"We have lived through almost two years marked by the pandemic. Just as we have never given up before, we must now not allow ourselves to be discouraged."

This is one of the messages that Grand Duke Henri shares with the population in his address on Christmas Eve.

He stresses that a collective effort is required, that everyone must assume their responsibility, and that solidarity remains essential. The head of state also points out that throughout its history, Luxembourg has proven several times that it can stand together and that its people are there for each other.

The Grand Duke is firmly convinced that vaccination is the only way to get a grip on the pandemic. He acknowledges that, of course, in a democracy, everyone has a right to their own opinion, and everyone is at liberty to choose whether they want to be vaccinated or not. However, the Grand Duke stresses that it is important to realise that one's own freedom ends where the freedom of another begins – a freedom which includes the safety and health of everybody.

We must be able to speak openly about controversial topics in our society, with tolerance and respect for different opinions, Grand Duke Henri says, pointing out that democracy means respecting the decisions of the majority. Trying to change this through violent means is unacceptable and the wrong approach. Violence, according to the head of state, is never a solution and will not be tolerated in a state under the rule of law such as Luxembourg.

Besides the pandemic, the Grand Duke also addresses climate protection, which he stresses is especially close to his heart. He speaks about the disastrous floods in mid-July, stating that they were another grim reminder that urgent action is needed.

Luxembourg has always been able to interpret challenges as new opportunities. By doing so, the country always managed to reinvent itself. We are a society that lives diversity, openness, and tolerance, the head of state says. Luxembourg continues to actively participate in the efforts to reach targets such as CO2 neutrality by 2050. Initiatives from the private sector play an important role in this effort too. It takes pioneer spirit to make the world cleaner, more efficient, more equitable, and more sustainable.