Back noted that the electoral programmes of the Christian Social People’s Party (CSV) and the Democratic Party (DP) diverge significantly from the OGBL’s vision of society. She stressed that the country’s employees now face major challenges, particularly in labour law, with the need for a reform of collective agreement legislation. However, the OGBL president expressed concern that both parties have not taken a firm stance on this issue. She cautioned against relying solely on European directives, as this would result in Luxembourg adhering only to the minimum standards.
The OGBL also has reservations about the positions of the CSV and DP regarding working hours and flexibility. Back pointed out that her trade union considers it “unprecedented” that the country will soon have a prime minister who previously served as president of a chamber of employers.
For the OGBL, the coalition agreement should prioritise several issues. For instance, the trade union insists that environmental protection must not be forgotten, even without the Green Party (déi gréng) in government. As far as housing is concerned, Back welcomed a shift in the DP’s programme towards a “Viennese model” with more public housing. However, she questioned how the DP would handle the CSV’s housing policy. The OGBL opposes tax breaks for investors, something proposed by the CSV, fearing they would drive up prices. If necessary, the trade union is willing to take to the streets to defend its position, Back stressed.
The OGBL president considered the CSV’s other tax policy proposals “unrealistic” and “impossible to implement.” She advocated for fairer taxation, which would entail reducing the tax burden on lower and middle-income earners while increasing taxes on higher incomes and large fortunes. She made it clear that by this she meant “multi-property owners” and not “ordinary citizens who own their homes or inherit a second property.” With a CSV-DP government, however, “it’s certain that there will be no tax justice,” she regretted.
Referring to the Luxembourg Socialist Workers’ Party (LSAP), which could find itself in opposition for the first time in 20 years, Back said: “Our hope is that all left-wing forces in the opposition will now unite.” However, she stressed that the OGBL remains “the principal opposition force.” Back also urged the CSV and DP to consult with social partners during coalition negotiations, as was done after the previous two elections.
