Provisional inclusion
The definition of refugee in Liechtenstein and Switzerland is interpreted very restrictively. A person seeking asylum must credibly demonstrate that persecution was specifically directed against them personally and that their life and limb are at risk. People displaced by conflict and violence who have not been personally persecuted are therefore often not recognized as refugees in Liechtenstein.
However, people displaced by conflict and violence are also in need of protection. Due to protracted situations of conflict and violence, their need for protection is often of the same nature and duration as that of persons who are granted asylum. They cannot return to their home country because their life and limb are threatened there. Nevertheless, they receive a negative asylum decision with a removal order. However, if the person in question cannot be removed to their home country or country of origin, they are granted temporary admission. This is limited to a maximum of one year and is then extended if the conditions for its issuance are still met. As at December 31, 2024, there were 21 temporarily admitted persons in Liechtenstein. 6 temporarily admitted persons received a residence permit (B) due to their advanced integration.
Liechtenstein and Switzerland are the only countries in Europe that offer temporary admission. In contrast to the subsidiary protection known in most EU countries, it is not a residence status, but merely a substitute measure for the enforcement of deportation and is criticized by the UN Refugee Agency UNHCR. In addition, provisional admission offers poor integration prospects despite long-term residence in Liechtenstein. At the same time, no temporary admission has ever been revoked and the removal order enforced.
Create a positive protection status instead of provisional admission for persons in need of protection who are not recognized as refugees.
