On Saturday, our colleagues from RTL Radio hosted a roundtable discussion to mark International Women’s Day, featuring Minister for Gender Equality and Diversity Yuriko Backes, Milena Steinmetzer of the JIF (Journée Internationale des Femmes) platform, and Ana Pinto, president of the non-profit La voix des survivant(e)s (“The Voice of the Survivors”).
While Luxembourg ranks 7th in Europe for gender equality, Minister Backes acknowledged that there is still progress to be made, particularly in areas such as sports, culture, and healthcare. The discussion highlighted concerns that advancements in gender equality remain vulnerable to being questioned or undermined.
The JIF platform, which organises the annual feminist march in Luxembourg City on International Women’s Day, called for several policy changes, including the constitutional enshrinement of the right to abortion. Another key focus was workplace equality, with the guests noting that women continue to earn less than men annually, with significant disparities in pension benefits in particular. Steinmetzer pointed out that 41% of women receive smaller pensions than men, describing the situation as “shocking” and indicative of a broader issue of old-age poverty in Luxembourg.
Minister Backes emphasised the importance of women continuing their careers after having children. However, she rejected the notion that structural societal issues require political intervention in this area. She also dismissed claims that the government’s planned liberalisation of shop opening hours is targeted against women.
The roundtable also addressed the pressing issue of violence against women, with Ana Pinto highlighting the need for legal reforms in Luxembourg. Pinto pointed out that domestic violence remains widespread in the Grand Duchy, with police intervening approximately three times a day in such cases. She criticised the current system, noting that many complaints are shelved without consequences, leaving victims without justice. Pinto emphasised that shame should lie solely with the perpetrator, not the victim.
In response, Minister Yuriko Backes outlined the government’s efforts to tackle the issue. She explained that the first national action plan on violence against women is currently in preparation and is expected to be presented this summer. Additionally, a pilot project for a national victim support centre is set to launch in April or May. This centre aims to centralise all aid and support services, addressing a gap that has long existed in Luxembourg. Backes added that the centre will be gradually expanded over time.
