23369full VNR Liechtenstein June 2019

Sustainability in Liechtenstein
Report on the implementation

of the 2030 Agenda for
Sustainable Development
Editor
Government of the Principality of Liechtenstein
Peter-Kaiser-Platz 1
9490 Vaduz
Liechtenstein
Design and typesetting

Büro für Gebrauchsgraphik AG, Vaduz
Print
Wolf Druck AG, Triesen
June 2019
Contents
1 Introduction 5
2 Summary and key points 6
3 Implementation process and implementation priorities in Liechtenstein 8
4 Implementation of the individual SDGs 10
SDG 1: End poverty in all its forms everywhere 11
SDG 2: End hunger, achieve food security and improved nutrition and 13
promote sustainable agriculture
SDG 3: Ensure healthy lives and promote well-being for all people of all ages 16
SDG 4: Ensure inclusive and equitable quality education and 20

promote lifelong learning opportunities for all
SDG 5: Achieve gender equality and empower all women and girls 26
SDG 6: Ensure availability and sustainable management of water and sanitation for all 31
SDG 7: Ensure access to affordable, reliable, sustainable and modern energy for all 34
SDG 8: Promote sustained, inclusive and sustainable economic 37

growth, full and productive employment and decent work for all
SDG 9: Build resilient infrastructure, promote inclusive and 44

sustainable industrialisation and foster innovation
SDG 10: Reduce inequality within and among countries 48
SDG 11: Make cities and human settlements inclusive, safe, resilient and sustainable 52
SDG 12: Ensure sustainable consumption and production patterns 57
SDG 13: Take urgent action to combat climate change and its impacts 60
SDG 14: Conserve and sustainably use the oceans, seas and 64
marine resources for sustainable development
SDG 15: Protect, restore and promote sustainable use of terrestrial 65

ecosystems, sustainably manage forests, combat desertification, halt and
reverse soil degradation and halt biodiversity loss
3
SDG 16: Promote peaceful and inclusive societies for sustainable development, 68
provide access to justice for all and build effective, accountable and inclusive
institutions at all levels
SDG 17: Strengthen the means of implementation and revitalise 71

the global partnership for sustainable development
5 Non-state actors and sustainability 75
6 Areas for action in the future 77
4
1 Introduction
2019 is a special year for the Principality With its 17 sustainability goals, the UN
of Liechtenstein: we are celebrating our 2030 Agenda serves as a visionary framework
country’s 300th anniversary. It also gives us for action for all governments. The Agenda
the opportunity to reflect upon progress sets out goals that all countries around
made to date by Liechtenstein and its people the globe need to address. Our country’s
and how they handle natural resources. 300th anniversary is an excellent opportunity
to conduct a comprehensive analysis of
Many factors have contributed to Liechten- sustainable development in Liechtenstein.
stein continuing to exist as a sovereign
state 300 years after it was founded. That is What is the economic, social and environ-
anything but a matter of course for a small mental situation in Liechtenstein and in what
country that has had no armed forces of direction are we developing? What steps
its own since 1868. More than most coun- has the government taken to tackle existing
tries, Liechtenstein has been and is reliant challenges? What role do actors from the
on good neighbourly relations, strong global world of business and civil society play?
partnerships and the force of international What contribution can they make and how
law to protect its sovereignty. In its foreign can the state and the private sector work
policy Liechtenstein consistently advocates together more closely? This report addresses
constructive and inclusive multilateralism, those key questions and provides a first
since only then can we ensure peace, stabili- comprehensive overview of the country’s
ty and global sustainable development in development in all areas of public life.
the long term.
The government is confident that this report
Sustainable development is the key issue will provide the basis for a source of informa-
of our era. Unless an appropriate balance tion on sustainability in Liechtenstein and
is struck between economic development, for considering how we can improve sustain-
social cohesion and protection of natural ability together.
resources, global peace will be in jeopardy.
It is in Liechtenstein’s vested interests to
promote sustainable development at home
and abroad.
5
2 Summary and key points
Sustainable development is a key priority improving sustainability. playing a pioneering

for the government of Liechtenstein. role with certain projects:
For many years, Liechtenstein has been
taking targeted action to promote sustainable • By consistently promoting solar energy,
economic growth, the careful use of natural Liechtenstein has been the “solar world
resources, the conservation of nature and champion” since 2015 with the highest
the landscape, a peaceful, just and inclusive per-capita installed photovoltaic capacity;
society, and to ensure the rule of law. • Every municipality in Liechtenstein is
strongly committed to increasing energy
At international level, Liechtenstein displays efficiency and has been awarded the title
a consistent commitment to promoting “Energy City”. Liechtenstein is the world’s
sustainable development, whether through first “Energy Country”;
protecting and advancing human rights, • With its “Waterfootprint Liechtenstein”
strengthening the rule of law, fighting impu- campaign, Liechtenstein is aiming to become
nity for the most serious violations of human the first country to provide as many vulner
rights and international law, and through able people with access to clean drinking
its commitment to more effective environ- water as Liechtenstein has citizens;
mental protection. Multilateralism is a major • Through the Liechtenstein Initiative, the
focus for Liechtenstein, particularly when financial sector and government are making
it comes to problems that can only be resolved joint efforts to end modern slavery and
through international cooperation. That is human trafficking;
why Liechtenstein was actively involved • Working with the private sector, the Energy
in the negotiation process leading up to the and Climate Pioneers and Energy and Climate
adoption of the UN’s 2030 Agenda and Workshop projects are teaching young
called for it to be of a comprehensive nature. people about sustainability and giving them
Liechtenstein also advocated an effective the tools to play an active part in shaping
review mechanism for the implementation of a sustainable future.
the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs).
Voluntary reporting to the High-Level Politi- The report identifies areas where
cal Forum (HLPF) is an important instrument Liechtenstein has made strong progress
of this review. in implementing the SDGs, in particular:
SDGs 1 (poverty), 2 (hunger), 3 (health),
The private sector and civil society also 4 (education), 6 (water), 8 (work) and
take sustainability very seriously, as shown 16 (peace).
by a survey that was carried out within the
scope of this report. There is a general Some areas have been identified as requiring
desire for close involvement in implementa- more work in the area of implementation,
tion of the 2030 Agenda. though statistical indicators show a positive
trend:
This report on the SDGs shows that, in gen-
eral, Liechtenstein is already implementing • De facto gender equality, especially in poli-
them effectively. In addition, it has taken tics and professional life, has not yet been
significant action in many areas to continue achieved (SDG 5);
6
• There is a high dependence on fossil fuels CHF 200 million annually on philanthropic
(SDG 7); projects. A further CHF 2 million is raised by
• Consumption and production are too numerous civil society organisations for
resource-intensive (SDG 12); humanitarian aid and development projects
• Greenhouse gas emissions are falling, but overseas. The government plans to continue
are too high in terms of the climate objectives expanding the cooperation between the
set out in the Paris Agreement (SDG 13). public and private sector.
Finally, certain areas have been identified

where development is negative and action
is required:
• Mobility in Liechtenstein is heavily based

on motorised private transport (SDG 9 and
SDG 11);
• Biodiversity in Liechtenstein is endangered
(SDG 15).
Existing data was used to evaluate the

development of individual SDGs in Liechten-
stein. The trends were assessed based on
the national system of sustainable develop-
ment indicators, plus some additional indica-
tors. A total of 62 indicators were assigned
to the individual SDGs. Overall, Liechten-
stein’s national indicator system covers few
of the UN’s SDG indicators. In future, it will
be necessary to examine how the national
indicators can be aligned more closely with
the SDGs.
Within the framework of international

solidarity, Liechtenstein makes a substantial
contribution to the implementation of
SDGs in developing countries. It supports
projects relating to almost all the SDGs,
with a focus on education (SDG 4), advancing
the rule of law (SDG 16) and migration
(SDG 10).
The commitment of the private sector

in Liechtenstein deserves special mention.
Charitable foundations alone spend some
7
3 Implementation process and
implementation priorities in Liechtenstein
Implementation of the UN 2030 Agenda and as possible but wishes to focus on the SDGs
its 17 sustainability goals poses challenges where it perceives the greatest need for
for all countries around the globe. Not all action or the most challenges for the future.
countries have achieved the same level of im- The government is striving for increased
plementation and each country needs to engagement in the following fields in particular:
take different action. Irrespective of their level
of development, what all countries have in
common is that economic, social and environ- Ensure inclusive
mental sustainability is yet to be achieved. and equitable
quality education
From the outset, the Liechtenstein govern-
ment chose a systematic approach to analyse
the level of implementation of the SDGs Pursue an active
in Liechtenstein and to define the need for gender equality policy
action. To that end the government estab-
lished an interdisciplinary working group led
by the Ministry for Foreign Affairs, Justice
and Culture and tasked it with the following: Ensure availability
and sustainable
• Performance of a gap analysis with respect management of water
to the level of implementation of the SDGs
• Analysis of the need for action to ensure
implementation Ensure access to affordable,
• Review of data availability for measurement reliable, sustainable
of the SDGs and modern energy
In a detailed analytic process the working

group drew up an overview of the individual Build resilient
SDGs and their targets and also studied infrastructure
the available data for measuring progress.
At the same time the public was informed
at various events about the SDGs and discus-
sions were held with stakeholder groups. Reduce inequality within
and among countries,
Based on the results and the recommenda- especially with respect
tions of the working group and according to migration
to the priority given to the identified need for
action, the government decided to define
the SDGs together with the “2017– 2021 Gov-
ernment Programme” as one of the strategic
guidelines for the government’s work. It aims
for the SDGs to be implemented as broadly
8
Measures to promote The relevant ministries are responsible for
sustainable consumption implementing the various SDG-related
and production projects. The Ministry for Foreign Affairs,
Justice and Culture was tasked with coordi-
nating implementation and with producing
Action to combat climate this report.
change through a consistent
reduction in annual The government is committed to involving
greenhouse gas emissions the private sector and civil society. For that
reason a broad-based survey of actors from
At the same time the government would like the private sector and civil society was
to integrate the SDGs into its government onducted in the course of drawing up this
activities as far as possible. For that purpose report. The aim of the survey was to identify
a number of key projects were named that how the actors view the SDGs and what
are key to implementation of the SDGs and importance they attribute to the SDGs. The
for which coherence with and reference to survey was also designed to identify what
the SDGs should be ensured: activities the private sector and civil society
have already developed for implementation
Development of the of the SDGs and how they assess the level
2025 Education Strategy of implementation achieved.
Measures to improve
the compatibility of
family and career
Development of the
2030 Energy Strategy
Development of the
2030 Mobility Concept
9
4 Implementation of the individual SDGs
Overall trends
For an overall analysis of the SDGs a distinc- SDGs. For the purpose of this report all
tion should be made between the level of existing indicators were matched to the
implementation and the direction taken. relevant SDGs. In addition, further relevant
To analyse the level of implementation, infor- indicators from existing national statistics
mation was gathered from all relevant public were used, with the result that a total of 62
agencies. The analysis of the level of imple- indicators were available for this report.
mentation is chiefly based on the information
and assessments of the relevant agencies. The indicators are used to assess the direc-
tion taken in developing the individual SDGs,
For many years now the National Statistical rather than the level of implementation.
Office (Amt für Statistik) has maintained a For most of the SDGs several indicators are
national indicator system for sustainable available to identify the direction taken.¹
development that consists of a total of 55 indi- An overall trend was identified for each SDG
cators and is published yearly. The indicator on the basis of the available indicators and
system is currently not based directly on the is shown in the following diagram.
SD G 1
SD G
17 1 2
S DG
0.8
SD
0.6 G
6
1
0.4
3
G
SD
0.2
0
SD
15
G4
-0.2
SDG
-0.4
-0.6
-0.8
SD G 5
SDG 13
-1
SDG
12 G
6
SD
SD
11
G 7
SD
SD
10 G8
SD G
SDG 9
Explanation of the diagram:

• A positive number means that the SDG is showing a positive trend (i. e. towards greater sustainability)
• 0 means that there is no significant change
• A negative number means that the SDG is showing a negative trend (i. e. towards less sustainability)
1
In order to assess the trends, the initial values of the data collected (base year) were compared with the most recent values for each indicator.
The base year is not identical for all indicators; instead it depends on when measurement of the indicator began.
10
End poverty in all its forms everywhere
Overall assessment
• There are no extreme forms of poverty in Liechtenstein; SDG 1 is already

well implemented in Liechtenstein
• Only a few households do not reach the national minimum income level from their own resources
and are dependent on social welfare benefit. They are supported by the welfare system.
Situation in Liechtenstein mum income level in Liechtenstein. Instead,

With Gross National Income (GNI) of approx- the minimum income level is established
imately 135 000 Swiss francs per resident, on the basis of the individual situation of the
Liechtenstein is one of the world’s wealthiest persons or families concerned and should
countries. Absolute poverty as defined in be commensurate with the general standard
target 1.1 (1.25 dollars per day) does not exist of living and take the individual situation
in Liechtenstein. However, the high per of those in need into account. There is an
capita income also goes hand in hand with a entitlement to financial social support, if a
high price level. Accordingly, minimum person’s income is insufficient to meet the
income levels are higher than in other coun- minimum income level, established on a
tries in absolute terms. case-by-case basis, that person is entitled
to financial assistance.
The social welfare systems in Liechtenstein
are very well developed as a whole. The state Pensioners, whose income from an old
offers appropriate support for all individuals age or survivor’s pension (AHV) or disability
and families that do not reach the national pension (IV) is insufficient to ensure an
minimum income level from their own re- appropriate living standard or residence in
sources. Nobody needs to live in poverty in a care home, are granted supplementary
Liechtenstein. There are two main instru- benefits. Here, too, there is a legal entitle-
ments available, which essentially are equal- ment to those benefits if the personal and
ly available to all residents of the country. financial conditions are met.
Financial social support ensures a minimum The statistical data show that relative poverty
income level. Under the Social Support Act in Liechtenstein is very low. In 2018 the so-
(Sozialhilfegesetz), there is no fixed mini- cial assistance rate in Liechtenstein was just
11
2.4 %. In other words, only very few house- in the labour market that provide sufficient
holds in Liechtenstein are dependent on income will remain a challenge in the future.
financial assistance to reach the minimum
income level. The rate of supplementary Measures
benefits for old age/survivor’s and disability The government considers it critical to
pensions is low, at 5.5 % (2018). empower social assistance beneficiaries to
lead independent lives, with the focus on
Low-income households in Liechtenstein as long-term (re-)integration of all people
therefore have a relatively high resistance to into the labour market as possible. Poverty
crises. The risk of poverty is accordingly low. can only be kept at a low level in the long
term through regular earned income.
Challenges
Poverty in Liechtenstein is extremely low. In order to further reduce dependence on
Nevertheless, it can be observed that the social assistance, the Liechtenstein authorities
number of households dependent on welfare provide personal assistance, counselling,
support shows a long-term upward trend employment programmes and financial aid
(as does the social assistance rate), although for languages courses or for external child-
a reduction in the rate was observed in 2018. care. The aim is to further reduce dependency
Reintegrating unemployed persons into jobs on social assistance.
Statistical indicators
Beneficiaries of financial assistance

Number of households
700
600
500
400
300
200
100
0
2011
2001
1995
2012
2002
2003
2007
2018
2008
2013
2015
1999
1996
1998
2005
2009
2010
2016
1997
2017
2000
2006
2014
2004
Trend: Increase, sharp decrease from 2017 to 2018 Assessment: neutral

Source: Office of Social Affairs (Amt für Soziale Dienste), Government Accountability Report
(Rechenschaftsbericht der Regierung)
Explanation of the diagram: The number of households receiving social assistance increased by 203 % during the
reference period from 1995 to 2018. It should be noted, however, that the number of households also increased by
156 % in the period from 1990 to 2015.
12
End hunger, achieve food security

and improved nutrition and promote
sustainable agriculture
Overall assessment
• Nobody goes hungry in Liechtenstein; food security is ensured
• The proportion of organic farming in Liechtenstein is very high and is increasing slightly
• SDG 2 is very well implemented and the trend is positive
Situation in Liechtenstein employed in the agricultural sector in 2016.

