"The state itself has been driving up [housing] prices"

As part of this series, the venue for the interview is selected by the guest, and Bettel chose the picturesque Corniche, behind the former media service building, as the backdrop.

Describing it as "the most beautiful balcony in Europe," Bettel revealed his fondness for this spot, which offers a breathtaking view stretching from the central railway station over the Grund to Kirchberg.

It is a place he often brings esteemed guests, ranging from heads of state to top executives of international corporations, to showcase the country's blend of modernity, tradition, and historical charm. For him, the Corniche represents "one of the most beautiful corners in Luxembourg."

As the country's Prime Minister, Bettel's responsibilities keep him both domestically and internationally occupied. Despite his extensive travels, he admits there's little time for personal exploration.

The life of a head of government is often characterised by an imbalance between work and personal life, leaving little opportunity to fully immerse in the beauty and diversity of any one place.

Work-life balance and arguments at home

When the concept of a 36-hour workweek arises, Bettel quips that he, along with many others, would practically be on midweek holidays, if it were introduced. "But I like doing what I do, so I'm not complaining. And if there is a lot of work, or a lot of stress… if you like doing it, it's not stress. It's still pleasure," Bettel says.

Nevertheless, striking a work-life balance remains challenging for the Prime Minister in his everyday life. Consequently, he sometimes gets into arguments with his husband over this matter. When seeking relaxation, Bettel turns to reading, particularly biographies or works from author Mary Higgins Clark, while on holiday.

Recent findings from the Quality of Work Index indicate that 56% of Luxembourg's full-time employees desire reduced working hours.

Despite this desire, the DP lead candidate remains steadfast in his stance, citing that granting this wish does not align with the current labour market's demands, given the existing shortage of workers. Instead, he advocates for flexibility as a solution, which he believes would benefit both employees and companies alike.

Bettel elaborates on the advantages of flexibility, recognising that certain industries experience fluctuations in demand throughout the year. Embracing flexibility would enable companies to adapt to these changes seamlessly. He stresses that this approach aligns with the interests of businesses, making it a win-win scenario for all parties involved.

Housing: "The state itself has been driving up prices"

The issue of housing stands out as the prime minister's biggest political regret over the past legislative period.

Xavier Bettel takes responsibility for the situation, acknowledging that various factors, including the government, parties, private sector, and municipalities, have contributed to the challenges. In light of this, he advocates for a fresh approach, emphasising the need for substantial changes.

Xavier Bettel has been head of government for almost ten years. In the first legislative period, the DP was responsible for housing, before the Green Party took over the Ministry of Housing in the second legislative period.

He believes that actions must go beyond mere discussions, with significant investments being made to address the crisis. However, he stresses that alternative models must also be explored to find a comprehensive solution.

One such model could be the establishment of a housing fund that allows both the state and private individuals to invest. In addition, Bettel suggests engaging with municipalities to reassess the General Development Plans (PAGs) and collaborating with companies to encourage the construction of flats for their employees.

Recognising the complexity of the problem, he acknowledges that no single solution exists to rapidly resolve the issue.

A recent report by the Competition Authority highlights how developers have greatly profited over the years without a proportional increase in housing supply. While Bettel opposes market regulation, he advocates for state intervention. He believes that boosting housing supply will create a balance in the principle of supply and demand, ultimately leading to price reductions.

Bettel also admits that the state's actions have contributed to driving up prices, particularly through selling land to the highest bidder without considering the long-term implications.

"I don't know any developer who has Red Cross or Caritas tendencies. They want to make money," Bettel stresses, adding that the government stopped selling plots at inflated prices 6-7 years ago.

Climate crisis: don't impose anything if not necessary

As the world faces soaring temperatures, devastating forest fires, and alarming floods, scientists are closely monitoring the heated North Atlantic and the slow reforming of ice in Antarctica during winter.

The Prime Minister acknowledges the gravity of the situation, realising that inaction could lead to disastrous consequences. "I am aware that if we don't do anything now, we will drive straight into a wall," Bettel responds when questioned about the climate crisis.

Luxembourg's government has implemented several measures to combat the crisis, including free public transport, subsidies for photovoltaics, energy renovations, and support for electric cars and bicycles. While a CO2 tax was introduced, the government has primarily relied on incentive-based policies thus far. The question arises whether these incentives alone will suffice in addressing the climate challenge.

The Prime Minister stresses his preference for not imposing strict measures on the population unless absolutely necessary. However, he observes that more people are willingly embracing eco-friendly practices, as evidenced by increased energy and water conservation.

Even at his own residence, Bettel and his husband have made efforts to save electricity and practice recycling and have even received money back from their electricity supplier.

"And if I can walk, I like to walk. However, the police don't always agree with that…", the Prime Minister jokes.

3 Questions for… Xavier Bettel

Plagiarism affair

"I wasn't proud of it, and I didn't hide that fact," Bettel says while reflecting on his plagiarism affair.
In October 2021, the online platform Reporter brought to light that Xavier Bettel had cheated during his student days, specifically in his thesis for the 3rd university cycle.

In response to the revelation, the DP politician took the initiative to voluntarily return his additional diploma, despite the University of Nancy proposing he simply add footnotes.

"I don't care, it's over, finished! I have accepted my responsibility. I was stricter with myself than others might have been," Bettel says.

A passion for Luxembourg

Xavier Bettel maintains an air of secrecy about his preferred coalition, but he is more forthcoming when discussing potential roles at the EU level.

"I have already been offered the Council a few times, as well as other posts. But I was recently offered the Council again," he reveals.

While such appointments could be "good for the ego," he emphasises that personal gain holds no appeal for him. His primary focus is on continuing to serve as Luxembourg's head of government for another five years. "If I can remain Prime Minister of Luxembourg, I will remain Prime Minister of Luxembourg. And then I will stay for the five years," Bettel declares.

In light of the 2015 referendum proposal to limit government posts to two mandates, Bettel acknowledges that the idea aimed at fostering renewal in politics. However, with 80% of voters rejecting the proposal, he acknowledges the clear message from the public. "But truth be told I am happy to continue," Xavier Bettel admits.