Liechtenstein
Country overview
The Principality of Liechtenstein is located between Switzerland and Austria, making it one of only two doubly landlocked countries in the world. Covering an area of 160 square kilometres, it is the fourth smallest state in Europe and the sixth smallest in the world. Liechtenstein has a resident population of approximately 40,000.
Liechtenstein was first established within the Holy Roman Empire in 1719 and became a sovereign state in 1806, before becoming fully independent in 1866 when the German Confederation (established in 1815) dissolved. Since the end of World War II, Liechtenstein has economically linked itself towards Switzerland, a relationship that was stabilised by a joint customs treaty and the introduction of the Swiss franc as the official currency of Liechtenstein in 1924.
Bilateral relationship
Australia and Liechtenstein share a constructive relationship, underpinned by our common commitment to promoting democracy, good governance and human rights.
The Swiss Embassy in Canberra and Consulates-General in Australia are responsible for Liechtenstein’s affairs in Australia. The Australian Embassy in Bern is accredited to Liechtenstein. In recognition of the growing relationship between Australia and Liechtenstein, a bilateral Tax Information Exchange Agreement was signed in 2012.
Texts of bilateral agreements are available at the Australian Treaties Database.
Australia and Liechtenstein are both strong supporters of the International Criminal Court (ICC) and work closely on ICC issues through the ICC Informal Ministerial Network.
Political overview
Liechtenstein is a constitutional hereditary monarchy; the official Head of State is His Serene Highness Prince Hans‑Adam II who assumed the regency on 13 November 1989. On 15 August 2004, Prince Hans‑Adam II appointed Hereditary Prince Alois as Deputy Head of State enabling him to perform official duties as the Head of State for Liechtenstein.
The government of the Principality of Liechtenstein is the executive authority comprised of the Prime Minister (head of government) and four ministers. The Landtag is the legislative branch of the government; it has 25 members elected by the people for a period of four years.
Foreign policy
Liechtenstein’s foreign policy is centred on its neighbouring states and economic integration in Europe. It has close legal and economic ties with Switzerland and Austria; other important partners include Germany and the United States. Liechtenstein is a politically neutral country and does not have a military.
Liechtenstein is a member of the European Free Trade Association and the Council of Europe. It is not a member of the European Union but joined the European Economic Area in 1995 and the Schengen Area in 2011. Liechtenstein is also a member of the World Trade Organisation and became a member of the United Nations in 1990.
Economic overview
For centuries, Liechtenstein was a relatively isolated country reliant on its small agricultural sector and some textile production to support its economy. However, following World War II, Liechtenstein redefined itself from an almost exclusively agricultural state into a highly modernized, export-oriented industrial society with manufacturing as its leading sector. Liechtenstein’s economy is highly diversified with a large number of businesses, particularly in the services sector.
Liechtensteiner companies operating in Australia include Hilti, Ivoclar Vivadent, and LGT Capital Partners.
Contact
Australia’s diplomatic representation in Liechtenstein is from the Australian Embassy in Switzerland.
Australian Embassy Bern
Weltpoststrasse 5, 3015 Bern
Ph: +41 (0)31 310 17 80
Email: bern.embassy@dfat.gov.au