The remarks concerning SDG 1 make it clear However, the agricultural sector (including
that poverty is not a significant problem households) contributed 7 % to gross value
at the national level. It can also be concluded added in 2016.
that nobody in Liechtenstein needs to go
hungry. As for most countries around the Protecting the incomes of farmers is of
globe, ensuring food security and healthy great importance to ensure that agricultural
nutrition plays an important role in Liechten- production is sustainable in the long term.
stein and is a long-term task of the state. The provision of environmental, landscape
conservation and animal protection services
Providing the population with diverse food- is likewise in the public interest and is pro-
stuffs is achieved both through domestic moted and subsidised by the state. Farmers
agricultural production and through imports. can obtain financial support from the state
Thanks to the customs treaty with Switzer- in various ways.
land, Liechtenstein is integrated in the Swiss
customs area, which means it has unrestrict- The Liechtenstein government has been
ed access to its agricultural and foodstuffs committed to an environmentally friendly
market. approach to agriculture for years. In addition,
all farms are committed to careful manage-
The domestic agricultural sector is relatively ment of resources. The measures taken
small. Only 0.7 % of all employees were by the government to promote sustainable
13
Statistical indicators agriculture are having the intended effect.

The area of organically farmed agricultural
Utilised agricultural area
land has continued to increase since 2005,
in ha
reaching the relatively high figure of 38 % in
5900 2016. In the European Union a proportion
of 6.7 % was achieved in 2017. The equivalent
5700 figure in Switzerland was 14.4 %. This means
Liechtenstein takes a leading position inter-
5500
nationally in terms of sustainable agriculture.
5300
Organic farming also contributes directly
to a healthier diet of the population.
5100
Challenges
4900 Climate change probably poses the greatest
risk to Liechtenstein’s agricultural sector.
4700
Agriculture is affected by changes in the
4500
climate in a range of areas. A combination of
1984 1996 2002 2008 2014 drought, heat stress and high ozone concen-
trations may lead to reduced production in
Trend: Decrease Assessment: negative the future. On the other hand, climate change
Source: Agricultural statistics (Landwirtschaftsstatistik) could also have positive effects on agriculture
because climate-related warming could ena-
ble an increase in production, providing that
sufficient nutrients and water are available.
In addition, climate change is also changing
Environmental compensation areas general global conditions, such as changes
Managed semi-natural habitats and wildflower to the international agricultural market due to
strips as a proportion of the utilised agricultural area water scarcity, heavily fluctuating harvests,
(as a percentage)
rising transport costs, increased demand,
20 land use conflicts and the growing costs of
15.8 16.4 production factors. Accordingly, climate-

15.2 15.1 15.6
15 14.5 related changes may also have an indirect
13.5
impact on the agricultural markets and
10 on production as a result.
5
The dry summer in 2018 further raised
farmers’ and the Public’s awareness of
0
2000 2005 2007 2009 2010 2013 2016
climate change as well as of conflicts
between the different users of the existing
Trend: Increase Assessment: positive water resources. As a result, significant
Source: National Statistical Office;

progress was made with the development
Environmental statistics. of a concept for artificial irrigation of
agricultural land.
14
Measures
In June 2018, the Liechtenstein government
adopted an adaptation strategy to climate
change in Liechtenstein. The strategy identi-
fies potential risks especially for the agricul-
tural sector and formulates specific measures
for adapting to those risks. Some measures
have already been implemented, including:
• Erosion control measures;

• Early warning system for harmful organisms
and pathogenic microorganisms in livestock
(Radar Bulletin).
In addition, further specific activities are

planned to improve the resilience of the
agricultural sector:
• Artificial irrigation of crops;

• Avoidance of heat stress for animals
and crops;
• Early warning system for harmful
organisms in crop cultivation.
Area of organically farmed land in Liechtenstein and the EU

as a percentage of the total utilised agricultural area
LIE EU
40
38.0
35
27.9 28.2 28.2 28.1 30.5

30
25
20
15
10
5.8 6.2 6.7
5.6 5.7
5
0
2005 2007 2009 2010 2012 2013 2014 2015 2016
Trend: Increase Assessment: positive Source: Agricultural statistics (Landwirtschaftsstatistik); Eurostat.
15
Ensure healthy lives and promote

well-being for all people of all ages
Overall assessment
• Healthcare in Liechtenstein is of a high standard
• Healthcare services are available quickly and to everyone
• It was possible to stabilise rising costs in the healthcare sector, but that issue will remain
a challenge in the future
Statistical indicators Situation in Liechtenstein

In general, healthcare provision in Liechten-
Mortality rate
stein is of high quality and availability is high.
up to age 65 per 100 000 residents
All people resident in Liechtenstein have
unrestricted and equal access to health
Total Men Women
services. For all residents there is mandatory
350
healthcare insurance (OKP), which ensures
300 the provision of healthcare services. Each
insured person pays a per-capita premium
250
and a contribution to costs. However, chil-
200 dren aged under 16 are exempt from the
premium payment and contribution. Persons
150 aged between 16 and 20 pay half the premi-
ums of adults aged over 20 and do not
100
have to pay a contribution. Adults with a
50 low household income receive a contribution
to their premiums and contributions.
0
1999
2002
2011
2012
2013
2014
2015
2016
2000
2001
2003
2004
2005
2006
2007
2008
2009
2010
With around 350 residents per practising

physician, the density of physicians is high
Trend: No significant change Assessment: neutral in international comparison. For necessary
Source: Registry statistics (Zivilstandsstatistik), care at home, the organisations “Familien
Population statistics hilfe Liechtenstein” and “Lebenshilfe Balzers”
16
Life expectancy at birth provide services, also at short notice.

in years Primary inpatient care is provided by the
Liechtenstein National Hospital. However,
Men Women there are also additional agreements with
90 some 30 hospitals, clinics, treatment centres
and rehabilitation centres abroad, especially
85
in Switzerland. In terms of long-term care,
80 there are six care homes available in Balzers,
Triesen, Vaduz, Schaan, Eschen and Mauren.
75
70
The good healthcare provision is reflected
in the trends shown by statistical indicators.
65 Life expectancy has risen significantly in
the past 20 years and reached 84 years for
2001
2003
2005
2007
2009
2011
2013
2015
1999
1997
women and 80.6 years for men in 2015.

Life expectancy at age 65 also shows an
Trend: Increase Assessment: positive
upwards trend.
Source: Eurostat
In 2016, the leading causes of death in Liech-

tenstein were heart/cardiovascular disease
(34.5 %), cancer (22.9 %) and respiratory dis-
Life expectancy at age 65 eases (15.3 %). The number of communicable
in years diseases that are required to be reported is
at a low level but fluctuates relatively strongly
Men Women due to the small number of cases. Until 2016
25 the number ranged from 78 to 149 cases.
Maternal mortality, child mortality and the
20
number of persons injured in road traffic
15 accidents are likewise very low.
10
The number of persons resident in Liechten-
5
stein that are infected with HIV is recorded
in official statistics, but no epidemiological
0 evaluation is conducted due to the low number
of cases. The number of diagnosed HIV /Aids
1999
2002
2000
2001
2003
2004
2005
2006
2007
2008
2009
2010
2011
2012
2013
2014
2015
2016
1997
1998
cases has fluctuated since 2000 at around

0.8 to 1.2 cases per year on average.
Source: Eurostat
17
Deaths and injuries from

road traffic accidents Challenges
per 100 000 inhabitants Considerable challenges were posed by the
health costs per insured person, since these
600
costs were constantly increasing by 4 %
500 per annum as a long-term average. Thanks
to measures implemented by the government
400
in terms of fees, and also an increase in
300
contributions, the costs per insured person
have been stabilised since 2013. That is a
200 considerable achievement in international
comparison. The current challenge is to
100
continue to keep costs stable.
0
General challenges can be identified with
1999
2002
2009
2010
2011
2012
2013
2014
2015
2016
2000
2001
2003
2004
2005
2006
2007
2008
1998
respect to health-related behaviour. Numer-

ous health problems are directly related to
Trend: Decrease Assessment: positive (lack of) exercise, poor nutrition and obesity,
Source: National Police (Landespolizei), Government as well as the consumption of nicotine and
Accountability Report (Rechenschaftsbericht der
alcohol. There are certain challenges with
Regierung), population statistics (Bevölkerungsstatistik)
respect to the consumption of legal and
illegal drugs or abuse of medication, espe-
Total fertility rate

Average number of children per woman
2.5
1.5
0.5
0
1999 2000 2001 2002 2003 2004 2005 2006 2007 2008 2009 2010 2011 2012 2013 2014 2015 2016
Trend: No significant change Assessment: neutral Source: Registry statistics (Zivilstandsstatistik)
18
cially among young people.
Measures
The state and local authorities offer numerous
preventive and health-promoting measures.
These includes free check-ups every five years.
In addition, women are invited to attend a
gynaecological screening every 2.5 years.
Furthermore, there are various briefings,
campaigns, projects and target group-specif-
ic or topic-specific measures. Awareness-
raising campaigns in the fields of nutrition,
exercise, nicotine and alcohol have shown
that simple measures can achieve a great
deal in terms of public health.
Trends in health costs

in CHF per insured person, per month
Costs per insured person, per month (mandatory insurance)

Trend 2001–2013: 4.02 % growth per year
450
400
350
300
250
200
2001 2002 2003 2004 2005 2006 2007 2008 2009 2010 2011 2012 2013 2014 2015 2016 2017 2018
Trend: Stabilised since 2013 Assessment: positive

Source: Federal Health Authority cost monitoring (BAG Kostenmonitoring),
Ministry for Social Affairs (Ministerium für Gesellschaft)
19
Ensure inclusive and equitable quality education

and promote lifelong learning opportunities for all
Overall assessment
• Liechtenstein has a high-quality education system that contributes significantly

to positive social and economic development
• Dual vocational training and education play a significant part in Liechtenstein’s success
• Great emphasis is placed on Education for Sustainable Development (ESD)

in the new curriculum
Situation in Liechtenstein country. The importance attached to edu

The Liechtenstein government considers cation in a country is measured by spending
ensuring high-quality education as one of its on education as a proportion of Gross Na-
priorities with respect to implementation tional Income (GNI). The proportion has
of the SDGs. Equal access to education and remained constant at almost 4 % in recent
the organisation of the education system years, highlighting the great importance
have played and continue to play a key role of education in Liechtenstein.
in Liechtenstein’s development. Liechten-
stein’s education system provides its citizens Public education begins for children with
with a wide range of basic and further train- kindergarten at the age of 4; it is at parents’
ing and education options and stands for discretion whether their children attend
inclusive, equal and high-quality education kindergarten. However, the second year of
that supports lifelong learning. kindergarten is obligatory for children whose
mother tongue is not German. Compulsory
The importance of education within a coun- schooling starts at the age of 6 and lasts 9
try highlights to what extent the government years. It consists of 5 years of primary school
and state are willing to invest in, promote and 4 years at a school at secondary level I
and raise the population’s level of education. (lower secondary school certificate). Suffi-
A high level of education is critical for the cient reading, writing and numeracy skills
innovative capacity and competitiveness of a are required for independent and self-reliant
20
Statistical indicators tertiary level. Depending on the school leav-

ing certificate (higher general school leaving
Spending on public education
certificate, technical school leaving certifi-
as a percentage of Gross National Income (GNI)
cate or vocational school leaving certificate),
6.0 that may mean a technical college or univer-
sity. Even low-income individuals have the
5.0 possibility to benefit from tertiary education /
training thanks to the highly developed
4.0
system of grants in Liechtenstein. The pro-
3.0
portion of the population that is educated
at tertiary level is an indicator of the popula-
2.0 tion’s level of education. The proportion
has continued to increase for years.
1.0
A similar indicator refers to early school

0.0
leavers, i. e. to young adults who do not
2004
2005
2006
2007
2008
2009
2010
2011
2012
2013
2014
2015
obtain any further educational qualifications

following compulsory schooling and are not
Notes: The method for calculating GNI changed in participating in any training. The lower the
2013 from ESA 1995 to ESA 2010 proportion of such persons in the population,
Trend: No significant change the higher the level of knowledge and educa-
Assessment: positive tion in the country. That proportion has con-
Source: Education statistics (Bildungsstatistik), tinuously and massively decreased in the
National accounts
past years and decades and is now below 5 %.
The considerable educational diversity

in Liechtenstein likewise includes the promo-
participation in social, economic and profes- tion of talent, with a wide range of training
sional life and are the primary goal of the offered in cultural skills, such as through
9-year compulsory schooling. Based on the the music school or art school. This training
literacy of 15-year olds, it is clear that this paves the way to attend conservatories or
aim is achieved in Liechtenstein. art colleges, or also enable personal self-
improvement.
Young people in Liechtenstein also have
the option of dual vocational training and Liechtenstein enables all children, young
education; attendance of a specialist voca- people and adults to develop their potential
tional school alternates with working days at and receive optimal support, with the focus
a selected company, providing the young on promoting the individual’s potential,
people with comprehensive theoretical and not only through the wide range of educational
practical training that qualifies them later choices, but also through integrated and
to practise a profession. The vocational quali- inclusive support. Children with special
fication can be extended by attending a learning needs (both children with learning
vocational school to take the higher school impairments and children with special tal-
leaving certificate. ents) are supported in lessons by differentiat-
ed class teaching or by special needs teach-
Following secondary level II, all young adults ers. Mentally or physically disabled children
have equal access to further education at the and young people are included in regular
21
Teacher-pupil ratio schools and classes and supported by trained

