstein is located in the heart of Europe in the Alpine Rhine Valley surrounded by the neighbouring countries of Switzerland and Austria.
System of State, Constitution
Liechtenstein is a constitutional hereditary monarchy on a democratic and parliamentary basis. The power of the State is enshrined in the Prince and the people and is exercised by both according to the requirements of the constitutional provisions (Art. 2 of the Constitution of 1921).
Head of State
Prince Hans-Adam II von und zu Liechtenstein, Duke of Troppau and Jägerndorf, Count of Rietberg. On 13 November 1989, upon the death of his father Prince Franz Josef II, Hereditary Prince Hans-Adam assumed the regency as Prince Hans-Adam II. On 15 August 2004, His Serene Highness Prince Hans-Adam II appointed his son, His Serene Highness Hereditary Prince Alois as his permanent representative and conferred upon him the mandate to administer the business of the State in accordance with the Constitution.
Parliament
The Liechtenstein Parliament consists of 25 members. It exercises its rights in the full Parliament. Liechtenstein has a small Parliament in an international comparison.
Government
In accordance with the Constitution, the Government is a collegial authority and consists of the Prime Minister and four additional Ministers. The Reigning Prince appoints the Prime Minister and the additional Ministers on recommendation of the Liechtenstein Parliament.
Administration of justice
Jurisdiction in civil and criminal matters is exercised in the first instance by the Court of Justice, in the second instance by the Court of Appeal and in the third and final instance by the Supreme Court. Administrative jurisdiction is exercised by the Administrative Court and by the Constitutional Court. The courts are located in Vaduz.
Capital
Vaduz
Population
35,168 (31 December 2006); of which 34 % are foreign nationals, primarily Swiss, Austrian and German citizens.
Language
The official language is German, The spoken language is an Alemannic dialect.
Religion
80.4 % of the population is Roman Catholic, 7.1% Protestant, 12.5% belong to other faiths.
State celebration
15 August
Currency
Swiss franc (CHF)
Area
160 sq. km./ 61.8 sq. miles