2003 Liechtenstein constitutional referendum

A constitutional referendum regarding the Prince’s powers was held in Liechtenstein on 14 March 2003. The referendum had two questions; a "Princely Initiative" and a "Constitution Peace Initiative".[1] The first question passed with 64.32% in favour and the second question was rejected by 83.44% of voters.[2]

2003 Liechtenstein constitutional referendum
14 March 2003
LocationLiechtenstein
Results by municipality
"Princely Initiative
For
 
 64.3%
Against
 
 35.7%
Princely Initiative approved
Constitution Peace Initiative
For
 
 16.6%
Against
 
 83.4%
Constitution Peace Initiative rejected
Principality of Liechtenstein
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The Princely Initiative asked voters whether to approve an extension of the power of the Prince to dismiss the government, nominate judges and veto legislation.

The Constitution Peace Initiative asked voters whether to approve or disapprove of constitutional modifications, including modifications which would have restricted the Prince’s powers.[3] The BBC stated that the referendum in effect made Liechtenstein into an "absolute monarchy".[4] In December 2012 the Venice commission of the Council of Europe published a comprehensive report analysing the amendments, opining that they were not compatible with the European standard of democracy.[5] Prince Hans-Adam II had threatened to leave the country and live in exile in Vienna, Austria if the voters had chosen to restrict his powers.[6]

Results

Princely Initiative
Choice Votes %
For9,41264.3
Against5,22135.7
Invalid/blank votes212–
Total14,845100
Registered voters/turnout16,93287.7
Source: Nohlen & Stöver

Constitution Peace Initiative
Choice Votes %
For2,39416.6
Against12,06583.4
Invalid/blank votes386–
Total14,845100
Registered voters/turnout16,93287.7
Source: Nohlen & Stöver

References
  1. Dieter Nohlen & Philip Stöver (2010) Elections in Europe: A data handbook, p1173 ISBN 978-3-8329-5609-7
  2. "Referendum Results". IFES Election Guide. Retrieved 2011-02-19.
  3. "Election Profile". IFES Election Guide. Retrieved 2011-02-19.
  4. "Liechtenstein prince wins powers". BBC News. 2003-03-16. Retrieved 2011-02-19.
  5. Opinion on the amendments to the constitution of Liechtenstein proposed by the Princely House of Liechtenstein Venice Commission
  6. "Calendar of Events for March 16, 2003". Encyclopædia Britannica. Retrieved 2011-02-19.
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