Number of pupils per teacher staff. Trained school psychologists and
school social workers advise teaching staff,
Total Primary education Secondary education parents and children on their behaviour
(inkl. kindergarten)
and on meeting the learning requirements.
14.0
In addition, there are specific schools for
12.0 pupils with special needs, such as the Special
Needs Centre and the Timeout School.
10.0
In addition, all educational facilities are de-
8.0 signed for children, the needs of the disabled
and for gender equality and offer all pupils
6.0
a safe, violence-free, inclusive and effective
4.0 learning environment. Taking a long-term
2.0 view, upon starting school, measures are
taken to assist, support and promote the
0.0
educational development of each individual
2010 /11
2015/16
2016/17
2014/15
2004/05
2012/13
2006/07
2013/14
2007/08
2005/06
2008/09
2002/03
2003/04
2011/12
2009/10
child, as well as to help their family. There-

fore, each child may later participate and
get involved in professional, economic and
Trend: Decrease Assessment: positive social life.
Source: Education statistics (Bildungsstatistik)
School classes in Liechtenstein are deliber-
ately kept small, with a maximum of 24 pupils
per class to one teacher (in secondary school:
Early school leavers 16 pupils). The better the staff to pupil ratio
As a percentage (the fewer children taught by one person),
the higher the degree of individualised and
Liechtenstein Foreign nationals differentiated teaching and better the rela-
100 tionship of the teacher to the child and vice
90 versa. That has a direct impact on pupils’
personal success at school and is therefore
80
one of the key indicators for the quality of an
70
education system. The ratio in Liechtenstein
60 of 9.2 children to each member of teaching
50 staff can therefore be considered an indicator
of high-quality education. Thanks to the in-
40
30.7
34.1 troduction of a new curriculum for the prima-
30
ry level and secondary level I (Liechtenstein
20 16.4 curriculum LiLe), new emphasis has been
5.7 10.9 placed on holistic and sustainable education.
10
5.0 2.8 2.6 Knowledge, abilities and skills are related
0
to one another within a context; subjects and
1990 2000 2010 2015
disciplines are no longer regarded in isola-
Trend: Decrease Assessment: positive tion, but are linked (combination of subjects
Source: Census in given disciplines). The teaching itself is
skills-based, practical, solution-oriented
and situation-specific, with the focus on the
22
Literacy of 15 year olds application of knowledge. The children

Proportion with a skills level of at least 2 as a percentage develop cognitive and methodological skills
that enable them to solve problems using
100
all required components and to harmonise,
95 coordinate and apply their abilities and
90 skills. In the interest of a holistic education,
another priority of the new curriculum is
85
the development of personal and social skills
80
that are designed to enable children and
75 young people to treat themselves and others
70 in a responsible, respectful and careful
65
manner. As a result, the skills objectives of
the new curriculum simultaneously promote
60
methodological, personal and social skills.
55 Different skill levels that build upon one
50 another enable differentiated teaching to
2000 2003 2006 2009 2012 encourage slow and fast learners. Another
special feature of the new Liechtenstein
Trend: Increase Assessment: positive curriculum (LiLe) is the emphasis on STEM
Source: Education Authority (Schulamt), PISA study subjects; the application of these skills is also
supported by the country’s own pepperMINT
laboratory. This encourages creativity, re-
search, enjoyment of education and scientific
Rate of nationals and foreigners in content, and especially encourages girls
academic secondary school education to take an interest in STEM subjects, which
as a percentage in turn has a direct impact on equal opportu-
nities for women regarding access to and
Nationals Foreign nationals entry into traditionally male professions.
Ratio of grammar school attendance Another priority of the Liechtenstein educa-
of non-nationals to that of nationals
tional system is the acquisition and develop-
100 1.20
ment of foreign language skills, which are
90
key to success in today’s society in the
1.00
80 context of increasing mobility and an ever
70
0.80
more connected world. In Liechtenstein,
60 English is taught from year 1, French is taught
50 0.60 from year 6 and further foreign languages
40 are taught at secondary levels I and II.
0.40
30
Sustainability has been reinforced in the new
20
0.20 curriculum by the introduction of the “Educa-
10
tion for Sustainable Development (ESD)”
0 0.00
discipline, in which seven interdisciplinary
2012
2014
2015
2016
2017
2004
2005
2006
2007
2008
2009
2010
2011
2013
aspects are addressed in lessons: politics,

democracy and human rights; natural envi-
ronment and resources; gender and equality;
health; global development and peace; cultur-
Source: Education statistics (Bildungsstatistik)
al identities and intercultural understanding;
23
economy and consumption. This approach Within the “Nature, People, Society” disci-
teaches children that political, economic, pline the subject of “Ethics and Religions”
environmental, social and cultural processes is now also taught; in that subject children
are linked, that actions today have an impact specifically look at norms and values, culture
on the future and that there are interactions of peace, non-violence, world citizenship,
between local and global actions. Most topics questions of faith, various world religions
have a political, economic, environmental, and ethical issues. Topics such as cultural
social and cultural dimension; they have a diversity, acceptance and tolerance are
history and refer to the future, both in a local covered, with the aim of raising awareness
and in a global context. It is necessary to de- of the preconditions of peaceful societies.
velop a range of disciplinary and interdiscipli-
nary skills to be able to grasp the complexity Also catering to the implementation of
of the world with its relations and interac- SDG 13, in Liechtenstein pupils are made
tions. The topics for “Education for Sustaina- aware of health, healthy nutrition and regular
ble Development” have been integrated into excercise, starting from the first year at
the various disciplines in the Liechtenstein primary school. The Office for Health Promo-
curriculum, in particular the discipline tion in Schools initiates, launches and
“Nature, People, Society”. As a result, from supports specific exercise programmes for
primary school age onwards children are schools and classes; exercise breaks and
made aware of the subject of sustainable active lessons are a regular part of daily
development and develop an understanding school life, as are healthy snacks during
of the importance of sustainability and breaks. In addition, an occupational health
responsible, sustainable behaviour. management scheme for school staff is
currently being developed.
Challenges
Proportion of the population To ensure up-to-date and high-quality
educated at tertiary level teaching in the long term, a range of profes-
as a percentage sional development courses – which are
updated yearly – are available to all teaching
100
staff in Liechtenstein. The range of courses
90 is managed by a dedicated unit at the Educa-
80 tion Authority. The courses and seminars
70
are free of charge for all individuals involved
in education across the country and generally
60
cover topical subjects related to teaching,
50 upbringing, education, health, nutrition,
40 sustainability, environment, personal man-
30 26.2 agement and specific curriculum-related
24.0 and subject-related content.
20 17.0
11.7
10 Measures
0 Currently the introduction of a new educa-
1990 2000 2010 2015 tion strategy is being developed. The new
education strategy is based on overarching,
Trend: Increase Assessment: positive global trends and how they impact on edu
Source: Census cation, and establishes suitable guiding
24
principles, with sustainability reflected

in all subordinate goals. Sustainability refers
both to the individual’s acquisition of compre-
hensive knowledge and skills to ensure suc-
cess and progress in today’s world through
integrated support, and to raising the aware
ness of the individual to local, regional and
global environmental and climate aspects.
Inclusion of all stakeholder groups enables
the development of a forward-looking educa-
tion strategy based on the country’s needs.
25
Achieve gender equality and

empower all women and girls
Overall assessment
• Gender equality has been largely achieved in legal terms
• Equality in professional life and in politics remains a challenge
• The trend is moderately positive
Situation in Liechtenstein discrimination based on gender, marital

Gender equality is a priority in terms of status, family status, pregnancy or mother-
implementation of the SDGs by the Liechten- hood in private-sector and public employ-
stein government. A distinction should ment and in other occupational fields.
be made between de jure and de facto equali- The same applies to access to goods and
ty. In recent decades, de jure discrimination services that are available to the public.
between men and women has been progres-
sively eliminated, with the result that today It should also be noted that the Criminal Code
that genders are largely equal in legal was amended in April 2016 and now contains
terms. a comprehensive ban on discrimination. Since
then public incitement to hatred or discrimi
The Liechtenstein Constitution states in nation, also on the basis of gender, has been
Article 31(2) that men and women are equal. a crime and may be punished with a prison
In addition, legal protection for girls and wom- sentence of up to two years. The term “gender”
en against discrimination is provided by the includes not only women and men, but also
Act on Gender Equality (Gleichstellungs- transsexuals and intersex persons. It is also a
gesetz). The Act governs the rights and legal criminal offence to refuse an offered service
remedies available to girls and women affected that is intended for the public to a person
by discrimination at work or with respect to or group of persons based on the afore-men-
access to goods and services. For the benefit tioned characteristics.
of those affected, the Gender Equality Act
allows for an easing of the burden of proof, Although gender equality has largely been
whereby discrimination has only to be demon- implemented in de jure terms, the de facto
strated credibly. It bans direct and indirect equality of women in politics, in society
26
and in the working world has still not been Women are under-represented in politics.
fully achieved. Inequality between the Currently the government consists of two
genders can be seen in various respects. women and three men. By contrast, there is
a clear difference between representation
In the working world, women are significant- of the genders in Parliament. In the current
ly less likely to hold management positions legislative period (2017– 2021), women
than men. While in 2015 more than 40 % account for just 12.1% of representatives in
of men were in a management position in Parliament (Landtag), with that proportion
their job, that only applied to some 20 % decreasing significantly since 2013. At the
of women. The difference is even more level of municipal councils, the proportion of
pronounced at board level. Only one percent women was 16.5 % in the period 2015 –2019.
of working women are board members, That figure increased significantly in the 2019
whereas five percent of men are. The gap municipal council elections, reaching a historic
in occupational status has reduced in recent high of 39.1 %. In addition, for the first time
years but is still evident. There are also two of the 11 municipalities are led by women.
differences in terms of wages. The median
wage of women was roughly 85 % of the Another relevant topic is domestic violence;
median wage of men in 2016. A large part combating and preventing domestic violence
of that gap can be explained by objective is a high priority. The annual number of police
features, such as occupational status, indus- interventions in domestic violence cases
try and education level. There are currently shows that there are several cases of domes-
no general studies about the extent of the tic violence per year in Liechtenstein. In sta-
non-objectively explicable wage gap. Studies tistical terms, the number of cases fluctuates
that take specific training and position relatively strongly from year to year and no
in the given company into account show general upwards or downwards trend can be
that non-explicable wage differences are detected. Women are significantly more likely
very low. to be victims of domestic violence than men.
Trends in police interventions in cases of domestic violence

Number of cases
Interventions in cases of domestic violence women affected by violence

men affected by violence children / young people affected by violence
35
30
25
20
15
10
0
2001 2002 2003 2004 2005 2009 2010 2011 2012 2013 2014 2015 2016 2017
27
Numerous measures are in place to combat
Occupational status by gender and prevent domestic violence. Liechtenstein
Proportion of working population in a law contains comprehensive bans on gen-
management position as a percentage der-specific violence against girls and women
and therefore fosters prevention and law
Men Women enforcement. That includes the right to pro-
100 tection against violence, enabling the preven-
80
tive eviction of the potential offender and the
imposition of a ban on entering the joint
60 home. In addition, numerous crimes in rela-
44.8 46.6
42.3 42.4 tion to domestic violence are crimes that are
40
23.1 24.1 required to be investigated ex officio. Particu-
20.7
20 16.9
lar attention is paid to the rights of victims
during criminal proceedings. A victim support
0
office has been established for that purpose.
1990 2000 2010 2015
In addition, the state is assisting the preven-

tion of gender-specific violence through
a number of awareness-raising campaigns.
Source: Census
Challenges
In recent years, a great deal has been achieved
Wage gap between men and women in terms of gender equality in Liechtenstein,
Median wage of women as a percentage especially in legal terms. Statistical data
of the median wage of men show, however, that there is still need for
action with respect both to equality in profes-
100
sional life and the political participation of
95
women, even though the trend with respect
90 to SDG 5 is assessed as positive overall
85 83.5 84.8 and the most recent elections at the munici-
82.2 82.8
79.8 80.0 80.5 pal level have shown very good results in
80
this respect. However, these are predomi-
75 nantly social policy issues, rather than there
70 being a need for action in legal terms.
65
To achieve actual equality in all areas of life,
60 an improvement in compatibility of work
and family life is of the utmost importance.
2005
2014
2016
2006
2008
2010
2012
This need applies to women in particular, but

also to men. The insufficient compatibility
Trend: Decrease Assessment: positive
of work and family life is a significant obstacle
Source: Wage statistics (Lohnstatistik)
to career development. The following factors
are currently topics of public debate:
• equal pay for equal work;

• maternity leave and parental leave;
• external childcare options;
• unpaid family work in the household.
28
Another challenge is to achieve the approxi- equality and has expressly made equal
mately equal representation of women opportunities between women and men
and men in political offices. While that may a goal of HR policy goal in the State Person-
be considered to have been achieved in nel Act (Staatspersonalgesetz). Gender-
municipal councils and in government, there based wage discrimination was not observed
is room for improvement in Parliament within the state administration.
and with respect to the positions of municipal
leader or mayor. According to the political A “family policy” working group has been
parties, it is, however, significantly more diffi- established. It addresses the political
cult to convince women to run for office. conditions for improving the compatibility
Since the chances of women being elected of work and family life and launched a survey
were actually higher than those of men in the on the situation of families in Liechtenstein.
latest municipal elections, it is to be hoped All persons in Liechtenstein with children
that it will be easier in the future to persuade aged up to 12 were surveyed, amounting to
women to run for office. a total of 5440 persons. The survey found
that 90 % of those surveyed (88 % of men
Measures and 90 % of women) are satisfied or fairly
Equal opportunities between men and satisfied with their workload and 90 %
women play a significant role in the coalition of those surveyed (89 % of men and 91 % of
agreement of the two governing parties, women) are satisfied or fairly satisfied
the 2017–2021 Government Programme with their childcare situation. Based on the
and the government’s SDG implementation results of the survey, a list of measures
strategy. Accordingly, targeted measures was developed. The individual measures are
have already been implemented to achieve currently being prioritised with respect
this goal. In addition, further measures to implementation.
are being developed. The following measures
can be highlighted: Since 2008, the state as The government takes the view that a specific
an employer has been committed to gender family model should not be imposed by state
Proportion of women in Parliament

as a percentage, including substitutes
30
25
20
15
10
0
1986 –1989 1989 –1993 1993 –1997 1997–2001 2001–2005 2005–2009 2009–2013 2013–2017 2017–2021
Trend: Decrease Assessment: negative

