Luxembourg's two major trade unions, OGBL and LCGB, are preparing for a large-scale demonstration on Saturday against the government's proposed pension reforms.
David Angel from OGBL hopes the government will "backtrack on the pension reform." In addition to the pension reform, the unions are calling for the immediate withdrawal of two draft laws – one that would allow Sunday work and another that seeks to increase flexibility in working hours for the retail sector.
The unions aim to bring thousands onto the streets for the protest. “We’re confident we’ll fill our buses. Things are looking promising”, said LCGB General Secretary Francis Lomel during one of the final preparatory meetings, attended by around 100 delegates.
The LCGB estimates that around 10,000 participants – including both residents and cross-border workers – will take part in the demonstration. According to union leaders, the issues at hand are of concern to a wide segment of the population.
They also stressed that joint mobilisation by OGBL and LCGB has significantly boosted outreach efforts. Over recent weeks, union activists have been stationed at train stations, supermarkets, workplaces, and along highways to distribute flyers and inform the public. The campaign has been visible and widespread, targeting areas with heavy foot traffic.
Preparations have also intensified behind the scenes. RTL was given a glimpse of the unions' headquarters ahead of the march, where teams have been busy producing banners, posters, placards, and flags. These will be displayed at strategic locations to ensure the demonstration date is impossible to miss – both in Luxembourg and across its borders.
The protest will kick off at 11am on Saturday at the Luxembourg City main train station, proceeding down Avenue de la Liberté and culminating at Place Guillaume II. Further information, including transport tips and logistical details, is available on the union front's website.
