Lifenews reports that on September 18 Liechtenstein, a small country in Western Europe has rejected the legalization of abortion through a national referendum. In Western Europe alone it has the lowest abortion rate in the world with 11 per 1,000 women aged 15-44, compared to Eastern Europe with 90 per 1,000. This was a great day for Liechtenstein and for the pro-life movement worldwide with 52.3 percent of residents voting to reject legalized abortion.
This law would have allowed those with a disability to be killed at any time during the pregnancy. Father Shenan J. Boquet, Human Life International President said, “this referendum specifically targeted babies with disabilities was deplorable, and we are very happy that life will continue to be protected in Liechtenstein.” Despite pressure from other countries, the people of Liechtenstein put Life and morals before self-interest.
Many pro-life organizations came together during the referendum process to speak out for Life and to raise awareness. Thanks to the hard work and efforts of all these organizations, including Human Life International, the German organization Embryoneoffensive and HLI Helpers Europe the people of Liechtenstein were reminded of the value of life and chose to affirm a Culture of Life in their country. Father Boquet said, “This victory is yet another example of the people of Europe embracing their faith and the protection of human life as seen in Hungary, Poland and even Russia this past year.”
Abortion is a controversial issue world-wide and many countries struggle to find the right solution. Mother Teresa once said, “There are two victims in every abortion: a dead baby and a dead conscience.” Though people come from all different parts of the world with different backgrounds, the belief that life is precious and should be protected even within the womb still prevails. Liechtenstein is just another exceptional country helping to move us forward on this road to victory.