Source: : Official government announcements (Amtliche Kundmachungen der Regierung),
Statistical Yearbook (Statistisches Jahrbuch)
29
Proportion of women on municipal councils contributions, as well as by establishing

45
as a percentage their own day care centres. The Liechtenstein
Chamber of Commerce and Industry (LCCI)
40
included the compatibility of work and family
35 life in its vision for 2025 and is working
30 with its member companies on further im-
provement in this field. The initiatives differ
25
according to company and include flexible
20 working hours instead of core time, more
15 parttime jobs, home office, annual working
hours, help with the search for external
10
childcare, company day care centres, buying
5 additional days off and the provision of
0 unpaid leave to supplement parental leave.
2003 2007 2011 2015 2019
Since the parliamentary elections in 2017,
Trend: decreasing trend between 2003 and 2015, the political parties have launched measures
strong increase in 2019 Assessment: positive to raise awareness and are increasingly
Source: Official government announcements seeking to persuade women to run for office
(Amtliche Kundmachungen der Regierung) and to increase their election chances.
Explanation of the diagram: The proportion of
women represented in municipal councils is shown,
including the leader of the municipality. Looking at
only municipal council seats that are elected via
the proportional representation system, the proportion
of women in the 2019 election is 43 %.
measures, but rather that the greatest possible

choice should be provided.
A “day care financing” working group has

been set up to develop performance-based
financing of day care centres, taking into
account the various forms of childcare and
according to the principle of equal treatment
of all providers. The government has decided
that from 1 September 2019 external childcare
should no longer be financed on the basis
of flatrate support, but on the basis of income
and childcare provided. This should also
enable low-income parents to work.
In addition to the government, the private

sector is also endeavouring to improve
the compatibility of work and family life.
Several Liechtenstein companies support
external childcare, also through financial
30
Ensure availability and sustainable

management of water and sanitation for all
Overall assessment
• SDG 6 is very well implemented in Liechtenstein and the trend is positive
• Climate change poses risks in terms of water management. Measures are provided
for in the adaptation strategy to climate change
• Through the “Waterfootprint Liechtenstein” project, Liechtenstein is contributing globally to

the sustainable management of drinking water and is improving access to clean drinking water in
developing countries
Situation in Liechtenstein resources are suitably protected, regulations

The government considers ensuring access stipulate in great detail what activities are
to clean drinking water and sanitation a allowed when and where for spring areas and
long-term and high-priority goal. Liechten- groundwater pumping stations.
stein has plentiful drinking water resources
of excellent quality. Half of drinking water The municipalities are responsible for estab-
production is from spring water and half is lishment, inspection and maintenance of the
from groundwater. In the country, there are infrastructure. They operate seven water sup-
22 spring regions with a total of 90 springs ply facilities across the country. Investments
for drinking water production. Groundwater are made regularly by the municipalities. They
is used to cover the remaining percentage make forward-looking, high-quality invest-
of water requirements. That proportion fluc- ments to ensure that this impeccable quality
tuates according to consumption and spring can be ensured in the future too. Drinking wa-
discharge. Everyone in Liechtenstein has ter quality is monitored on an ongoing basis
access to running, clean drinking water. by the relevant state and municipal bodies.
In terms of chemical composition, drinking
water in Liechtenstein barely differs in quali- Liechtenstein is also very well positioned
ty from purchased mineral water. That is with respect to sanitation. All wastewater
thanks not least to extensive protection of from households and companies undergoes
the catchment areas of the springs and wastewater treatment and does not enter
pumping stations. To ensure that water the environment untreated.
31
Statistical indicators The indicators for sustainable management

of drinking water show a positive trend overall.
Nitrate content in groundwater
It can be seen, for example, that drinking
Concentration (annual maximum value) in NO³-/l
water consumption in Liechtenstein has de-
creased by almost 40 % since 1982. Both
Balzers (Rheinau) Vaduz (Neugut)
individuals and companies are significantly
Schaan (Wiesen) Ruggell (Oberau)
more economical in their use of the available
14.0
drinking water. It can also be seen that the
12.0
nitrate concentration in groundwater has re-
10.0 mained practically unchanged in recent years.
8.0 The nitrate concentration is also an indicator
for the presence of other contaminants.
6.0
4.0
Challenges
2.0 Although Liechtenstein currently has plentiful
0.0 clean drinking water, there are a number
of risks in the future, especially due to climate
1988
1990
1992
1994
1996
1998
2000
2002
2004
2006
2008
2010
2012
2014
2016
change. Effects on the water cycle are ex-

pected, such as changes in the seasonal
Trend: No significant change distribution of precipitation, the discharge
Assessment: neutral
regime and the groundwater levels. Extreme
Source: Office of Environment (Amt für Umwelt)
events occurring with greater frequency,
such as dry periods and heavy precipitation,
also pose a challenge. Dry periods lead to
water usage conflicts due to reduced water
availability. Heavy rainfall can lead to capacity
bottlenecks in terms of urban drainage and
to flooding. In addition to climate-related
effects on water availability, drainage and
flooding, a decline in quality of the water
Drinking water consumption

in litres per resident, per day
1400
1200
1000
800
600
400
200
–
1982 1984 1986 1988 1990 1992 1994 1996 1998 2000 2002 2004 2006 2008 2010 2012 2014 2016
Trend: Decrease Assassment: positive Source: Office of Environment(Amt für Umwelt)
32
resources is also possible, e. g. through in- • Safeguarding areas that are particularly
creased leaching of contaminants into the suited to the use of groundwater by identify-
groundwater or due to a rise in temperatures. ing them as protected areas.
Measures The following measures are planned

Sustainable water management is an important in the future:
component of the adaptation strategy of the
government to climate change. That strategy • Clearer regulations on the irrigation of
comprises a number of measures to ensure se- agricultural crops;
cure access to clean water in the long-term too. • Monitoring of groundwater temperature;
• If water usage conflicts intensify,
The existing measures include: additional water resource management
• The return of non-polluted rainwater from plans can be drawn up.
settlements to the natural water cycle;
“Waterfootprint Liechtenstein”
To mark World Water Day, on 22 March 2017 insufficient water supply gain long-term
“Waterfootprint Liechtenstein” was launched access to clean water. That is the basis for
by the “Drink & Donate” association and health and prosperity and is therefore
by the “LIFE Klimastiftung Liechtenstein” essential.
foundation. The principle behind the project
is very straightforward: “Drink tap water. Liechtenstein’s ambitious goal
Donate drinking water”. The aim of “Waterfootprint Liechtenstein” is
to provide access to high-quality water to one
Clean water as a basis for life person for every resident of the Principality
The Waterfootprint consists of an environ- of Liechtenstein, i. e. to improve the living
mental and a social component. The environ- conditions of around 38 000 people in need.
mental “footprint” stands for responsible To date a total of 22 009 “water footprints”
management of natural resources. That have been activated in Liechtenstein.
includes greater consumer awareness.
The Waterfootprint means that consumers State and private-sector actors are
refrain from mineral water, which is trans- involved in the “Waterfootprint” project
ported by road and increases plastic con- The Liechtenstein state administration,
sumption and emissions, thereby polluting all Liechtenstein municipalities and numer-
the environment unnecessarily. Instead ous Liechtenstein companies now refrain
they increasingly consume tap water, which from purchasing bottled mineral water and
is of a very high quality in Liechtenstein. only use domestic tap water. The budget
that is saved is used to aid drinking water
However, the humanitarian aspect of the projects in developing countries. For exam-
water footprint – the social footprint – is also ple, between 2017 and 2019, the state admin-
important. Through donations, which are istration activated a total of 3000 water foot
generated by refraining from drinking miner- prints, as a result of which 3000 people in
al water, numerous people in areas with Tanzania have access to clean drinking water.
33
Ensure access to affordable, reliable,

sustainable and modern energy for all
Overall assessment
• The supply of energy to people and companies in Liechtenstein is secure
• Liechtenstein is the world’s first “energy country” and has been a

“solar world champion” since 2015
• The proportion of domestic renewable energy is increasing, but its potential is limited
Situation in Liechtenstein • Increasing energy efficiency by 20 % to

Liechtenstein currently has a secure energy stabilise consumption compared to expected
supply, which is available at any time and consumption without efficiency measures;
affordable for the population and for compa- • Increasing the proportion of domestic renew-
nies. Electricity is the main energy source, able energy sources to 20 % of total energy
accounting for roughly a third of total energy requirements;
consumption, followed by natural gas (21.5 %) • Reduction in greenhouse gas emissions by
and diesel (11.9 %). Overall, there is high 20 % compared to 1990 (see the remarks
dependence on energy imports from abroad. on SDG 13).
Just 12 % of total energy consumption
can be met by domestic energy sources. In the scope of energy efficiency and CO²
The remaining 88 % comes from energy legislation, numerous measures have been
imports. implemented and incentives created to use
renewable energy sources (e. g. financial
The government has been pursuing a clear subsidies for renewable energy sources and
strategy for years with respect to ensuring improved building insulation). In addition
Liechtenstein’s long-term energy supply. to state subsidies, the municipalities also
The 2020 Energy Strategy was passed in 2012 make an important contribution to the 2020
for that purpose. This strategy includes the Energy Strategy through their own measures.
following goals for the period up to 2020: The indicators show that these measures
34
Energy consumption in 2017
Solar Collecotors Bio Gas / Liquid Gas

0.8% 0.6%
Wood
4.2%
Petrol
Electricity
8.4%
32.9%
District heating from
waste inicineration
8.7%
Heating oil
10.9%
Diesel Natural Gas

10.9% 21.5%
have had a significant impact. For example, municipalities have the “energy city” label.
energy consumption per capita has fallen This certificate is awarded to municipalities
by approximately 18 % since 2006. Domestic that lead the way by implementing a sustain-
renewable energy as a proportion of total able energy policy. “Energy cities” promote
energy consumption has increased to 12.6 %; renewable energy sources and environmen-
it is likely that the goal of 20 % cannot be tally friendly mobility and make efficient use
reached by 2020 since the required potential of resources.
is not available within the country.
Challenges
Two examples in particular demonstrate In 2017, the government published an interim
these consistent efforts to increase energy report on the implementation of the 2020
efficiency and renewable energy sources. Energy Strategy. It made clear that a great
deal has been achieved in the field of energy
• Since 2015 Liechtenstein can refer to itself efficiency, but less could be achieved than
as a “solar world champion”. With a cumula- had been hoped with respect to renewable
tive installed photovoltaic capacity of 620 energy sources. It showed that the potential
Watts per person, Liechtenstein is well ahead is significantly lower than originally hoped.
of Germany in first place in the world and However, it also emphasised that climate
has won the SolarSuperState Prize three targets can be met if these measures continue
times in a row. to be pursued consistently.
• Liechtenstein is the first country in the Measures

world that can call itself an “energy country”. Access to clean, modern and affordable
As of November 2012, all the country’s energy is a priority for the Liechtenstein
35
Statistical indicators government with respect to implementation

of the SDGs. The following measures in
Energy consumption
particular are planned to achieve this goal:
in kWh per resident
40 000 A 2050 Energy Vision is currently being

drawn up. The green light was given in
35 000 August 2018. The aim is to develop a long-
term vision for energy policy for the period
30 000
up to 2050. The process is being made as
25 000
broad-based and inclusive as possible.
Several events and workshops have already
20 000 been held to encourage the active partici
pation of stakeholders. As a result, the inter-
15 000 ests and ideas of people in Liechtenstein
2001
2011
are being taken into account as far as possible.

1985
1987
1989
1991
1993
1995
1997
1999
2003
2005
2007
2009
2013
2015
The findings of this participative process

will be included in the 2030 Energy Strategy
Source: Energy statistics (Energiestatistik)
in the first interim stage. The strategy will
take into account both findings from the
implementation of the existing 2020 Energy
Renewable energy Strategy and the needs of the population
Domestic renewable energy as a proportion on the basis of the 2050 Energy Vision.
of energy consumption (as a percentage) It will also be a key component in achieving
Liechtenstein’s climate goals by the year
14
2030.
12
10
0
1990
1992
1994
1996
1998
2000
2002
2004
2006
2008
2010
2012
2014
2016

Source: Energy statistics (Energiestatistik)
36
Promote sustained, inclusive and

sustainable economic growth,
full and productive employment
and decent work for all
Overall assessment
• A high level of innovation and broad diversification of the economy are key factors
of economic growth in Liechtenstein
• There is practically full employment and domestically there are more jobs than people
• With the “Liechtenstein Initiative” for a financial sector commission, Liechtenstein

is committed to combating modern slavery and human trafficking on a global scale
Gross Domestic Product
in CHF million at current prices
7000
6000
5000
4000
3000
2000
1000
0
1998 1999 2000 2001 2002 2003 2004 2005 2006 2007 2008 2009 2010 2011 2012 2013 2014 2015 2016
Trend: Increase Assessment: positive Source: National accounts
37
Unemployment rate Situation in Liechtenstein

as a percentage With a total population of around 38 000
people, Liechtenstein is one of the smallest
3.5
states in the world. It follows that the domestic
3.0 sales market only has greater relevance to
2.5 business. For larger companies, the domestic
sales market is practically non-existent.
2.0
They are, therefore, particularly reliant on
1.5
trade and exports. Due to its customs treaty
1.0 with Switzerland and membership in the
0.5 European Economic Area, Liechtenstein is
part of two economic areas and has direct
0.0
access to both the Swiss and the European
2006
2007
2008
2009
2010
2011
2012
2013
2014
2015
2016
2017
2018 Single Market.
Trend: Decrease Assessment: positive The Liechtenstein economy has always relied
Source: Unemployment statistics on innovation and technology leadership due
to locational factors (high production costs
as well as a strong Swiss franc) and has in
fact achieved these in individual niche indus-
tries. The workplace is therefore also seen
internationally as very competitive. These
factors have led to a significant increase in
economic performance over the past 20 years.
Gross National Income (GNI)

per resident in CHF
160 000
140 000
120 000
100 000
80 000
60 000
40 000
20 000
–
1998 1999 2000 2001 2002 2003 2004 2005 2006 2007 2008 2009 2010 2011 2012 2013 2014 2015
Trend: stagnant Assessment: neutral Source: National accounts
38
Youth unemployment Cost leadership is not possible due to the

as a percentage framework parameters and price dumping
is currently not an issue for suppliers and
4.5
employees. The private sector offers an
4.0 extraordinarily high number of jobs which,
3.5 due to their requirements, demand well-
educated and thus well-paid skilled workers.
3.0
There are just as many jobs as there are
2.5
residents in a population of around 38 000.
2.0 For many years, the number of jobs has also
1.5 been rising steadily. This means that the
1.0
percentage of commuters from neighbouring
countries has been rising for years. The per-
0.5
centage of commuting employees in 2016
0.0 was 54 %. The employment rate of the
domestic population has also increased
2007
2008
2009
2010
2011
2012
2013
2014
2015
2016
2017
2018
significantly over the last 20 years.

