In a recent interview with our colleagues from RTL Radio on Tuesday morning, Tania Mousel, a candidate in the European elections representing the Left Party (déi Lénk), shared her perspective on the need for resolute re-evaluation within the European Union.

"We're not solely focused on securing a seat. We'd already be happy if we'd see a gradual increase in our percentage and see that we are convincing voters with our left-wing ideas," Mousel stated during her conversation with RTL Radio.

The Left Party, alongside the Luxembourg Communist Party (KPL), is the only party "clearly opposing neo-capitalism and neo-liberalism within the European Union." Mousel criticised the Luxembourg Socialist Workers' Party (LSAP) and the Green Party (déi gréng) for their perceived inclination towards compromise, resulting in what she perceives as a dilution of leftist policies.

The youngest list of candidates

With an average age of around 30, the Left Party boasts the youngest candidate list among the 13 competing in the European elections in Luxembourg. Mousel highlighted this as a deliberate decision, emphasising that it is the younger generation who will ultimately have to deal with the consequences of current issues. She believes that the presence of many young individuals on the party's list may inspire additional youth support for the Left Party. Mousel stressed the importance of raising the profile of young politicians in the political landscape.

No unconditional optimism about Europe

"We obviously don't want to leave the EU, but it's important to take a critical look at the European Union," Mousel said.

Criticism from the Left Party is directed towards the EU's prioritisation of the economy over human welfare. Mousel highlighted the EU's emphasis on maintaining price stability and facilitating trade at the expense of solidarity and addressing people's hardships.

Mousel also criticised the EU's foreign policies, suggesting they have negative repercussions globally. Additionally, she raised concerns about what she described as "abusive" trade agreements with other regions.

A call for EU reform

Tackling climate change stands as a top priority for Mousel and the Left Party. She stressed the necessity of rethinking the EU's approach to effectively address this pressing issue.

Regarding defence, the Left Party is "critical of NATO" and opposes the remilitarisation of Europe, advocating instead for a common European army focused solely on defence.

Mousel argued for substantial tax increases on large multinational corporations and wealthy individuals, stating that individual consumer sacrifices alone would not suffice.

The Left Party proposes a comprehensive overhaul of EU policies, spanning defence, trade, and migration. No surprise either: when it comes to the right of veto, the Left Party is calling for the principle of unanimity on tax issues to be abolished.