In RTL Radio’s Interview with constitutional law professor Luc Heuschling on Tuesday, Heuschling suggests Luxembourg's monarchy remains popular due to its perceived pragmatic value, but faces a critical juncture as it balances modern public expectations with its traditional role.

On Tuesday, our colleagues from RTL Radio spoke with Luc Heuschling, a professor of constitutional law at the University of Luxembourg who has researched the monarchy. His comments come amid public support for the institution, with a recent Politmonitor poll showing 69% of respondents in favour.

Professor Heuschling suggested that the monarchy's popularity is linked to its perceived advantages. "The people of Luxembourg are relatively pragmatic. The monarchy has a certain international charm, a certain advantage, and it's an asset, so why should Luxembourg do without it?" he said.

Calls for a "calmer" reign

According to Heuschling, the personal appeal of the royals is crucial. He noted that Grand Duke Henri and Grand Duchess Maria Teresa possessed a distinct charm and "an aura." The focus now, he said, will be on how Hereditary Grand Duke Guillaume and Princess Stéphanie manage this legacy.

"Everyone is hoping for a calmer, less turbulent and less conflict-ridden monarchy", Heuschling stated. He added that the modern Grand Ducal family faces the complex task of being "close to the people" while maintaining enough distance to preserve a necessary "moral standing." He described this balancing act as "squaring the circle for the monarchy."

The "relative modernity" of the monarchy

When asked if the monarchy is modern, Heuschling offered a nuanced view. He acknowledged that, in principle, any monarchy is "non-modern" as there is "nothing democratic about it." The monarch generally remains head of state for longer, whereas in a republic the president tends to be replaced every few years.

However, he assessed Luxembourg's system as "relatively" modern. For instance, the new Constitution provides a mechanism for the monarch to be removed from office. Conversely, the head of state remains "inviolable", or untouchable by prosecution.

Heuschling also clarified procedural norms. The title of Grand Duchess or Grand Duke for the ruler's spouse is not constitutionally guaranteed but can be conferred by the reigning Grand Duke or Grand Duchess. Additionally, Luxembourg does not hold a coronation, but a simple swearing-in ceremony at the Chamber of Deputies.

"In Luxembourg, we have a rather bureaucratic and unceremonious monarchy when it comes to accession to the throne", the constitutional expert concluded.

What will be the lasting memory of Grand Duke Henri's reign?

According to Heuschling, Grand Duke Henri's 25-year reign will leave behind an "ambivalent memory."

The professor placed the Grand Duke within a broader historical context, noting that only a few monarchs stand out vividly in Luxembourg's history. "William I, because he is the creator of our state; among the Nassaus, Marie-Adélaïde, as a negative model; [and] Charlotte, as a positive model", Heuschling commented. "Henri, with Maria Teresa, the couple forming a duo in a sense", will join this group, Heuschling said.

The constitutional expert characterised the Grand Duke's legacy as a mix of progress and friction. On one hand, Henri embodies "a modernisation" and "has opened doors" for the monarchy. On the other hand, his tenure has been marked by "too many conflicts." The prevailing hope for the future, the expert concluded, is that the next period will be "a more peaceful one."