Liechtenstein Loyalty Association Explained

Liechtenstein Loyalty Association
Native Name:Heimattreue Vereinigung Liechtenstein
Leader:Emanuel Konrad (January 1939–March 1939)
Alois Schädler (March 1939–July 1940)
Richard Meier (July 1940–1945)
Ideology:Nonpartisan
Anti-fascism
Headquarters:Schaan, Liechtenstein
Country:Liechtenstein
Abbreviation:HVL
Founder:Emanuel Konrad
Native Name Lang:de

The Liechtenstein Loyalty Association (German: Heimattreue Vereinigung Liechtenstein, HVL) was a nonpartisan organisation designed to oppose the German National Movement in Liechtenstein (VBDL) and preserve Liechtenstein's independence during World War II.

History

The association was formed on 24 January 1939 by a contingent of 21 men under the leadership of entrepreneur Emanuel Konrad who founded an organizing committee designed to counteract National socialist activities in Liechtenstein, particularly that of the German National Movement in Liechtenstein (VBDL).[1]

After the VBDL attempted a coup on 24 March 1939, the association launched a signature campaign to reaffirm Liechtenstein's independence in addition to a commitment to Franz Joseph II and the country's continued economic and political alignment towards Switzerland.[2] This campaigned was signed by 2492 people in Liechtenstein.[3] From July 1940, it was led by Richard Meier and formed the Liechtenstein Homeland Loyalty Association in reaction to the VBDL reforming under the leadership of Alfons Goop, which showed itself to be vigilant in counteracting their operations.

The organisation was quietly disbanded in 1945 after threat from Nazi Germany came to an end and the VBDL disbanded.[4]

Notes and References

  1. Web site: Marxer . Wilfried . 31 December 2011 . Heimattreue Vereinigung Liechtenstein . 17 November 2023 . . de.
  2. Web site: Büchel . Donat . 31 December 2011 . Anschlussputsch . 14 November 2023 . . de.
  3. News: 3 April 1939 . Ninety-Five Per Cent of Voters in Liechtenstein Reject Union with Nazis . 29 January 2024 . Lawrence Journal-World.
  4. Book: [[Peter Geiger]] . Kriegszeit. Liechtenstein 1939 bis 1945 . . 2010 . Vaduz . 846 . de.