Yuriko Backes, Minister of Defence, as well as Mobility and Gender Equality, sat down for an interview with RTL Radio on Tuesday morning, addressing issues including recent allegations against CFL staff and the upcoming International Women’s Day.
In response to allegations of negligence by CFL surveillance staff, Minister Backes expressed concern, stating, “I don’t know anything about it. If it’s true, it’s serious.” She emphasised the importance of investigating these claims and engaging in dialogue with CFL to address any issues raised. The allegations surfaced in an article published earlier in the day by the newspaper Tageblatt.
Furthermore, as Minister for Gender Equality and Diversity, Backes underscored the significance of International Women’s Day, particularly in light of persistent global inequalities. She highlighted ongoing challenges faced by women worldwide, including discrimination, forced marriages, genital mutilation, and limited access to education, affecting millions of women globally.
Despite advancements, Luxembourg ranks last in the EU in terms of pensions, with women disproportionately affected by poverty as they age. Backes noted shortcomings in Luxembourg’s tax system, which is why the government advocates for reforms aimed at individualising taxation.
Yuriko Backes, as Minister for Defence, reiterated Luxembourg’s commitment to bolstering its military capabilities amidst the current volatile geopolitical climate. Emphasising the importance of fortifying national defence, investing in NATO, and providing steadfast support to Ukraine, Minister Backes asserted the necessity of these measures in ensuring regional stability.
To date, €270 million in aid has been given to Ukraine. Although the Minister cannot go into too much detail at the moment, as the draft 2024 budget will be tabled and presented on Wednesday, she stressed that this year’s defence budget will be “truly ambitious,” because “it is necessary.”
The minister was unequivocal: Luxembourg has no plans to send soldiers to Ukraine as long as there is a war. French President Emmanuel Macron had recently suggested that the deployment of ground troops to the conflict zone could not be excluded as an option. Support for Ukraine will continue to consist of material assistance, the Minister of Defence assured. Backes underscored that NATO cannot be a belligerent, otherwise “war will be imported into the EU.”