The economy of the country is thus a far-
Source: Unemployment statistics
reaching job magnet in the region. Unemploy
ment was only 1.9 % in 2017 and youth
unemployment was, at 2.5 %, also extraordi-
narily low in 2017. Additionally, unemploy-
ment has fallen in recent years. The average
duration of unemployment has been 75 days
for years. Businesses compete with each
other to retain both employees and special-
ists, which greatly strengthens the workers’
position in the labour market.
Labour productivity
Gross value added per employee (full-time equivalents) in CHF
250 000
200 000
150 000
100 000
50 000
–
1998 1999 2000 2001 2002 2003 2004 2005 2006 2007 2008 2009 2010 2011 2012 2013 2014 2015
Trend: stagnant Assessment: neutral Source: National accounts
39
Employment rate A basic prerequisite shaping this development

Proportion of 15 – 64 year olds in the labour force is the high level of education in Liechtenstein.
as a percentage The dual vocational training and education
74
system has proved its worth, and also secures
new talent for the future, thus further reduc-
73 ing informal employment.
72
In an international comparison, the low tax
71 burden on income and moderate non-wage
labour costs reduce the risk of informal
70
employment.
69
Active measures against informal employment

2006
2007
2008
2009
2010
2011
2012
2013
2014
2015
2016 and wage dumping consist of a fine network

of laws, regulations and inspection and sanc-
tioning bodies. So-called universally agreed
Source: Population statistics
collective labour agreements (CLAs) apply to
a total of 16 industries in Liechtenstein and
represent around a third of the workforce.
Employment rate of older workers These collective labour agreements regulate
Proportion of 55– 64 year olds in the labour force both minimum wages and other working
as a percentage conditions which have been negotiated by
64
social partners. Compliance with them is
regularly monitored.
63
62
The companies registered with the Liechten-
61
stein Chamber of Commerce and Industry
60
(LIHK) cover around 40 % of employees
59 in Liechtenstein. A CLA was also negotiated
58 for them, together with the social partners.
57 The LIHK’s members are obliged to comply
56 with it.
55
Only around 10 000 jobs are not subjected
2006
2007
2008
2009
2010
2011
2012
2013
2014
2015
2016
to minimum conditions as negotiated by

the social partners. Most of these jobs,
Trend: Increase Assessment: positive however, are in the financial services sector,
Source: Population statistics where wage levels and working conditions
are above average. Hence working conditions
in Liechtenstein are rated overall as exceed-
ingly good. Evidence of this positive develop-
ment is the number of “working poor”, which
is already low and is tending to continue to
decline.
40
Proportion of commuters Challenges

Proportion of commuters as a percentage of employees Liechtenstein finds itself in an exceptionally
good starting position with regard to eco-
60
nomic growth, working conditions and the
50 labour market. The smallness of the country
and virtually non-existent domestic market
40
implies that Liechtenstein’s capacity for
30 innovation and broad diversification of the
economy must be be preserved. This repre-
20
sents an ongoing challenge for the state
10 and the economy.
0
The indicators show that domestic gross
1980
1982
1984
1986
1988
1990
1992
1994
1996
1998
2000
2002
2004
2006
2008
2010
2012
2014
2016 value added and gross national income are
already at high levels and show a tendency
Trend: Increase Assessment: negative to continue to rise. At the same time, howev-
Source: Employment statistics er, it should be noted that gross national
income per capita and labour productivity
have not significantly changed for years.
Economic growth is, therefore, principally
Public revenue quota of public authorities based on growth in employment. Therefore,
Tax revenue as a percentage of gross the conservation of optimal framework
domestic product (GDP) conditions for Liechtenstein as a business
30
location and further promotion of innovative
capacity will also remain of central impor-
25 tance for the future.
20
Although SDG 8 is well-implemented domes-
15
tically, Liechtenstein companies are also
10 active abroad with production and distribu-
tion sites or source raw materials and goods
5
from foreign countries. The responsibility
0 of the private sector in complying with envi-
ronmental, social labour and human rights
1998
1999
2000
2001
2002
2003
2004
2005
2006
2007
2008
2009
2010
2011
2012
2013
2014
2015
in their production and supply chains is

becoming increasingly important.
Trend: No significant change
Assessment: neutral
Source: Tax statistics, national accounts
41
Working Poor Measures

Number of households In order to support the economy in adapting
to future challenges, and thus secure long-
70
term growth and jobs in Liechtenstein, there
60 is a wide variety of measures that are already
being implemented:
50
40 • In March 2019, the Digital Agenda of the

Liechtenstein Government was adopted.
30
It comprises a variety of goals and concrete
20 measures in the fields of government and
10
administration, business and innovation,
blockchain and fintech, infrastructure, trans-
0
port, health, family and equal opportunity
2001
2002
2003
2004
2005
2006
2007
2008
2009
2010
2011
2012
2013
2014
2015
2016
2017
as well as culture. The agenda is intended

to significantly increase Liechtenstein’s
attractiveness as a location and to actively
involve the population in digitisation issues.
Source: Office of Social Affairs (Amt für Soziale
Dienste), Government Accountability Report • The government encourages innovation
(Rechenschaftsbericht der Regierung) and digitisation through innovation and digi-
tal checks (see the explanations on SDG 9).
The “Liechtenstein Initiative” to combat

modern slavery and human trafficking
The Liechtenstein government and a The international financial sector can be
number of major private companies and associated in varied ways to modern slavery
charitable foundations in Liechtenstein and human trafficking. This can happen,
(LGT Bank, Liechtenstein Bankers Associa- for example, when funds derived from such
tion, Hilti Family Foundation, Medicor illegal practices are used, or by financing
Foundation and Tarom Foundation) have set goods and services with supply chains where
themselves the goal of making, as part of modern slavery or human trafficking occurs.
a public-private partnership, a significant
contribution to the implementation of SDG In light of the global nature of the activity
8.7 (Termination of Modern Slavery) and and the need to access financial data to iden-
related SDGs, such as SDG 5.2 (ending traf- tify abuses, the involvement of the global
ficking in women and girls) and SDG 16.2 financial sector in this fight against modern
(ending Human Trafficking). Worldwide, slavery and human trafficking is essential.
over 40 million people are victims of modern Through the promotion of due diligence,
slavery and human trafficking – an illegal development of responsible investment and
business model that generates some USD promotion of inclusive financial technologies,
150 billion annually. the global financial sector is in a key position
42
to effectively fight modern slavery and

human trafficking. Liechtenstein’s financial
community and regulatory authorities have
considerable expertise in combating illicit
financial flows and can play a pioneering
role in this regard.
The goal of the “Liechtenstein Initiative”

for a financial sector commission against
modern slavery and human trafficking –
developed in cooperation with the United
Nations University, Australia and the Nether-
lands – is the elaboration of a catalogue of
measures that places the global financial
sector at the centre of the global effort to
end modern slavery and human trafficking.
This catalogue is intended to as a tool to
act against those who enrich themselves
illegally and at the expense of others. Recom-
mendations will also be made to financial
institutions to protect against investment in
these businesses. The Financial Sector
Commission – consisting of financial leaders,
global regulators, victims of trafficking
and child labour and civil society actors –
is tasked with drawing up this catalogue of
measures, which will be presented to the
international community at the next high-
level week of the UN General Assembly,
in September 2019.
In addition to Liechtenstein, Australia and

the Netherlands are also partner countries
in the initiative.
43
Build resilient infrastructure, promote

inclusive and sustainable industrialisation
and foster innovation
Overall assessment
• Liechtenstein is one of the most highly industrialised countries in the world

and has great capacity for innovation
• Excellent infrastructure forms the basis for economic development
• There is room for improvement, especially in the field of sustainable transport
Situation in Liechtenstein Liechtenstein is characterised by its high

Ensuring sustainable and resilient infra capacity for innovation. Large and small
structure is one of the government’s priori- companies in Liechtenstein are successful in
ties in the implementation of the SDGs. global markets, often playing leading roles
The country already has well-developed and in technological development in niche fields.
reliable infrastructure, which forms the basis The financial community in Liechtenstein
of its broad-based and inclusive economic also shows an extraordinarily high degree of
development. The transport and telecommu- innovation, such as in the area of fintech.
nications infrastructure is of a high standard. The comparatively high and rising number
The Liechtenstein economy enjoys broad of patent applications filed by Liechtenstein
diversification and, compared to the rest of companies is a testament to their high level
the world, has a particularly high level of of innovation.
industrialisation:
As already mentioned under SDG 8, Liech-
Industry and manufacturing make a major tenstein offers a high number of jobs, of which
contribution to domestic gross value added more than half are filled by commuters from
(43 %) and, together with financial services neighbouring countries. So more than 20 000
(23 %), are the most important sectors of people commute to Liechtenstein every
the Liechtenstein economy. day. This places a heavy burden on traffic
44
Employees by economic sector 2017 Proportion of gross value added in 2016
Agriculture Agriculture and households

0.6% 7%
Industry
Industry
37.5% and trade
37.5%
Services
Services 50%
61.9%
infrastructure, particularly at peak periods. transport among employees. Since then, the
The result is longer traffic jams, especially share of motorised private transport among
at the border. civil servants has been reduced from 72.5 %
to 53 %.
In 2008, the Liechtenstein government
adopted the Mobility Concept 2015. One of Challenges
the guiding principles of this strategy is The preservation of, and increase in, the
sustainability: The interests of society, the attractiveness of Liechtenstein as a business
economy and the environment should be location presents a continuing challenge.
taken equally into account in order to ensure This is especially true against the backdrop
intact development opportunities for future of increasing globalisation and digitisation,
generations. To increase sustainability, on which have a major impact on the economy.
the one hand, a reduction in motorised The state must, therefore, create optimal
work-related individual transport is required, framework conditions so that the private
while simultaneously increasing the share sector can develop optimally, even in the
of public transport. The Mobility Concept age of digitisation.
2015 was updated in 2016 on the basis of the
“Status Report with Outlook 2020” with a Ensuring sustainable mobility is of key
rather short-term timeline. On the one hand, importance to the country. The transport
updating the concept made it possible to infrastructure is subject to evergreater
be more certain about looming developments burdens. Due to the increasing share of com-
and opportunities and, on the other hand, muters and population growth, increasing
it serves as a basis for the development of a traffic volume has to be overcome. Hence,
longer-term mobility concept. increasing the sustainability of transport is
a major challenge.
In parallel to Mobility Concept 2015, opera-
tional mobility management was introduced Statistical indicators on the sustainability
for the national administration, which aims of transport tend to show a negative trend.
to reduce motorised work-related individual The motorisation rate in Liechtenstein, i. e.
45
Statistical indicators the number of passenger cars per 1000

inhabitants, has been rising steadily for years
Motorisation rate
and, by international standards, is relatively
Passenger cars per 1000 residents
high. Additionally, the proportion of environ-
900 mentally friendly traffic is declining steadily.
800 While the proportion of environmentally
700 friendly traffic was still more than 50 %
600
in 1970, by 2010 it had sunk to almost 25 %.
The main reason for this is the increase
500
in motorised individual transport.
400
300
Measures
200
In order to maintain and increase the inno
100
vative capacity of Liechtenstein’s private
0 sector in the long term, the government has
implemented a series of measures:
1965
1968
1971
1974
1977
1980
1983
1986
1989
1992
1995
1998
2001
2004
2007
2010
2013
2016
• The Digital Agenda was adopted in March

Trend: Increase Assessment: negative
2019, and aims to prepare the state, business
Source: Vehicle statistics
and society for increasing digitisation and
to seize its opportunities;
• Regulatory Laboratory as well as Innovation
Clubs, which allow innovative companies
Environmentally friendly passenger traffic
to implement their ideas in cooperation with
Share of environmentally friendly traffic as a percentage
the state and improve framework conditions;
60 • In June 2019, Parliament will consider
54.3
creating a law on tokens and TT²-service
50
providers. The purpose of the law will be to
40 36.1
33.9 promote the potential of the token economy
30 28.0 27.7 and to provide legal certainty regarding to-
24.8
20
ken ownership and blockchain transactions;
• For small and medium-sized enterprises
10
(SMEs) in Liechtenstein, there are also finan-
0 cial support instruments for research and
innovation:
1970
1980
1990
2000
2010
2015
• Innovation Cheques make it easier for

SMEs to get involved in continuous
research and innovation activities. With
Source: Census
the cheques SMEs can turn to research
institutions and take advantage of tailored
research and development services;
• Digital Cheques support SMEs in harness-
ing the potential of digitisation to transform
production, service, work, teaching and
learning processes.
2
Trusted technologies
46
In the mobility area, concrete measures the guiding and transport policy principles
are also planned. As part of the implementa- are currently being reviewed, adjusted
tion of UN 2030 Agenda in Liechtenstein and supplemented where necessary. Special
and the 2017–2021 Government Programme, attention will be given in particular to new
Mobility Concept 2030 is currently being transport requirements, future forms of work
elaborated. Building on the existing mobility and housing, digitisation and technological
concept, a strategy paper focusing on 2030 progress in transport.
will be developed. In a participatory process,
Patent Applications
at the European Patent Office per million inhabitants
1800
1600
1400
1200
1000
800
600
400
200
0
1990
1991
1992
1993
1994
1995
1996
1997
1998
1999
2000
2001
2002
2003
2004
2005
2006
2007
2008
2009
2010
2011
2012
2013
2014
Trend: Increase Assessment: positive Source: European Patent Office
47
Reduce inequality within

and among countries
Overall assessment
• Equal opportunity and non-discrimination are generally well guaranteed in Liechtenstein
• Income inequality is showing an upward trend
• The international solidarity of Liechtenstein is an important contribution to the reduction of

inequalities between states; the ODA interest rate is to be increased in the medium term
Situation in Liechtenstein years of imprisonment. Other special laws,

