This report was submitted in support of the Independent Expert on the effects of foreign debt’s upcoming visit to the Principality of Liechtenstein. The document details Liechtenstein’s contribution to global financial secrecy, collaboration and role in the development of international tax transparency measures, and the human rights implications of Liechtenstein’s policies.
Key findings
- Despite its small size, Liechtenstein remains a stronghold for financial secrecy. Its secrecy score on Tax Justice Network indices has been consistently higher than the global average and has remained in the upper range of global scores since 2009.
- Liechtenstein has not fully supported international efforts to create an inclusive global forum for international tax cooperation at the United Nations.
- Liechtenstein’s policies of financial secrecy have negative effects on human rights both within the Principality of Liechtenstein and on other States abroad.
Key recommendations
- Liechtenstein should undertake a thorough evaluation of the impacts that its financial and tax policies have on fundamental human rights both at home and abroad, especially in regards to the most vulnerable populations and take measures to redress retrogressive policies.
Additional resources
Tax Justice Network, Liechtenstein country profile
Corporate Tax Haven Index 2021, Liechtenstein profile
Financial Secrecy Index 2022, Liechtenstein profile
Call for submissions
UN Independent Expert on foreign debt and human rights