What happens when a Monarch, with veto power, refuses to sign into law a bill passed by Parliament that violates his conscience? Well, to get around the problem, parliaments generally strip the Monarch of his or her veto powers.
In Luxembourg, such a situation has taken place. The Grand Duke opposed new euthanasia laws passed by Parliament and refused to sign them. So, his veto powers were taken from him and the law was passed without needing his signature. Something he seems to have agreed to and indeed suggested, as the Time Magazine article states.
Interestingly enough, now I know that the last absolute Monarch in Europe is the Pope.
Related Links:
Luxembourg's Monarch Steps Back On Euthanasia Bill ~ Time
Defending the Pro-Life Monarch of Luxembourg ~ Catholic Online
In Luxembourg, such a situation has taken place. The Grand Duke opposed new euthanasia laws passed by Parliament and refused to sign them. So, his veto powers were taken from him and the law was passed without needing his signature. Something he seems to have agreed to and indeed suggested, as the Time Magazine article states.
Duke Henri refused to sign a bill to legalize euthanasia for the terminally ill. The proposal, which would make Luxembourg one of the few countries to give terminal patients the right to die, was approved earlier this year by Parliament. But the monarch, a devout Catholic, says "reasons of conscience" prevented him from making it law. (Read about the fight to legalize euthanasia in the U.S..)It used to be that a Catholic Monarch had as his duty to rule for the good of the people, and be answerable to God if he failed. But it seems even a Monarch cannot stand in the way of his subjects desire to destroy themselves. Free will and all that.
The Duke's stance is a strong nod to the current Pope, who has made the struggle against the secularization and "de-Christianization" of Europe amongst the central tenants of his papacy. Unlike the Pope, though, the Luxembourg monarch must face the realities of democracy. Aware that it would be the first time since 1912 that a Duke or Duchess of Luxembourg has defied the will of the elected government, Henri called on Parliament to change the Constitution to strip him of the power to approve laws. On Thursday, the Luxembourg Parliament voted overwhelmingly to approve the measure, which will become law on a second reading in the coming days. In the future, the reigning Duke or Duchess will only sign decrees to officially publish or "promulgate" pre-approved laws.
Interestingly enough, now I know that the last absolute Monarch in Europe is the Pope.
Related Links:
Luxembourg's Monarch Steps Back On Euthanasia Bill ~ Time
Defending the Pro-Life Monarch of Luxembourg ~ Catholic Online
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