During a parliamentary debate on Wednesday, MPs from across party lines unanimously agreed that there is no need for compulsory military service in Luxembourg. The discussion, initiated by the Luxembourg Socialist Workers’ Party (LSAP), shifted focus to broader issues facing the military, including recruitment, investment, and national security strategy.
Several MPs emphasised the need to improve the public perception of military careers to attract more personnel. Minster of Defence Yuriko Backes acknowledged the importance of increased investment but stressed that financial resources alone are not enough. She highlighted the urgent need for more staff to operate advanced machinery and weaponry, while reiterating that compulsory military service “isn’t the solution”.
LSAP MP Liz Braz proposed an alternative approach, suggesting the implementation of a “skill mapping” system to document the civilian skills of Luxembourg’s population. According to Braz, such a system would provide authorities with a comprehensive overview of available skills, enabling quicker mobilisation in emergency situations.
On the other hand, MP Marc Baum of the Left Party (Déi Lénk) expressed concerns about the current discourse on war and rearmament, warning that it could increase the risk of actual conflict. Baum criticised the annual investment of “hundreds of millions of euros” into military equipment to “meet NATO obligations”. He also lamented Luxembourg’s “diplomatic passivity”, arguing that the country is too reactive in the face of global challenges.
In response to the debate, Minister Backes announced the creation of an interministerial task force. This group will bring together all relevant stakeholders to develop a coherent national security strategy.