As already explained under SDG 1 and 2, such as the Gender Equality Act and the
there is scarcely any poverty in Liechtenstein. Disability Equality Act, protect against
Welfare is at a high level. Practically all social discrimination. Liechtenstein is also party to
classes benefit from a higher than average the European Convention on Human Rights
income level. On the other hand, inequality (ECHR) and virtually all of the major UN
in relation to income distribution is showing human rights conventions. Systematic
an upward trend. While the ratio of the top discrimination against individual groups
20 % of earnings to the bottom 20 % was 11.8 cannot be observed in Liechtenstein.
in 2000, the ratio had grown to 13.4 by 2015.
Migration plays a prominent role in the
Another relevant issue is the guarantee current global political situation, as well as
of equal opportunities and the fight against in domestic politics. Liechtenstein has been
discrimination in all its forms. Equality before known as a classic immigration country for
the law is enshrined in Article 31 of the decades. The migration balance is consist-
national constitution. The criminal code also ently positive, which means that more people
penalises public incitement to hatred or dis- permanently immigrate to Liechtenstein
crimination based on race, language, nation- than emigrate. Accordingly, the proportion
ality, ethnicity, religion, belief, gender, disa- of foreigners in the Liechtenstein population
bility, age or sexual orientation as a criminal is high. For many years, this proportion
offence that carries a sentence of up to two has been relatively stable at around one third.
48
Statistical indicators Liechtenstein, within the framework of

applicable laws and regulations as well as
Inequality of the distribution of earnings
governmental decisions, pursues a clear
Ratio of earnings among the top 20%
to the earnings of the lowest 20%
migration strategy. It covers issues such as
types of migrants, skill levels and circular
15 migration, as well as measures to promote
14 integration. In addition, Liechtenstein –
13 not least through its EEA and Schengen /
12 Dublin membership – is committed to devel-
11 opments at the European level, such as
10
the EU Migration Agenda, and initiates any
9
necessary measures to implement these
8
strategies. Furthermore, an integration con-
7
cept, which was adopted in Liechtenstein
6
in 2010 (“Strength through Diversity”),
5
is currently in force. This is based on the
4
“Promote and Demand” principle. The state
3
promotes linguistic and social integration
2
through projects. In return, migrants must
1
commit themselves to learning the German
0
language and familiarising themselves
2014
2015
2013
2011
2012
2000
2009
2010
with Liechtenstein culture and its form of

government.
Assessment: neutral
Source: Tax statistics; National Statistical Office
Net migration
per 1000 inhabitants
20
15
10
-5
-10
1990
1991
1992
1993
1994
1995
1996
1997
1998
1999
2000
2001
2002
2003
2004
2005
2006
2007
2008
2009
2010
2011
2012
2013
2014
2015
2016
Trend: No significant change Assessment: neutral Source: Population statistics
49
Early school leavers by nationality International solidarity is the core instrument

as a percentage of Liechtenstein’s foreign policy in contribut-
ing to the reduction of inequality between
Nationals Foreigners states. Every year Liechtenstein supports aid
100 and development projects in developing
90 countries in the amount of CHF 22.6 million
(see chapter 5 for more information).
80
70
Challenges
60 Current European and international devel
50 opments in the field of migration are also
of particular relevance to Liechtenstein.
40
30.7
34.1 In particular, integration and inclusion of its
30
foreign population in society should be fur-
20 16.4 ther improved in the future. The goal of the
10.9 government is to keep the proportion of
10
5.7 5.0 2.8 2.6 foreigners in the population constant in the
0
long term in order to implement a socially,
1990 2000 2010 2015
ecologically and economically sustainable
migration policy.
Source: Census
International solidarity remains a priority
in foreign policy and the government remains
committed to achieving the 0.7 % ODA target
in the long term. This figure was in fact
Official development cooperation achieved in 2012. However, the strong links
as a percentage of Gross National Income (GNI) between Liechtenstein’s economy with
foreign countries (high commuter percent-
0.80
age, high export percentage) mean that gross
0.70
national income is subject to strong annual
0.60 fluctuations (sometimes in the range of + /-
0.50 10 %). This factor makes reliable, long-term
0.40 ODA percentage planning difficult.
0.30
0.20
0.10
0.00
2000
2001
2002
2003
2004
2005
2006
2007
2008
2009
2010
2011
2012
2013
2014
2015
2016

Source: Ministry for Foreign Affairs,
Justice and Culture
50
Measures
In the field of migration policy, the govern-
ment set up a working group in the spring of
2018 to develop a new integration strategy
and a new action plan for the integration of
people with a migrant background in all areas
of life. As a first step, a migration study was
commissioned by the government, on the
basis of which the 2010 integration concept
is to be revised. Among other things, the
study is to clarify
• What the problems, needs and obstacles

facing migrants are;
• In which areas of migration and integration
policy a need for action exists;
• Which problems should be prioritised
and addressed via an integration strategy;
• And point out good examples from other
countries in terms of labour integration,
education, language learning and community
integration.
In the area of international solidarity, the

government is also committed to increasing
the ODA percentage over the medium term.
51
Make cities and human settlements

inclusive, safe, resilient and sustainable
Overall assessment
• The public transportation network is well developed; the entire population has access to it
in the immediate vicinity of residential areas
• The means of transportation are strongly networked regionally with the neighbouring states
of Switzerland and Austria
• There is potential for improvement in the sustainability of transportation

Liechtenstein has a total area of 160 km²,
Average CO² emissions from
of which around 42 % is forest, 33 % is agri-
new passenger vehicles
cultural land and only 11 % is settlement
in g CO² /km
areas. This means that settlement areas
correspond to around 18 km². The country
Average CO² emissions Target path consists of eleven municipalities, with the
250 largest municipality having just over 6000
200 inhabitants. Liechtenstein has no cities in
the classical sense; the country has a rural
150
character. The municipalities of Liechtenstein
100
and the neighbouring regions in Switzerland
50 (St. Gallen and Graubünden) and Austria
0
(Vorarlberg) form a closely networked agglom
eration area.
2002
2003
2004
2005
2006
2007
2008
2009
2010
2011
2012
2013
2014
2015
2016
2017
The total settlement area in Liechtenstein

Trend: Decrease Assessment: Neutral, still off target increased by almost 40 % between 1984 and
Source: Vehicle statistics – new registrations, 2014; this growth was at the expense of
environmental statistics agricultural land in particular. If we look at
52
Particulate concentration population growth in the same period,

Liechtenstein’s per capita settlement area
Annual average value (PM10) in μg/m³ has not changed significantly since 1984.
Annual limits in effect Access to affordable housing is guaranteed
35 for all people in Liechtenstein, and there
30 is currently an oversupply of housing.
25
Nevertheless, real housing costs have been
rising steadily since 1980. For the population,
20
there is a large variety of green and recrea-
15
tional areas available.
10
5 In 2011, the Liechtenstein government

0 approved the National Roadmap for Spatial
Development. The National Roadmap is
2000
2002
2004
2006
2008
2010
2012
2014
2016
the central planning instrument that identi-

fies and coordinates all significant spatial
Trend: Decrease Assessments: positive activities. It focuses on the areas of country-
Source: Office of Environment (Amt für Umwelt) side, settlement, infrastructure, public
buildings and facilities, as well as transport.
Additionally, each municipality in Liechten-
stein has its own planning instruments
Ozone concentration for town planning (in particular, building
regulations and a zoning plan).
Number of hours in which the immission limit value
of 120 μg/m³ was exceeded
Municipal waste disposal works very reliably
Limit
in Liechtenstein. Household waste is collected
600
weekly and incinerated. However, a large
500 portion of municipal waste is recycled sepa-
400 rately. Municipalities have appropriate recy-
cling centres, where waste is separated and
300
collected for recycling. Municipal waste has
200 increased by about 590 % since the 1970s,
100 but recently has shown to a slight downtrend.
The recycling rate for waste is currently well
0
above 60 % and shows a tendency to increase.
1990
1992
1994
1996
1998
2000
2002
2004
2006
2008
2010
2012
2014
2016

Source: Office of Environment (Amt für Umwelt)
53
Nitrogen dioxide concentration The public transportation network in Liech-

Annual mean value in μg/m³ at various tenstein is well developed; hence the entire
measuring stations population has access to public transport
near their place of residence. There are also
Schaan (Lindenplatz) Schellenberg (village)
excellent crossborder transportation links.
Eschen (Schwarze Strasse) Triesenberg (Malbun)
However, it must also be noted that motor-
limit
ised private transport still accounts for the
50
bulk of traffic in Liechtenstein. Liechten-
40 stein’s air quality is developing positively,
with a perceptible downtrend in the concen-
30 trations of ozone, nitrogen dioxide and
particulate matter.
20
10 Disaster risk management and civil protec-

tion are of high priority in Liechtenstein.
0
Protection against natural hazards of all
1994
1996
1998
2000
2002
2004
2006
2008
2010
2012
2014
2016
kinds, such as floods, landslides, mud flows

or avalanches, is well-developed. The forest
Trend: Decrease Assessment: positive also plays a key role in disaster protection.
Quelle: Office of Environment (Amt für Umwelt)
Over 52 % of the for-ests (3611 ha.) in
Liechtenstein have a protective function;
the proportion of forest area providing direct
protection to persons and property above
settlements and infrastructure is around 23 %.
Municipal waste
Incinerated municipal waste in tonnes, including separated municipal waste
45000
40000
35000
30000
25000
20000
15000
10000
5000
0
1972
1974
1976
1978
1980
1982
1984
1986
1988
1990
1992
1994
1996
1998
2000
2002
2004
2006
2008
2010
2012
2014
2016
Trend: Increase, but decreasing since 2005 Assessment: positive Source: Environmental statistics
54
Settlement area Challenges

in ha Population growth as well as growing
commuter traffic together present major
2000
challenges in terms of the sustainability
1800
of settlements. The unchanging settlement
1600
area per capita, coupled with a growing
1400
population, means that the settlement area
1200
is expected to further increase in the future.
1000
One of the main reasons for this is that
800 there are still a large number of detached
600 houses in Liechtenstein in comparison to
400 multi-family dwellings.
200
0 A more sustainable design for mobility will

1984 1996 2002 2008 2014 also be a key challenge in the future. For this,
see the detailed remarks under SDG 9.
Source: Environmental statistics With regard to disaster risk management,
impacts from climate change are also to
be expected. Specifically, it is assumed that
the following risks will increase in Liechten-
Housing costs stein in the future:
Average net rental price (excluding utilities)
per month and m² in CHF (at 1990 prices) • Floods;
16
• Landslides and mud flows;
14
• Rockfalls and rockslides;
12
• Forest fires due to prolonged droughts; and
10
• Storms.
8
0
1980 1990 2000 2010 2015

Source: Census, National consumer price index
55
Settlement area per resident Due to Liechtenstein’s economic growth and

in m² per resident the resulting increased traffic load in the
lowlands, the “Development Concept Liech-
474
tenstein Lowlands und Schaan” platform
472 was launched in 2016. The goal for the plat-
470
form is to create a master plan that defines
long-term development for transport, settle-
468
ment and the economy as well as the coun-
466 tryside and which will define future spatial
patterns. In June of last year, Vision 2050,
460
which is a preliminary step toward the mas-
462 ter plan and was developed by the govern-
1984 1996 2002 2008 2014 ment together with community leaders, was
presented to the population.
Assessment: positive
Furthermore, work on a spatial concept
Source: Environmental statistics, Population statistics
as a strategic framework for the coordination
of spatial activities with the Development
Concept Lowlands and Schaan and the
Mobility Concept 2030 is currently under-
Measures way. The spatial structure, its function and
Of particular note is Liechtenstein’s adapta- scope for action are to be explained in the
tion strategy to climate change, which spatial concept. Important topics include
includes practical measures necessary for traffic planning (capacity situation at border
dealing with climate-related risks. An array crossings, the promotion of public transpor-
of measures is already being implemented: tation and non-motorised traffic), alternative
energy generation (wind energy plants,
• There are natural hazard maps for the solar plants), sustainable and economical
entire country; they are adapted to changing use of land, as well as population and
situations as needed; employment densities in Liechtenstein.
• Statistical analysis of extreme precipitation
events;
• Integrated risk management (monitoring
as well as the implementation of structural
and spatial protective planning measures
and contingency planning); and
• Revision of forest community mapping,
taking climate change into account.
Additionally, further future measures

are planned:
• Ongoing inspection and adaptation of

existing protective structures;
• Emergency planning for heavy precipitation;
and
• Emergency planning for forest fires.
56
Ensure sustainable consumption

and production patterns
Overall assessment
• The sustainability of consumption and production is improving
• Resource consumption is still too high and must be reduced
Statistical indicators Domestic

In Liechtenstein, no data exists on the total
Energy intensity of the economy
consumption of resources. However, it can
Energy consumption in relation to
Gross Domestic Product (GDP) in kWh per CHF be assumed that it is as high as in Switzer-
land, with which Liechtenstein forms a
0.40 customs union. In Switzerland, the ecological
0.35 footprint is currently about three times as
0.30 large as the world’s biocapacity. Accordingly,
0.25 the need for action to reduce its footprint is
0.20 also evident in Liechtenstein.
0.15
However, the available statistical indicators
0.10
show that resource efficiency in Liechten-
0.05
stein is developing positively. The waste re-
0.00
cycling rate has been increasing for years.
1998
1999
2000
2001
2002
2003
2004
2005
2006
2007
2008
2009
2010
2011
2012
2013
2014
2015
This also underscores the fact that people

in Liechtenstein are aware of the issue and
Trend: Decrease Assessment: positive actively support waste recycling. The energy
Source: Energy statistics (Energiestatistik); and CO² intensity of Liechtenstein’s economy
National accounts has been declining since the end of the 1990s.
Since drinking water consumption is also
falling at the same time (see SDG 6), this
indicates an overall positive development.
57
CO²-intensity of the economy The state has also created stronger incentives
CO² emissions in relation to Gross Domestic for more efficient and less environmentally
Product in g CO² per CHF harmful resource management. Environmen-
tal taxes have increased and apparently have
70
some effect on consumption and production
60
patterns.
50
40
Challenges
30
Despite this positive trend, there is no doubt
20 that additional efforts are required to further
10 improve resource efficiency. However, this
0 requires a fundamental change in the behav-
iour of consumers and producers.
1998
1999
2000
2001
2002
2003
2004
2005
2006
2007
2008
2009
2010
2011
2012
2013
2014
2015
Furthermore, the positive domestic picture

should not be overestimated, since the
Source: Office of Environment (Amt für Umwelt),
improvement in domestic resource efficiency
National accounts
is also linked to the partial relocation of
resource and energy-intensive production
abroad.
Environmental taxes
Income from environmental taxes as a percentage
of national fiscal revenue
5.0
4.0
3.0
2.0
1.0
0.0
1998
2000
2002
2004
2006
2008
2010
2012
2014
2016

Source: Environmental statistics, Tax statistics
58
Waste recycling rate

as a percentage
66
64
62
60
58
56
54
52
1995
1996
1997
1998
1999
2000
2001
2002
2003
2004
2005
2006
2007
2008
2009
2010
2011
2012
2013
2014
2015
2016
Trend: Increase Assessment: positive Source: Environmental statistics
59
Take urgent action to combat

climate change and its impacts
Overall assessment
• Liechtenstein has, in a global comparison, relatively low greenhouse

gas emissions per capita and will further reduce them by 2030
• Measures taken to reduce emissions are having an effect, but there is further
potential for improvement
• Climate protection will be even more strongly integrated into education in the future
• Liechtenstein is expected to withdraw from European emissions trading from 2021

due to the reductions achieved
Situation in Liechtenstein Climate protection is widely integrated in

