Anne Calteux, currently the representative of the European Commission in Luxembourg, is set to transition into a new role within the Luxembourg State Ministry this autumn.
After five years in her current post, Calteux will become director of the Service for Media, Connectivity, and Digital Policy, officially assuming her new responsibilities on 1 December. Her last working day at the Commission will be 31 August.
A successor for Calteux at the European Commission Representation has yet to be appointed. Although internal candidates have come forward, no successful match was found, prompting the Commission to advertise the position externally.
Calteux, who has not participated in the selection process, expects a decision may be made during the autumn. In the meantime, her deputy is serving as acting head.
Looking ahead to her new role, Calteux expressed enthusiasm for the diverse and complex portfolio she will oversee, which ranges from media regulation to data governance and the rapidly evolving field of artificial intelligence.
Much of the department’s work involves implementing EU directives at the national level, meaning her experience with European policy will remain highly relevant.
Calteux views AI as both an opportunity and a risk, but believes that potential dangers can be anticipated and mitigated. She is committed to helping shape Luxembourg’s AI strategy so that these systems serve people, working closely with her team and numerous other stakeholders.
She also praised the government’s decision to enter into a partnership with a French AI firm, arguing that this will strengthen the country’s digital sovereignty.
In her final months at the Commission, Calteux has continued to monitor the situation in Ukraine, which she describes as increasingly dire. Russian attacks have intensified, and civilians are ever more frequently targeted. With winter approaching, the situation is expected to worsen, she warned, though the EU remains steadfast in its support for Kyiv.
A stable Ukraine, Calteux emphasised, is crucial not only for the country itself but for Europe as a whole. She stressed, however, that Ukraine will not be afforded special treatment on its path towards potential EU membership; reforms and adherence to EU standards remain a prerequisite for accession.
The European Commission is maintaining a close watch on issues such as corruption and the rule of law within Ukraine and its institutions, Calteux noted. She acknowledged that significant challenges remain, but also highlighted the considerable efforts underway, with ongoing support from the Commission for Ukraine’s progress.
