Interview Liechtenstein, friendly to Japan's imperial family, gives women path to rule

Hereditary prince says succession system's overhaul aims at stability as much as gender equality

Liechtenstein's Hereditary Prince Alois, who serves as regent on behalf of Prince Hans-Adam II, speaks to Nikkei on Aug. 25 at Vaduz Castle. (Photo by Pierre Virot)

VADUZ, Liechtenstein -- Liechtenstein has opened the way for a woman to become head of state by reforming a succession system that had for more than 400 years limited succession to male descendants. Despite a population of just over 40,000, the principality is one of the few European monarchies in which the sovereign retains significant constitutional powers.