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Michel Reckinger, head of Luxembourg's main business lobby, has urged the public to boycott Saturday's union-led protest, accusing labour leaders of spreading misinformation and trying to stir government opposition.
Michel Reckinger, president of the Union of Luxembourg Enterprises (UEL), has urged citizens not to participate in a protest planned by the unions OGBL and LCGB this Saturday, accusing them of spreading alarmism and working to incite opposition against the current government. Speaking on RTL Radio on Wednesday morning, Reckinger said the unions are using "half-truths" to stir public outrage, particularly by falsely claiming that wages and purchasing power are under attack.
In fact, purchasing power has been strengthened over the past 18 months, he said.
He warned that the unions are not acting on behalf of workers but are instead seeking to retain influence after losing political standing. "They used to sit at the centre of power, and now they don't. That's what this is really about", he said, referencing past ministers with OGBL ties.
Reckinger criticised the unions for walking away from negotiations before talks began and refusing social dialogue. He also accused OGBL of left-wing populism, pushing for an alternative socio-economic model. "And I don't want that, and neither do the people", decried Reckinger. "And that is why I say, don't go to the protest on Saturday. Rather, go for a walk in the forest with Mr Frieden."
Read also: Trade unions mobilise for national demonstration on Saturday
Turning to pension reform, he stressed the importance of a planned meeting on 9 July between the government, employer groups, and unions. Though not a formal Tripartite, Reckinger said UEL will attend and hopes unions do the same. "I call on the unions to act responsibly", he said, warning the current proposals are insufficient to protect the pension system for future generations.
Reckinger also dismissed the Council of State's recent support for union positions on Sunday work and working time flexibility, saying its role is legal review – not political commentary. Their opinion is just "one among many", he added.