Liechtenstein is a party to the UN Convention national policy and has been integrated
on Climate Change, the Kyoto Protocol and into various sector strategies. The govern-
the Paris Agreement. Additionally, Liechten- ment adopted a climate strategy in 2015
stein has ratified the second period of the that formulates the measures for achieving
Kyoto Protocol (until 2020), which has not the climate targets. In addition, an adaptation
yet come into force. As a party to the treaty, strategy for climate change, which sets
the country has entered into the following out the risks of climate change for Liechten-
commitments: stein and defines measures for dealing
with them, was adopted in June 2018.
• Reduction of greenhouse gas (GHG) emis-
sions by 8 % compared to 1990 by 2012 Other strategies, such as energy strategy or
(Kyoto Protocol); the mobility concept, are likewise closely
• Reduction of (GHG) emissions by 20 % linked to climate goals. The measures taken
compared to 1990 by 2020 (second period by the government are having an impact
of the Kyoto Protocol); and emissions have shown a downward trend
• Reduction of (GHG) emissions by 40 % since 2008, subject to certain fluctuations.
compared to 1990 by 2030 (Paris Agreement). Per capita emissions were reduced from
60
around eight tonnes of CO² equivalents under the UN Convention on Climate Change
to around 5.2 tonnes in 2016. Liechtenstein and the Paris Agreement. New and additional
thus has relatively low GHG emissions funding for climate projects in developing
per capita compared to other industrialised countries, totalling more than CHF 2 million,
countries. has been made available since 2012.
The first Kyoto period was successfully Challenges

concluded in 2016. The reduction target of When implementing climate targets, particu-
-8 % was achieved through domestic GHG lar attention must be paid to ensuring they
reductions and the use of foreign emission are socially and economically compatible.
credits. In the second Kyoto period, Liechten As the explanations to SDG 7 note, fossil
stein will also achieve its reduction target fuels continue to play an important role in the
of -20 % compared to 1990 with the help of country’s energy supply. This dependence
foreign emission credits. The national climate is difficult to break. In general, it has become
targets under the Paris Agreement (Nationally clear that the rate of renovation of older
Determined Contributions, NDCs) are being buildings is currently too low and that clear
consistently implemented. The emission rules for new buildings to further reduce
reductions are intended mainly to occur dependence on fossil fuels in the future
within Liechtenstein and a portion will be are lacking. Further reductions in the indus-
achieved with foreign credits. trial sector can hardly be achieved without
new regulations. In the transport sector,
Liechtenstein participates voluntarily in measures taken to date have not yet had the
climate financing, which is provided for both desired effect. The trend towards powerful
Development of greenhouse gas emissions
Greenhouse gas emissions in 1000 tonnes CO2 equivalent, incl. LULUCF*

Per capita greenhouse gas emissions in tonnes CO2 equivalent
300 9
8
250
Per-capita emissions
7
Total emissions
200 6
5
150
4
100 3
2
50
1
0 0
1990
1992
1994
1996
1998
2000
2002
2004
2006
2008
2010
2012
2014
2016
Trend: Decrease Assessment: positive Source: Office of Environment (Amt für Umwelt)
*LULUCF: Land Use, Land-Use Change and Forestry
61
and heavy vehicles continues to rise, and target agreements, significant reductions
motorised personal transport is tending to were achieved in the factories.
increase. Furthermore, agriculture should
make an additional contribution to reducing The energy network in Liechtenstein came
emissions by 2030, which will also be a into being several years ago. At these events,
challenge. companies invite guests to visit their plants
and present their efficiency measures.
Measures This platform for exchanging experiences
CO² legislation provides for the possibility has proved valuable and will probably be
of CO² exemption for certain companies, continued.
provided that they make specific commitments
to reduce emissions and implement them Another positive aspect is that a Liechtenstein
in a binding manner. All Liechtenstein com- gas supplier voluntarily agreed to offset its
panies that meet the criteria have made own emissions.
use of this instrument. Under the concluded
Education project: Liechtenstein as climate pioneer
In the future, climate protection and sustain- sustainability, biodiversity, consumption,

ability is to become even more important measurable emission reductions as well
in the country’s kindergartens, primary and as environmentally friendly technologies.
secondary schools. In April 2019, the govern- School classes implement their own projects
ment decided to implement two specific and describe them on an Internet platform.
projects, along with the Swiss “myclimate” Their projects will also be presented at a
foundation. The two projects aim to support local closing event. This is meant to inspire
as many young people in Liechtenstein as others to get involved.
possible in contributing to greater sustaina-
bility and climate protection. As a result, During the five-year project, parallel to the
Liechtenstein should take on a pioneering projects, teaching aids and instructional
role. The projects have been endorsed by material will be developed for teachers’ inde-
business associations and are also supported pendent application of learning content.
by private foundations. The project thus supports the implementa-
tion of the new Liechtenstein curriculum
Project 1: Energy and Climate Pioneers in the Education for Sustainable Develop-
Within the framework of this project, young ment area (ESD – see SDG 4). Teachers are
people from kindergarten through secondary supported through the project to teach
school are encouraged to discover their scope ESD and climate protection in an activity-
for action by developing and implementing oriented way.
sustainability projects in class – for example,
to protect the climate and the environment. Project 2: Energy and Climate Workshop
The following topics can be dealt with in This project is in the field of dual vocational
the projects: Nature, environmental protec- training and education and gives trainees
tion, climate protection, energy efficiency, in Liechtenstein the opportunity to use their
62
professional knowledge to develop sustainable

and energy-saving projects. Trainees should
implement their own projects in small groups
and submit them as part of a competition to
be held every two years. In addition, trainees
should analyse existing processes at their
company, independently develop innovative
solutions and make a valuable contribution
to the business. After the projects have
been submitted for competition, they will
be evaluated by a jury and the best projects
will be honoured at an award ceremony.
Project duration is six years.
Emissions trading
By building a cross-border steam pipeline

from the waste incineration plant in Buchs
(CH) to Schaan (LI), Liechtenstein has
been able to significantly reduce its emis-
sions in the long term, since two large
companies in the country now cause only
very low emissions.
As a result, Liechtenstein will no longer

participate in the fourth European emissions
trading period (starting in 2021), as both
companies will make use of the exemption.
The Emissions Trading Act has had the
desired effect and can be successfully
concluded.
63
Conserve and sustainably use the oceans, seas

and marine resources for sustainable development
Together with Uzbekistan, Liechtenstein

is one of only two states that have no direct
access to the sea and are also surrounded
by neighbouring states that also have no
direct access to the sea (doubly landlocked).
Given its geographical situation, SDG 14
is somewhat less relevant for Liechtenstein
than the other sustainability goals.
However, Liechtenstein is aware that oceans

and seas play a central role in the global eco-
system. By improving domestic sustainability
and through its international solidarity (see
SDG 17), Liechtenstein indirectly contributes
to the sustainable development of oceans,
seas and marine resources.
Liechtenstein’s increasing recycling rate

(see SDG 12) and specific projects, such as
“Waterfootprint Liechtenstein” (see SDG 6),
contribute to the reduction of plastic waste
that could end up in the oceans.
64
Protect, restore and promote sustainable use

of terrestrial ecosystems, sustainably manage
forests, combat desertification, halt and reverse
soil degradation and halt biodiversity loss
Overall assessment
• Ecosystems, such as terrestrial ecosystems and inland water ecosystems,

forests, wetlands and mountains are in good condition and adequately protected
• Liechtenstein is committed to global environmental protection and nature conservation

and participates in close regional cooperation within Europe
• Biodiversity in Liechtenstein is under increasing threat

Liechtenstein is party to every important
Woodland
international legal instrument in the field of
in ha
environmental protection and nature conser-
6700 vation and is actively committed to their
implementation. In particular, the sustainable
6650
management of forests is important, as in
6600 many cases they serve an important protec-
tive function against natural hazards. The
6550
forest area has tended to increase over the
6500 past 30 years due to the extensification
6450
of alpine farming, as has the ecological quali-
ty of the forest. However, due to a lack of
6400 natural regeneration, the protective forests
1984 1996 2002 2008 2014 show a tendency towards ageing.

Ecosystems are generally not in very good
Source: Environmental statistics condition. Particularly in the area of biodiver-
65
Ecological quality of forests sity, it is apparent that more and more

as a percentage species are threatened. The indicators show
a decline in species, particularly among
Proportion of forests with a high amphibians and breeding birds. According
or middle biotope value
to the most recent surveys, the Red List of
90
Threatened Species includes 25 % of plants,
80
44 % of birds, 62 % of fish, 67 % of reptiles
70 and 75 % of amphibians. In amphibians,
60 there is also a negative trend. On the other
hand, the situation for fish has improved
50
slightly. However, the majority of the water-
40
courses in the valley area are still severely
30 impaired, i. e. they run straight and are struc-
20 turally poor over long distances. To achieve
10
a good ecological condition or potential,
further restoration measures are necessary.
0
1998 2010
The most important factors identified in the
increasing threat to species diversity are
the destruction of habitats through the growth
Source: Environmental statistics
in settlement areas and the spread of alien
species.
Challenges
Amphibian species Conserving and improving biodiversity is
currently the biggest challenge in the context
native species at risk of SDG 15. In particular, it is expected that
12 climate change will bring further negative
effects. The climate change adaptation
10
9 strategy identified the following risks from
8
8 climate change:
6
6
5 • Endangering of habitats and species;
4
• Endangering of biotope connectivity and
2 network;
• Spread of alien species;
0
• Reduction of the gene pool leading to the
1995–2002 2003–2010
reduction of genetic diversity.
• Impairment of ecosystem benefits.
66
Breeding bird species Measures

Within the framework of the climate adapta-
native species at risk tion strategy, measures have already been
160 implemented or are planned for the future,
140 136 particularly concerning the conservation
140
131 of biodiversity.
120
A neophyte concept has already been imple-

100
mented. It aims at early detection and control
80 of invasive alien species as well as the con-
servation of habitats that are particularly
60
49 affected.
44
40
The restoration of watercourses is also

20
planned in the valley. These are straight
0 and poor in structure. Targeted restoration
1950–1995 1995–2005 2007–2018 measures should improve habitats and
encourage an interconnected effect.
Fish species
native species at risk

30
25 24 25
20
17
16
15
10
0
1990–1999 2010 –2012

67
Promote peaceful and inclusive societies for

sustainable development, provide access
to justice for all and build effective, accountable
and inclusive institutions at all levels
Overall assessment
• Liechtenstein is a well-functioning constitutional state with a stable and inclusive political system
• A national human rights institution (NHRI) was introduced in 2016 in accordance
with the Paris Principles
• Social cohesion is high and must be safeguarded through constant vigilance against
hate speech and possible radicalisation
• With the “Act on Token and TT Service Providers” and the “Digital Agenda”, Liechtenstein
is striving to enhance legal certainty and the involvement of the general public in the use
of new technologies
• Internationally, Liechtenstein is actively committed to and promotes the protection and
promotion of human rights, the rule of law, and international law
• Liechtenstein is committed to combating corruption and money laundering as well as

to recovering illegal funds internationally
Situation in Liechtenstein can examine laws and regulations with

The Liechtenstein constitution guarantees regard to their constitutionality and hear
comprehensive protection of fundamental individual complaints against violations of
and civil rights. Liechtenstein is also party to constitutionally guaranteed rights. Once
the European Convention on Human Rights all domestic instances have been exhausted,
(ECHR) as well as practically all major UN the inhabitants of the country may, as a
human rights conventions. All people in last resort, lodge an appeal with the Europe-
Liechtenstein enjoy equal access to justice. an Court of Human Rights (ECHR). Liechten-
They have access to a wide variety of available stein has also recognised the right to address
legal claims and complaint options against individual complaints to the UN Committees
official decisions. The constitutional court on civil and political rights against torture,
68
racial discrimination, discrimination against If Parliament rejects an initiative, a referen-

women, and for the rights of the child. dum is held on it.
Liechtenstein’s political system has a high Liechtenstein is one of the safest countries
degree of transparency and inclusion for in the world. Social cohesion and social
all stakeholders. The National Constitution peace are guaranteed. Neither violence in
defines Liechtenstein as a constitutional the public sphere nor crime is an obvious
hereditary monarchy on a democratic and problem. The number of violent offenses
parliamentary basis. No law can enter into ranges from 200 to 250 per 100 000 inhabit-
force without the consent of the Reigning ants on a long-term average. The steadily
Prince and Parliament. In addition to electing growing number of associations in which the
the parliament every four years, the people residents volunteer for various social concerns
have numerous effective instruments for is a good indicator of social cohesion.
political participation at their disposal. In
the case of important legislative proposals, There are effective measures to combat and
the government conducts a consultation prevent violence. To combat all forms of
procedure during which all interested parties violence in public spaces, there is a Commis-
can comment on the proposal before the sion for the Prevention of Violence which
matter is referred to parliament. With 1000 implements various awareness-raising meas-
signatures voters can demand a referendum ures. Of particular note are the successful
against laws passed by parliament and awareness-raising measures by the Commis-
demand a plebiscite. Likewise, the people sion for the Prevention of Extremism and
can launch legal (1000 signatures) or consti- Radicalisation. Since 2011, no incidents of
tutional (1500 signatures) initiatives, which violence motivated by right-wing extremism
must be dealt with by the parliament. have been registered in public.
As a financial centre, Liechtenstein pursues

a clear strategy of transparency and tax
Statistical indicators cooperation. The Liechtenstein Declaration
Violent crimes of 2009 and Government Declaration of
per 100 000 inhabitants 2013 laid the foundation for an open and
internationally oriented financial centre.
300 Through its membership in international
250 organisations, Liechtenstein has committed
itself to the implementation of international
200
standards in the fight against corruption
150 and money laundering and undergoes regu-
lar reviews. These include, for example,
100
the evaluation by the Council of Europe’s
50 Group of States against Corruption (GRECO)
or the review under the UN Convention
0
against Corruption (UNCAC).
2004
2005
2006
2007
2008
2009
2010
2011
2012
2013
2014
2015
2016
Close cooperation with the financial commu-

