Grand Duke Henri reflects on 25 years of reign in emotional Christmas speech, announces succession date

Grand Duke Henri addressed his fellow citizens with great emotion on 24 December 2024, delivering his traditional Christmas speech. "This is the last time I will give the Christmas speech as head of state," he reminded the audience.

Prince Guillaume, who has held the position of Lieutenant Representative since 8 October, is preparing for his forthcoming ascension to the throne. With a touch of mischief, the Grand Duke decided to "keep the suspense a little longer," announcing that he would reveal the date of the transfer of power only at the end of his speech.

Reflecting on his nearly 25 years of reign, the Grand Duke said, "It is with great humility and profound gratitude" that he looks back on this time. "It has been a period during which Luxembourg has undergone great changes, and I am proud to have been able to, together with the Grand Duchess, walk this path with you."

The Grand Duke described a quarter of a century marked by numerous challenges, opportunities, and conflicts, which "forced us to think and question ourselves. But they also strengthened our sense of belonging to the same nation. We have remained united in making Luxembourg an even more welcoming place, within a sustainable environment."

He emphasised that Luxembourg has worked "to ensure that none of us is left behind, knowing that the strength, and even the future, of our society lies in its ability to bring people together and demonstrate solidarity."

The greatest challenge is still ahead, argues the Grand Duke

Climate change is "probably the greatest challenge of the future," the Grand Duke has declared, also highlighting "geopolitical tensions, wars, and economic upheavals" as significant concerns. He further underlined the importance of remembering history: "The liberation of Auschwitz 80 years ago shows us the abyss of cruelty embedded in us if we deny what is inherent to humanity – defending our fundamental human rights. Let us never forget this."

While reaffirming that "the Grand Duke is above political parties and does not interfere in political debates," he clarified, "nothing prevents me from speaking out when the fundamental interests of the country and its citizens are at stake." He continued, "This is what I have strived to do over the past 25 years, paying particular attention from the outset to the diversity of our population, the need for coexistence, and sustainability in all areas of our society, so that we can leave our children a healthier country."

It is worth noting that in 2008, the Grand Duke refused to sign the euthanasia law, a decision that posed a moral dilemma for him, sparking a political crisis and considerable controversy.

"Luxembourg is an extraordinary country. It is a crossroads of cultures, languages, and ways of life – a place for dialogue and exchange, where people from all over the world coexist with the Luxembourgers. This solidarity is our strength. I know well that this does not necessarily happen on its own. This unique model in Europe requires daily effort, but it is worth it."

Special attention for people of foreign origin

“We can be proud of what we have accomplished so far. This is certainly the message I hear from many fellow citizens of foreign origin whom I meet during my travels across Luxembourg,” reports the Grand Duke. He highlights Luxembourg's commitment to promoting "multilateralism and dialogue between nations, defending our core values of democracy, freedom, and human rights beyond our borders."

A country, he continues, is not an abstract concept: “Luxembourg is all of you who live and work here, who embody it. Side by side, with each other. You are what makes Luxembourg so special. That is why I want to say a big thank you to all of you from here. Thank you to those who work every day for this country, whether Luxembourgers, non-Luxembourgers, residents, or cross-border workers, paid or volunteers. Your contribution is essential for the prosperity of our society and a guarantee for the future of our country.”

Looking ahead, the Grand Duke sends a message of hope for the future: “The year 2025 is approaching quickly, offering new opportunities to advance our vision of Luxembourg: a country that relies on diversity and innovation, that invests in education and research, and that takes responsibility in Europe and the world. A country where citizens come first. We are a nation that never stands still in the face of adversity. We face challenges with confidence and courage.”

He expresses optimism for the next generation, stating that it "will assume responsibility for a hopefully more peaceful and sustainable world. For many in my generation, the time has now come to step back and retire. It’s a natural process with its own reasoning, and it applies to me as well.”

It is at this moment that he reveals, "The Grand Duchess and I are happy to announce that Prince Guillaume and Princess Stéphanie will be our successors starting 3 October 2025."

"I know they will contribute with all their strength to the well-being of the country. In this sense, the Grand Duchess, Prince Guillaume, Princess Stéphanie, and all our children, we wish you a very Merry Christmas and all the best for the New Year,” concludes the Grand Duke.