At its New Year’s reception in Limpertsberg on Thursday evening, the Left Party (Déi Lénk) offered a sharply critical assessment of global affairs and national politics, directing pointed criticism at the Luxembourg government.
The party’s new spokesperson, André Marques, lamented that 2026 had begun “unfortunately” just as 2025 ended: with war, violence, and human rights violations. He asserted that from Palestine to Ukraine, and Venezuela to Syria, civilian suffering stems from geopolitical interests and international failures. Marques condemned the role of the United States, arguing it prioritises only economic and strategic interests. He also contended that the European Union not only tolerates US President Donald Trump’s authoritarian policies but indirectly supports them.
The party identified a dangerous trend toward “ruling by force,” which it sees at the international, European, and national levels. This includes, it argued, political decisions made without broad social dialogue and a governing style that increasingly bypasses democratic debate.
In Luxembourg, party leaders pointed to the pension reform, a perceived lack of respect for trade unions, and what they called unclear legal texts as evidence of ill-prepared and socially insensitive policies. They criticised the government for burdening employees with its solutions, despite their own proposals for what they claim would be more sustainable systemic security.
On housing, the party accused the government of favouring developers and large corporations while many citizens face years-long waiting lists or unaffordable prices. The housing crisis, it stated, remains one of the country’s most significant social policy challenges. In healthcare, the Left Party warned of increasing privatisation, alleging that demands from care and hospital staff for better conditions are being ignored as economic interests gain influence.
The party strongly criticised a societal model it views as increasingly unequal, where wealth accumulates at the top while working people face growing pressure. Party leaders portrayed great fortunes and billionaires as symbols of what they termed an “antisocial and perverse” system.
They positioned themselves as the sole political voice for those they feel are unheard: employees, young people, the working poor, and small businesses. The Left Party expressed a deliberate intent to be a disruptive force, targeting those who benefit from the status quo.
Despite this stark critique, co-spokesperson André Marques also struck a hopeful note. He pointed to a growing number of young and engaged citizens who are recognising systemic injustices and joining the party’s cause. Last year saw an influx of 65 new members, bringing total membership to approximately 700. In his closing remarks, Marques urged supporters not to lose hope and to collectively fight for a more just and united society, asserting that systemic change is both necessary and achievable.
The reception held personal significance for Marques, marking his first New Year’s address since assuming the co-spokesperson role in 2025. He succeeded Gary Diderich, who – under the party’s rotation principle – is scheduled to enter the Chamber of Deputies in September alongside Ana Correia Da Veiga, replacing current MPs Marc Baum and David Wagner for the upcoming parliamentary session.