Trend: No significant change nity to combat illicit financial flows is provided
Assessment: positive by the Financial Sector Commission, created
Source: Statistical yearbook, population statistics by the Liechtenstein Initiative for a Financial
69
Commission against Modern Slavery and can have a long-term negative impact on po-
Trafficking in Human Beings. The initiative litical discourse as well as on social cohesion;
brings together the private sector and the • The consistently high proportion of foreigners
government in a public-private partnership. in Liechtenstein society requires the steady
The Liechtenstein financial sector’s expertise development of integration efforts in order to
is thus used for a project to further the sus- strengthen both the willingness of migrants
tainability goals (see also SDG 8). to integrate and the willingness of Liechten-
stein citizens to accept integration.
Challenges
Constant commitment is required for long- Measures
term social cohesion to be assured. In the case • In March 2019, the Digital Agenda of the
of Liechtenstein, there are three areas in par- Liechtenstein Government was adopted.
ticular where challenges have been identified: It comprises a variety of goals and concrete
measures in the fields of government and
• The opportunities of digitisation must be administration, business and innovation,
exploited by making them accessible and usa- blockchain and fintech, infrastructure, trans-
ble to all social classes where possible. It is port, health, family and equal opportunity
important to prevent individual social groups as well as culture. The agenda is intended to
from being “left behind” by rapid technologi- significantly increase Liechtenstein’s attrac-
cal development. At the same time, the risks tiveness as a location and to actively involve
posed by new technologies must be combated the population in digitisation issues.
(e. g. legal uncertainty and abuse); • The Parliament will address the law on
• Insulting or even discriminatory comments tokens and TT service providers in June 2019.
against individual social groups have in- The purpose of the law will be to promote
creased in Liechtenstein newspapers and the potential of the token economy
on internet forums. So-called “hate speech” and to provide legal certainty regarding to-
ken ownership and blockchain transactions;
• The Commission for the Prevention of
Violence has intensified its activities to
Number of associations prevent “hate speech”. Discussions were
held with the editors-in-chief of the two
350
largest Liechtenstein print media in order to
300 sensitise them to the topic of “hate speech”
250
and to draw their attention to their legal
obligations. These meetings were productive
200
and revealed that the editors had already
150 taken a critical look at the issue and that
the exchange with the Commission was
100
highly appreciated. A regular exchange on
50 the subject of hate speech was therefore
agreed upon.
0
2004
2005
2006
2007
2008
2009
2010
2011
2012
2013
2014
2015
2016
2017

Source: Justice Department, Government
Accountability Report
70
Strengthen the means of implementation

and revitalise the global partnership for
sustainable development
Overall assessment
• Liechtenstein is committed to constructive multilateralism to implement the SDGs globally
• Through specific aid and development projects, Liechtenstein supports developing countries
as partners in the implementation of the SDGs
• Liechtenstein is committed to a universal, rule-based, inclusive and non-discriminatory

multilateral trading system with the WTO at the top
International solidarity
Liechtenstein‘s memberships International solidarity – consisting of
in international organisations development cooperation and humanitarian
aid – is the central instrument through
40 Number
which Liechtenstein makes a substantial
35
contribution to global sustainable develop-
30 ment. This is mainly achieved through
financing aid and development projects in
25
developing countries. The guiding principle
20 of international solidarity is to support
15 developing countries in specifically improv-
ing the framework conditions for devel-
10
opment, empowering people to lead inde-
5 pendent lives and promoting partnerships
0
with various actors to this end (states,
non-governmental organisations and private
1990
1995
2000
2005
2010
2015
2017
individuals). Liechtenstein’s commitment

to international solidarity is as broad-based
Trend: Increase Assessment: positive as possible, with a particular focus on
Source: Ministry for Foreign Affairs, Justice and Culture reaching and improving the prospects of
71
Liechtenstein‘s contribution to the implementation of the SDGs in developing countries

in CHF millions
SD G 1
7 8 SD
G1 G2
SD
7
6 6 S
1
D
G
G
SD
3
5
3
15
SD G
SD G
4
1
0
SDG 13
SD G 5
2
G1
SD
G
SD
6
10 SD
G G
SD 7
SD G
SD G 9 8
the poorest and most vulnerable people in The vast majority of Liechtenstein’s projects
the world. By doing so, Liechtenstein makes make a direct or indirect contribution to
a significant contribution to achieving combating poverty (SDG 1), which also con-
the overarching goal of the 2030 Agenda, tributes to the overarching goal of interna-
“Leave no one behind”. tional solidarity. The focal points of projects
are in the following areas:
In the course of preparing this report,
all existing projects were assessed for their • Primary education and vocational training
impact on the SDGs. Every project was (SDG 4);
evaluated in terms of its impact on the indi- • Promoting sustainable economic growth
vidual SDGs. This analysis has shown that and decent work (SDG 8);
projects financed by Liechtenstein make • Rural development and food security
an overall contribution to the implementa- through sustainable agriculture (SDG 2)
tion of almost all SDGs. The majority of • Protection and promotion of human rights
projects contribute to the implementation and the rule of law (SDG 16);
of several SDGs simultaneously. The chart • Combating irregular migration (SDG 10).
at the top illustrates the priorities of Liech-
tenstein’s international solidarity.
72
Especially with regard to education projects, Multilateral engagement

the positive experiences of the Liechtenstein Liechtenstein has had no armed forces and
educational system can be used. The projects has not been involved in any armed conflicts
will provide partner countries with targeted since 1868. Respect for international law
support in developing their educational infra- and a multilateral system in which the sover-
structure and pedagogical foundations, as eign equality of all states applies form the
well as in improving networking between basis for Liechtenstein’s security and recog-
educational institutions and the private sec- nition at the international level. Liechtenstein
tor in the area of vocational training. believes that global sustainable development
cannot be achieved without constructive
Additionally, there are cross-cutting themes and inclusive multilateralism. Liechtenstein
which are an important component of all has been a member of the UN since 1990
development and aid projects: and considers it to be the central forum for
seeking solutions to common global chal-
• The projects are gender-sensitive and promote lenges and promoting international law and
the equality and empowerment of women; the international rule of law. Global partner-
• The projects promote the inclusion of vulner- ships are essential to resolving global issues.
able groups and social minorities. Liechtenstein is committed to this.
Liechtenstein attained an ODA percentage of Liechtenstein’s engagement focuses on

0.42 in 2016. This has steadily declined since the protection and promotion of human rights,
2012 (0.75 %) as economic output increased. the rule of law, and international law. These
It should be increased in the medium term. issues form the basis for constructive multi-
The geographical priority for international lateralism and collective security Liechten-
solidarity is Africa: stein enjoys a distinguished reputation in
Breakdown of development and aid projects by region
Middle East
5%
Europe International
12% 19%
Asia
4%
South and Central

America Africa
18% 42%
73
the fields of human rights and the rule of for the most serious crimes under
law. In particular, the following Liechtenstein International Law committed in the Syrian
initiatives within the framework of the UN Arab Republic since March 2011 (IIIM);
can be highlighted:
• Code of Conduct regarding Security
• International, Impartial and Independent Council action against genocide, crimes
Mechanism to assist in the investigation against humanity or war crimes.
and prosecution of persons responsible
Official development cooperation

as a percentage of Gross National Income (GNI)
0.80
0.70
0.60
0.50
0.40
0.30
0.20
0.10
0.00
2000
2001
2002
2003
2004
2005
2006
2007
2008
2009
2010
2011
2012
2013
2014
2015
2016
2017
Trend: Decrease Assessment: negative Quelle: Ministry for Foreign Affairs, Justice and Culturen
74
5 Non-state actors and sustainability
Key statements
• The private sector gives high priority to the SDGs and is willing to become more involved;
• There is a call for more work on public relations and stronger networking between the state
and the private sector for the implementation of the SDGs;
• The philanthropic and civil society engagement in financially supporting the SDGs is ten times
higher than the government´s spendings for international solidarity: Over CHF 200 million are
spent on projects abroad.
The implementation of SDGs at the national Results of the consultation

as well as the global level cannot be carried The survey was met with great interest in all
out by states alone. There is a need for signif- areas of the private sector. A total of 40 ques-
icant contribution and behavioural changes tionnaires were submitted by stakeholders.
by states, the private sector, civil society and This underscores the great importance at-
individuals. Broad partnerships are needed. tached to SDGs and sustainability in Liech-
tenstein society and the private sector. Taken
Consultation of non-state actors as a whole, the following conclusions can be
The broadest possible involvement of civil so- drawn from the information obtained:
ciety and, in particular, business is a central
priority for the Liechtenstein Government. • All stakeholders attach great importance to
The implementation process should therefore SDGs and sustainability;
take place in collaboration with the private • The majority of associations and companies
sector and civil society. In the course of pre- see the SDGs as relevant to their strategy.
paring this report, a wide-ranging consulta- Explicit integration of the SDGs into associa-
tion with private actors took place in Liech- tion or corporate strategies does not exist in
tenstein. A survey was sent to a variety of most cases;
actors in industry, the financial sector, com- • All stakeholders are aware of their own re-
merce, philanthropy and civil society. The fol- sponsibility, and that of society as a whole,
lowing questions were in the foreground: for greater sustainability;
• There is widespread demand for closer coop-
• What significance do the SDGs have for the eration between the government and private
economy and society in Liechtenstein, and actors in a structured process;
where are the priorities placed? • SDG implementation progress is considered
• Obtaining an overview of ongoing SDG-relat- good by the majority, but there is also a need
ed activities in Liechtenstein; for action. The private sector’s assessments
• Identifying possibilities for harnessing essentially agree on the areas that the
synergies. government has identified a need for action.
75
5 Non-state actors and sustainability
The SDGs named most frequently were the important with investments. The Liechten-
following: stein Bankers Association is currently
• Actual gender equality (SDG 5); conducting a survey among all member
• Sustainability of the energy supply (SDG 7); banks. This should result in a comprehensive
• Sustainability of mobility (SDG 9); inventory of sustainability issues. Among
• Sustainability of consumption and other things, measures taken to achieve
production (SDG 12); the SDGs at the strategic and corporate man-
• Climate change and environmental agement level, as well as in core business
protection (SDG 13 and 15). areas, are also being polled. The consolidated
results will be available in mid-August 2019.
• The public’s awareness level of the SDGs
is still too low overall, and there is a broad
wish for more awareness raising;
• Particularly regarding the financial
community, the importance of sustainable
investment is increasing.
Positive examples of private engagement

In addition to the findings on the general
significance of the SDGs, a review of the
consultation also revealed some particularly
noteworthy activities by the private sector
in implementing the SDGs domestically and
abroad:
In 2015, Liechtenstein non-profit foundations

spent about 9.5 million Swiss francs on
philanthropic projects in Liechtenstein and
over CHF 200 million on projects abroad.
This clearly surpassed the government’s
commitment;
Civil society organisations (associations)

have founded a “Network for Development
Cooperation” (Netzwerk für Entwicklungs
zusammenarbeit). Members of the network
contribute around CHF 2 million annually
for implementation of the SDGs in developing
countries. The network has also launched
a mapping process within civil society, which
should provide a better overview of existing
commitment and further strengthen the
network of stakeholders;
The Liechtenstein financial community

is increasingly committed to sustainability.
Sustainability criteria are increasingly
76
6 Areas for action in the future
Within the framework of this report, the

level of national implementation of the SDGs
was determined on the basis of the available
information. The resulting challenges and
the need for action in a number of areas were
outlined. Essentially, Liechtenstein can
look back on an exceptionally good level of
implementation for the SDGs, especially
in international comparison.
Despite its generally exceptionally positive

starting position and positive direction,
Liechtenstein will have to take further meas-
ures to achieve greater sustainability. The
government is therefore committed to focus-
ing on the following thematic areas:
• There is currently only a limited amount of

data and there are few indicators available
for the systematic evaluation of the level of
implementation and development of SDGs in
Liechtenstein. The government will study
options for both improving the indicators in
the future and aligning them more closely
with the SDGs;
• Collaboration between the state and the
private sector to implement the SDGs has
already improved. The government is striving
to further intensify and institutionalise
this collaboration in the future;
• Ensuring policy coherence is a major chal-
lenge. This is particularly the case, given
the conflicting objectives between various
SDGs. To achieve this, the government
will increasingly look for suitable instruments
to ensure reasonable balance when prioritis-
ing the individual sustainability goals.
77

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Sustainability in Liechtenstein

Report on the implementation

Design and typesetting

2 Summary and key points 6

3 Implementation process and implementation priorities in Liechtenstein 8

4 Implementation of the individual SDGs 10

SDG 1: End poverty in all its forms everywhere 11

SDG 4: Ensure inclusive and equitable quality education and 20

SDG 8: Promote sustained, inclusive and sustainable economic 37

SDG 9: Build resilient infrastructure, promote inclusive and 44

SDG 10: Reduce inequality within and among countries 48

SDG 12: Ensure sustainable consumption and production patterns 57

SDG 15: Protect, restore and promote sustainable use of terrestrial 65

SDG 17: Strengthen the means of implementation and revitalise 71

5 Non-state actors and sustainability 75

6 Areas for action in the future 77

Sustainable development is a key priority improving sustainability. playing a pioneering

Finally, certain areas have been identified

• Mobility in Liechtenstein is heavily based

Existing data was used to evaluate the

Within the framework of international

The commitment of the private sector

In a detailed analytic process the working

Explanation of the diagram:

• There are no extreme forms of poverty in Liechtenstein; SDG 1 is already

Situation in Liechtenstein mum income level in Liechtenstein. Instead,

Beneficiaries of financial assistance

Trend: Increase, sharp decrease from 2017 to 2018 Assessment: neutral

End hunger, achieve food security

• Nobody goes hungry in Liechtenstein; food security is ensured

• SDG 2 is very well implemented and the trend is positive

Situation in Liechtenstein employed in the agricultural sector in 2016.

Statistical indicators agriculture are having the intended effect.

15.8 16.4 production factors. Accordingly, climate-

Source: National Statistical Office;

• Erosion control measures;

In addition, further specific activities are

• Artificial irrigation of crops;

Area of organically farmed land in Liechtenstein and the EU

27.9 28.2 28.2 28.1 30.5

Trend: Increase Assessment: positive Source: Agricultural statistics (Landwirtschaftsstatistik); Eurostat.

Ensure healthy lives and promote

• Healthcare in Liechtenstein is of a high standard

• Healthcare services are available quickly and to everyone

Statistical indicators Situation in Liechtenstein

With around 350 residents per practising

Life expectancy at birth provide services, also at short notice.

women and 80.6 years for men in 2015.

In 2016, the leading causes of death in Liech-

cases has fluctuated since 2000 at around

Deaths and injuries from

respect to health-related behaviour. Numer-

Total fertility rate

Trend: No significant change Assessment: neutral Source: Registry statistics (Zivilstandsstatistik)

cially among young people.

Trends in health costs

Costs per insured person, per month (mandatory insurance)

Trend: Stabilised since 2013 Assessment: positive

Ensure inclusive and equitable quality education

Situation in Liechtenstein country. The importance attached to edu

Situation in Liechtenstein discrimination based on gender, marital