Debate about compulsory military service in Luxembourg 'unavoidable', says Minister of Defence

On Saturday afternoon, Minister for Gender Equality, Diversity, Mobility, and Defence Yuriko Backes discussed key issues in an interview with our colleagues from RTL Radio.

Speaking on gender equality, Backes highlighted that significant progress is still needed. She pointed out that women in the EU earn 13% less per hour than men, and pensions for women are 29% lower than those for men. Additionally, women are more frequently subjected to physical violence, and men hold 75% of ministerial positions across the EU. "There is still much to be done in terms of equality," Backes stated, underscoring its importance for fostering tolerance and respect in society.

"The ADR's rhetoric scares me"

Backes expressed concern over the heated debates sparked by two petitions on LGBTQIA+ education in schools during the summer. She emphasised that the issue lies not with the LGBTQIA+ community, but with the prejudice, stereotypes, and discrimination its members face.

The minister defended the importance of sex education in schools, explaining that it helps children understand and feel comfortable with their bodies. While some guidance comes from home, schools provide a safe space for children to ask questions and get accurate information, she stressed. Backes rejected claims that sex education constitutes "indoctrination" or that teachers are attempting to influence students' identities. When asked if she perceived the Alternative Democratic Reform Party's (ADR) stance as political hate speech, she responded affirmatively, saying, "The ADR's rhetoric scares me."

Addressing the issue of domestic violence, Backes noted that the statistics clearly show the need for action. Her ministry is working on establishing a 24/7 central contact point for victims of violence. This service, she explained, will complement existing support structures and offer comprehensive assistance, including medical, legal, and psychological help.

DP party membership "not decisive" for job appointments

"Parity is indispensable to me," stated Yuriko Backes, emphasising the importance of gender balance in her work. She acknowledged that parity has not yet been achieved within the government, a fact she regrets. Backes also stressed the need for gender equality in the European Commission, noting that Commission President Ursula Von der Leyen requested each country to propose both a male and female candidate. While Luxembourg could have followed this recommendation, Backes explained that it was ultimately the Christian Social People's Party’s (CSV) decision to appoint the commissioner. "Christophe Hansen is a good choice," she remarked, but as Minister for Gender Equality, she cannot overlook that many EU member states failed to propose female candidates. "I believe it's crucial for the Commission to be as gender-equal as possible, reflecting the society we live in," Backes said.

When asked about the recent appointments in the Ministry of Mobility, where two of four newly created directorate positions were filled by Democratic Party (DP) members Jean-Paul Lickes and Gilio Fonck, Backes dismissed suggestions that party affiliation played a key role. "No, party membership is not decisive for me," she clarified. Both individuals, she explained, were chosen based on professional trust and their qualifications, not their political affiliations.

Public works: Maintaining high investment

Backes also touched on the Ministry of Public Works, which has been allocated a budget of €1.78 billion, alongside €1.2 billion for capital expenditures and €1.67 billion in special funds. While Minister of Finance Gilles Roth mentioned the possibility of cutting costs by putting a greater focus on renting, Backes emphasised that she does not intend to reduce spending on construction projects. "The country needs to be prepared for the future, and that requires investment in necessary infrastructure," she said. Although the sums are large, Backes assured that the funds would be managed wisely, aiming to adhere as closely as possible to the allocated budget. In total, construction and mobility projects will account for around 13% of the national budget.

Is the Schuman Building becoming a facility for refugees?

The future use of the Schuman Building in Kirchberg was another topic of discussion. Information obtained by RTL suggests that there are plans to renovate the building to accommodate 500 asylum seekers. Minister Yuriko Backes confirmed that the building had indeed been allocated to the National Reception Office (ONA), but she indicated that alternative solutions might need to be considered. Backes noted the building's historical significance, including its old parliamentary hemicycle and plenary hall, which should be preserved. Consequently, a request has been submitted to the Ministry of Culture to place the building under a preservation order. As it stands, the building is not suitable for housing refugees, but finding appropriate accommodation for asylum seekers remains a priority, Backes said.

Mobility: New survey and no generalised 30 km/h zones

On the topic of mobility, Backes highlighted the need for offering attractive alternatives and providing people with choices. To better understand current behaviours and needs, a new mobility survey will be launched, as the last one was conducted seven years ago. "With the economy and the country having grown, habits have likely changed," Backes explained.

Regarding the implementation of generalised 30 km/h speed zones in towns, Backes acknowledged that while they can be beneficial in some areas, they may not be appropriate everywhere. She believes that municipalities should have the authority to make these decisions.

Backes also addressed issues with public transport services, including the Mobi-Bus and the On-Demand Transport for Persons with Reduced Mobility (ADAPTO). An audit of the Mobi-Bus is underway, with results expected in November. Improvements have been made to the app, which has received positive feedback, she noted. An ADAPTO survey revealed that while 70% of users were satisfied with the service, issues with punctuality and driver performance were identified. In response, targeted driver training is planned, and additional staff are being hired for the call centre to improve service accessibility.

Additionally, Backes announced that a new taxi law is being developed to enhance the attractiveness of taxi services in the country.

The minister also mentioned that the results of the study on expanding the N7 to four lanes are forthcoming. In Backes' view, the question remains whether the expansion is intended to accommodate more cars or to improve road safety. This remains a priority for her, given the ongoing issue with serious traffic accidents.

Discussion on conscription "cannot be avoided"

Minister Yuriko Backes expressed concern about the possibility of conflict affecting Luxembourg, stating that she cannot assure her children that there will never be a war in the country again. This uncertainty, she admitted, "worries" her. Backes emphasised the importance of commemorations of the Second World War, noting that peace cannot be taken for granted, as evidenced by the ongoing war in Ukraine.

She underscored the need for Luxembourg to support Ukraine and show solidarity with its partners. According to Backes, investing in Luxembourg's defence and collective security is crucial.

Regarding the issue of conscription, Backes stated that the topic "cannot be avoided." Although the coalition agreement does not mandate discussions on this matter, she pointed out that debates in neighbouring countries indicate that the issue will need to be addressed eventually. The minister clarified, however, that there are no immediate plans to implement conscription; current efforts are focused on recruitment.

"Boots on the ground is the true expression of solidarity, not just drones or money," Backes stated.