Among the proposed measures discussed were the establishment of smaller reception structures, mandatory language courses, and simplified access to the labour market. Minister Max Hahn outlined these pivotal strategies aimed at enhancing the integration of refugees in Luxembourg during the committee session.
The positive reception of the plan to distribute smaller reception centres across the country was tempered by the opposition’s disappointment over the absence of quotas compelling municipalities to establish such facilities. MP Claire Delcourt of the Luxembourg Socialist Workers’ Party (LSAP), the vice-president of the committee, highlighted the previous government’s unsuccessful attempt to encourage voluntary cooperation from municipalities. On the other hand, Maurice Bauer, an MP from the Christian Social People’s Party (CSV), emphasised the voluntary approach, asserting that coercion would not be beneficial for refugees, or the municipalities involved.
Minister Hahn highlighted the intent to present municipalities with “great alternatives,” suggesting that a ten-acre plot would suffice to construct a facility with 30 residential units. He assured that municipalities opting for this approach would receive additional resources from the Ministry of Family Affairs, encompassing both personnel and funding.
MP Marc Baum of the Left Party (déi Lénk) acknowledged that the proposal for smaller reception structures is a positive step. However, he highlighted the fundamental linkage between these structures and the overarching housing problem. Until concrete solutions are devised for housing challenges, Baum asserted that all other discussions would amount to mere “idle chatter,” emphasising the critical need for comprehensive housing strategies.
MP Joëlle Welfring of the Green Party (déi gréng) criticised the fact that simplified access to the labour market is only envisaged in sectors facing a shortage of staff in Luxembourg. Minister Hahn pointed out that this already covers a substantial number of sectors but clarified that the finer details on this aspect are still under consideration.
The opposition further lauded the proposal to offer financial support to private individuals hosting refugees in their homes. This measure aims to alleviate at least a portion of the additional costs incurred by these households.
Minister Hahn, while acknowledging the necessity for changes, clarified that there is no specific timetable in place. Stressing the gradual nature of the process, he highlighted that existing structures, even if no longer optimal, would remain operational due to the immediate strain on capacities. Minister Hahn reiterated that Luxembourg is unable to absorb the effect of “that which does not work at EU level.”
