On Monday morning, Grand Duke Henri delivered his final National Day address at the Philharmonie — a deeply emotional moment for the head of state, his wife Grand Duchess Maria Teresa, and the audience alike.
At the start of his speech on Monday morning during the official National Day ceremony, Grand Duke Henri declared: “This year’s National Day is filled with emotion and gratitude for me.”
The meaning was immediately clear to those present in the Philharmonie, as well as to viewers tuning in via livestream – this marked the Grand Duke’s final National Day address.
After 25 years as Head of State, Grand Duke Henri will step down in early October, with his eldest son, Prince Guillaume, set to assume the role.
Trust and support
The accession to the throne was therefore the central theme of Grand Duke Henri’s speech. Reflecting on his 25 years of service since being sworn in, he said he had carried his title “with willpower, loyalty, respect […] and the aim to serve the country.”
He was not alone on this journey: “By my side was my wife, the Grand Duchess, who supported me throughout with her love, her commitment, and her sensitivity.” Through her humanitarian work, she embodied the values of solidarity and compassion – core elements of the Grand Ducal identity.
The Grand Duke acknowledged that over the years, they experienced many beautiful moments, but also faced significant challenges. In difficult times, public support proved essential: “Time and again, we were strengthened by your trust and support in carrying out our duties,” he said.
Luxembourg, he continued, has grown into a modern, dynamic, and cosmopolitan country while remaining anchored in its roots and values. “This harmony between tradition and innovation was built by all of us, together,” Grand Duke Henri underlined, “and we will continue to uphold it in the future.”
Society and politics
In his speech, Grand Duke Henri praised both the resilience of society and the leadership of successive governments over the past quarter-century. “That we were able to overcome the financial crisis, the pandemic, and international upheavals was only possible because we stood together – in solidarity, with optimism, and with governments that led our country with both foresight and groundedness,” he stated.
He also reflected on how much Luxembourg had evolved since he assumed the throne in 2000:
“The economy became more diverse, a university was founded, research was intensified, and we had the courage and vision to invest in space technologies, data innovation, and supercomputers.”
But progress, he stressed, is not only measured by economic or scientific achievements. “Environmental protection is essential to preserving our well-being and quality of life,” he emphasised.
Maintaining a balance between economic development and ecological responsibility is vital, he said, as is Luxembourg’s commitment to international cooperation:
“We have strengthened our role on the European and global stage, and spoken out clearly for peace, cooperation, and international justice.”
'Genuine love and commitment to Luxembourg'
In his address, Grand Duke Henri spoke candidly about the emotions surrounding his upcoming abdication:
"Dear all, this National Day is particularly moving for me, as it will be the last I celebrate as head of state. After much reflection, I have decided to abdicate on 3 October, allowing my son, Prince Guillaume, to accede to the throne."
He continued by expressing full confidence in his successor:
"Guillaume has demonstrated unwavering commitment, wisdom, and a deep connection to our country over the years. He is ready, and willing, to take on this responsibility. At his side stands Princess Stéphanie, who will approach her new role with heart and conviction."
The Grand Duke concluded on a heartfelt note: "I am truly grateful that they both share a genuine love and commitment to Luxembourg."
He is convinced they are deserving of the population's trust.
Gratitude and an everlasting sense of duty
As he concluded his address, Grand Duke Henri offered words of deep gratitude, speaking also on behalf of Grand Duchess Maria Teresa.
“Today, together with the Grand Duchess, I thank you from the bottom of my heart. Thank you for your trust. Thank you for your support. Thank you for the many encounters, the honest exchanges, and the shared moments. All of that has enriched my mission and my life immensely.”
The Grand Duke placed particular emphasis on his faith in the younger generation:
“You are the energy, the strength, and the hope of tomorrow. With your creativity, your sense of responsibility, and your openness to the world, you will continue to move this country forward.”
He concluded with a firm reaffirmation of duty, and a declaration of enduring love for Luxembourg:
"Dear all, I will fulfill my duty until the very last day of my reign: with conviction, devotion, and commitment. Yes, on October 3rd, I will abdicate. But for the rest of my life, I will remain deeply connected to our home country."
He added that his love for Luxembourg – his homeland – would remain steadfast until the end of his days.
As he delivered these moving words, the audience at the Philharmonie responded with prolonged applause. The Grand Duchess appeared visibly moved – perhaps even holding back tears – and she likely wasn’t the only one.
