The controversy emerged after the former president of the Human Migration Documentation Centre (CDMH), situated in Dudelange’s Italian neighbourhood, resigned from his position at the non-profit association in October 2023. He subsequently self-reported to the police for misappropriating the association’s funds, leading to legal proceedings.
In light of these developments, interim leadership has been appointed to oversee the operations of the centre until further notice. Despite the upheaval, the centre, which enjoys a reputation extending beyond Dudelange’s borders, is expected to continue its work.
Known affectionately as “Little Italy” by residents of Dudelange, the Italian neighbourhood holds a distinct place in the town’s identity and history.
Originally, the area gained prominence due to the abundance of job opportunities at the Reunited Steelworks of Burbach-Eich-Dudelange (ARBED), which attracted a significant influx of immigrants. Initially populated primarily by individuals from northern Italy, they constituted up to 75% of the neighbourhood’s population. Situated amidst iron ore mines and blast furnaces, the neighbourhood naturally became home to institutions like the CDMH.
The embezzlement amount is in the hundreds of thousands of euros, with the exact figure pending clarification through the ongoing investigation. Some portion of the misappropriated funds has been reimbursed by individuals associated with the former president. The duration of the embezzlement, spanning multiple years, raises questions about internal oversight by treasurers and external audits, which are now under scrutiny as part of the investigation. To prevent staff from bearing the brunt of the financial fallout, both the Ministry of Culture and the municipality of Dudelange have intervened with financial support.
Looking ahead, Mayor Dan Biancalana emphasised that the nonprofit’s administrative board has taken accountability and is undergoing restructuring to improve governance practices.
Despite the recent turmoil, the CDMH remains committed to its mission of presenting exhibitions on migration within historical, economic, and social contexts, as well as contributing to academic research.
Both the Ministry of Culture and the municipality reaffirm their support for the documentation centre. Mayor Biancalana underscores the centre’s significance not only for Dudelange but also for the entire nation, stressing the enduring relevance of migration as a topic of societal importance.
