The press release refers to the recent Sandweiler referendum as an example for why the laws need to be changed to facilitate the participation of foreign residents. Whether or not they are EU citizens, the three organisations believe that internationals who move to the Grand Duchy should be eligible to register in their local government elections as soon as they settle in Luxembourg.
In an interview with RTL Radio, ASTI president Laura Zuccoli noted: "We are the only country in Europe where this is not the case."
In order to participate in local elections or referendums, foreign residents need to be registered, a process which has to be concluded at least 87 days prior to an official election.
Zuccoli showed little understanding for this rule: "We believe this period to be disproportionate and it should therefore be reduced. In the case of the Sandweiler referendum, for instance, the time between the decision and the election was way too short. After all, once a Luxembourgish citizen turns 18, they are allowed to vote straight away."
As long as the laws remain unchanged, the organisations consider it to be of upmost importance to raise awareness of the circumstances and inform concerned residents. ASTI further believes that municipalities should increase their efforts to let their people know about these election processes.
