Liechtenstein, Europe

The Principality of Liechtenstein landlocked alpine microstate in Western Europe, bordered by Switzerland and by Austria. The capital of the country is Vaduz. It is the last remnant of the Holy Roman Empire, having been acquired to enable entry to the Imperial Diet. Much of Liechtenstein's terrain is mountainous, making it a winter sports destination, although the country is also known as a tax haven. Many cultivated fields and small farms characterize its landscape both in the north (Unterland) and in the south (Oberland). It is a member of the European Free Trade Agreement and is the smallest German-speaking country in the world. Regarding homosexuality, the culture and the laws are influenced by its two surrounding countries which are liberal regarding gay rights and legislation although there is no identifiable gay scene. Both Vienna and Zurich have lively LGBT communities which tend to attract gay Liechtensteins. Homosexuality was legalized in 1989, though the age of consent was not equalized until 2001. In 2001, the penal code was revised and all discrimination against gays was removed. The Liechtenstein government is expected to introduce a civil union law early 2008. The penal code includes same-sex domestic partners in the definition of 'next of kin'. A gay and lesbian organization, FLay, was founded in 1998 and organizes social activities for GLT people in the triangle Liechtenstein, Vorarlberg (Austria) and the Swiss Rhine Valley.