The Constitutional Monarchy

(All articles referenced on this page refer to the articles of the Constitution of the Grand Duchy of Luxembourg that came into force on 01/07/2023.)

Besides the Grand Duke himself, other members of the family may also serve the State, even if only in a symbolic or occasional capacity. The Constitution (Art. 54) provides a state allowance solely for the Grand Duke, and, where applicable, for:

The Constitution (Art. 54) provides a state allowance solely for the Grand Duke, and, where applicable, for:

• the former Head of State,
• the Hereditary Grand Duke,
• the Regent and
• the Lieutenant-Représentant.

A brief history of the order of succession:

Only upon being appointed as Lieutenant-Représentant does the heir officially hold a state office, since he participates in the role of the Grand Duke.

In practice, starting after completing his studies, the Hereditary Grand Duke plays an active role in supporting the Grand Duke in official duties. In recent decades, it has become customary for the heir to be involved in promoting Luxembourg’s economy abroad and to partake in activities of societal relevance. Upon appointment as Hereditary Grand Duke, he may be appointed by the Grand Duke as a member of the Council of State, allowing him to deepen his understanding of the legislative workings of the State.

The Lieutenance

As the position of Head of State in the Grand Duchy of Luxembourg is hereditary, the Grand Duke may choose to be represented by another adult family member (Art. 58), who is in the line of succession (Art. 56). This person is appointed ‘Lieutenant-Représentant of the Grand Duke’ and assumes office after taking the oath before the Chamber of Deputies.

Today, the Lieutenancy is considered the final stage of preparation for the Hereditary Grand Duke before assuming the role of Head of State.

A brief history of Lieutenancies:

There have been six lieutenancies – of various durations – in the history of the Grand Duchy:

The Regency

A Regent assumes the role of Grand Duke when the latter is unable to fulfil his duties (Art. 59). The Grand Duke retains his title but no longer exercises his functions. Another adult family member, who is in the line of succession (Art. 56), then takes over temporarily. The Regent must take the oath before the Chamber of Deputies.

A regency is required:

• when the successor is a minor at the time of the Grand Duke’s death or abdication. The regency lasts until the successor reaches adulthood. Or
• if the Grand Duke is temporarily unable to fulfil his constitutional duties, for example due to health reasons.

A brief history of Regencies:

There have been two Regents (and four Regencies) in Luxembourg’s history.

The role of the Grand Duke is firmly rooted in the Constitution of the Grand Duchy and reflects a balance between tradition and modern democracy. As Head of State, the Grand Duke embodies national unity, state continuity and independence. His duties are defined and always embedded within a system of parliamentary oversight.

Luxembourg’s constitutional monarchy demonstrates how a monarchical head of state can function within a democratic framework, respecting the separation of powers, political neutrality and a stable institutional foundation.