© AFP
The Young Democrats are calling for the legalisation of pepper spray in Luxembourg for self-defence, arguing it could offer protection for vulnerable groups amid rising concerns over public safety.
The Young Democrats, the youth wing of the Democratic Party, demands that pepper spray be legalised in Luxembourg in cases of self-defence. Pepper spray falls under the 'A' weapons category in the Grand Duchy, making it illegal to own or use it. In neighbouring countries Germany and France, however, the use of pepper spray is allowed under certain circumstances.
For example, only animal repellent sprays are legal in Germany, while the use of pepper spray is legal in France from 18 years onwards and in case of self-defence. In light of this, the Young Democrats demand the legalisation of its use from 16 years onwards in cases of self-defence.
In conversation with RTL, spokesperson Melina Fellens stressed the importance of guaranteeing citizens' self-defence capabilities in the absence of police, given the frequent cases of harassment and assault. She makes the case that pepper spray could prove to be a means of self-defence for vulnerable citizens, including the elderly, women, and people with physical disabilities.
Pepper spray does not generally have lethal consequences and, in this sense, can serve as an effective means against insecurity in daily life. However, Chief Superintendent of the Grand Ducal Police Tim Pauly provides different advice in case of assault, rather stressing the importance of drawing attention to oneself by screaming and seeking help from other passersby, which may intimidate the assailant.
Public opinion on the issue seems divided, as some people interviewed by RTL expressed their agreement with the demands to legalise pepper spray use, while others emphasised their preference for mandatory self-defence courses and other measures to ensure security in public space.
Free self-defence courses have been organised by the Grand Ducal Police for 15 years with the aim of improving people's self-defence skills. Nevertheless, director of penitential and criminal law within the Justice Ministry Laurent Thyes clarifies that the use of pepper spray does not necessarily entail a penalty, as long as its use can be linked to self-defence.
Yet, owning a pepper spray could still be penalised.
Nevertheless, as long as pepper spray remains illegal, its use in any other case might entail a fine ranging from €25,000 to €500,000, or a prison sentence of three to eight years.
