The Landtag of Liechtenstein (German: Landtag des Fürstentums Liechtenstein) is the unicameral legislature of the Principality of Liechtenstein. It serves as the representative body of the citizens and functions within a constitutional framework that combines parliamentary democracy with a hereditary monarchy.
Composition and Elections The Landtag consists of 25 members, known as deputies, who are elected for four-year terms. Elections are conducted via a system of proportional representation within two multi-member electoral districts: the Oberland (Upper Country), which elects 15 members, and the Unterland (Lower Country), which elects 10 members. To gain representation in the Landtag, a political party must meet an electoral threshold of eight percent of the total votes cast nationwide.
Functions and Powers The primary responsibilities of the Landtag include the proposal, deliberation, and enactment of legislation. It is also responsible for approving the national budget and ratifying international treaties. The Landtag exercises oversight of the national administration and the activities of the government.
In the process of forming a government, the Landtag proposes candidates for the positions of Head of Government and Government Ministers. These individuals are then formally appointed by the Reigning Prince. The government requires the confidence of both the Landtag and the Prince to remain in office.
Constitutional Relationship with the Monarchy Liechtenstein operates under a dualistic system where sovereignty is shared between the Prince and the people. Consequently, for a bill to become law, it must receive the approval of the Landtag and the subsequent sanction (assent) of the Reigning Prince. The Prince also possesses the constitutional authority to dissolve the Landtag, provided specific legal requirements are met, and to issue emergency decrees.
Seat of Government The Landtag meets in the Landtagsgebäude (Parliament Building) located in Peter-Kaiser-Platz in the capital city, Vaduz. The building was designed by architect Hansjörg Göritz and was officially inaugurated in 2008. Prior to this, the legislature met in the nearby Government House.