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As lawmakers examined an external review of the University of Luxembourg, masked protesters appeared outside the Chamber of Deputies, denouncing what they described as an "alarming situation" within the institution.
On Tuesday afternoon in the Chamber of Deputies, as the Commission for Higher Education, Research and Digitalisation reviewed an external evaluation of the University of Luxembourg by an international research and consulting organisation, a masked protest took place outside the building.
A small group of demonstrators wearing Anonymous masks – a symbol often linked to resistance against oppression – displayed banners reading "Yes to student housing, no to autocracy" and "Yes to academic excellence, no to harassment".
They also handed out flyers describing what they called "an alarming situation behind the scenes at the University," accusing its leadership of abusive practices and raising concerns about its educational mission. The protesters claim the University’s educational mission is being undermined, with negative consequences for both students and employers in Luxembourg.
They allege that staff have resigned, requested transfers, or filed complaints over power abuse and harassment. Other accusations include interference in the University’s internal democratic elections.
These comments also come amid ongoing complaints about the University’s housing situation.
RTL has reached out to the University of Luxembourg and Ministry of Higher Education & Research for more comments.
The Ministry of Higher Education pointed out that "the University is firmly committed to ensuring a safe environment in which breaches of the law can be reported without fear of retaliation" and that it has adopted a "whistleblowing policy" guaranteeing a "secure reporting process and the protection of individuals who report an actual or suspected violation of national or directly applicable European law by the University."
The Ministry added that it could not provide further comment, as anonymous allegations do not fall within its prerogative and advised RTL to contact the University of Luxembourg.
In response, the University of Luxembourg "accepts that problems arise" but that it had spent "considerable effort over the past years to optimize processes and procedures, putting into place structures to ensure that conflicts which are arising are dealt with rigorously and with care."
A university spokesperson added that clear protections have been in place since 2022 under the Collective Bargaining Agreement, and that multiple support channels are available to anyone within the university who feels harassed.
Regarding student housing, the university stated that it is actively working to expand affordable accommodation for students.
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