Throne Speech | 03.10.2025 - Chambre des Députés

Your Majesties,

Your Royal Highnesses,

Mr President of the Chamber of Deputies, 

Madam President of the European Parliament,

Mr Prime Minister,

Mr President of the European Council,

Honourable Members of Parliament and Members of the Government, 

Dear fellow citizens,

"I will live the life of my people, from whom I do not want to be separated by any barrier. I will share their joys and sufferings." 

With these words, Grand Duchess Charlotte addressed the nation for the first time on 18 January 1919. These words went beyond the oath she had taken a few days earlier as the new Head of State: they were also a promise to her country and her people.

These were sincere and heartfelt words, spoken in the aftermath of a conflict that had torn Europe apart. Words whose full significance would only be revealed two decades later, in the wake of an even more tragic cataclysm. Exactly eighty years ago, in 1945, Grand Duchess Charlotte returned from exile.

In those dark times, the monarchy stood as an essential pillar of continuity for the Luxembourg state. A symbol of the principles of freedom and unity enshrined in our Constitution, the monarchy has remained – then as now – a constant point of reference and a steadfast support in times of crisis. In this sense, the oath I have just taken on the Constitution marks a significant institutional milestone for our country. 

I undertake to fulfil, with responsibility, integrity and dedication, the duties associated with this oath and prescribed by the Constitution. Our democracy needs strong institutions, and I am honoured to be a full part of them.

I therefore pledge to remain politically neutral and to defend our fundamental democratic principles steadfastly.

I solemnly swear to serve all the people of our country, and to act, in all circumstances, in the interests of the nation.

I promise always to listen and to work towards finding common solutions.

I will act with integrity, remain authentic, and serve our country with loyalty and honesty.

The Grand Duke embodies national unity and independence. In these challenging times, the monarchy has a vital role to play: listening attentively, building trust among the people, and strengthening social cohesion. 

***

Mr President of the Chamber of Deputies,

At the National Day celebrations last June, you reminded us that, in these times, legitimacy and authority no longer derive from function alone. They rest on collective acceptance, which guarantees the longevity of an institution. A monarchy is often anchored in centuries-old traditions that form an essential part of our identity. And yet, the monarchy must evolve with the times and remain oriented toward the future. 

I wish to be the Grand Duke who builds bridges between generations, between tradition and innovation. I will strive to build bridges between people, thereby strengthening the cohesion of our society. Looking to the future, it is our shared values, our creativity and our solidarity that shall carry us forward together.

The world we live in today is very different from those dark times in our history – when the words of Grand Duchess Charlotte brought a glimmer of hope to an entire people. Yet it is also a different world from that of twenty-five years ago, when my father took his oath in this very place.

We are facing many challenges: growing geopolitical tensions, a global economy that has become unpredictable once again, a spiral of disinformation that threatens our democracy, and the ever more visible impact of climate change. Meanwhile, war and poverty remain tragic constants.

Our world is changing rapidly, shaped by technological progress and profound societal transformations. Yet throughout its history, Luxembourg has shown a remarkable ability to adapt to international challenges and to turn them into opportunities.

We have much to be proud of, but pride must never give way to complacency. Through innovative investments, Luxembourg today stands not only as a leading financial centre, but also an increasingly attractive hub for new technologies. In doing so, we are shaping our future, building a strong and sustainable economy, and preserving our social model.

Here in Luxembourg, we have what it takes to rise to the challenges of tomorrow. My hope is that we shall continue to work side by side, in a spirit of solidarity and responsibility. Building bridges is one of the Grand Duchy's great strengths. And our social stability remains a major asset for both our society and our economy.

These are the hallmarks of a Luxembourg that is dynamic, innovative and attractive. In my new role, it will be a great honour to me to continue to embody this Luxembourg abroad and to support the endeavours of our government.

***

The Grand Duchy has another unique asset: a multicultural and multinational population. 

Over decades, many people have come to live and work here. Some came from southern Europe or neighbouring countries and have been our fellow citizens for a long time. Others have arrived more recently, as a result of globalisation and the diversification of our economy. And still others have found refuge here, fleeing war or poverty. Together, these people represent almost half of our population and, along with the many cross-border workers from our neighbouring countries, they make a vital contribution to Luxembourg's prosperity. By this, I mean not only economic wealth, but also cultural wealth, which has had a significant impact on our country and has shaped our identity. As the new Grand Duke, I am proud to be there for them as well. I would like to express my sincere gratitude for their contribution to the successful development of Luxembourg as we know it today.

This unique context is, of course, not without its challenges. But I wish for us to build more bridges between communities – for us to truly live together, not merely side by side. I believe in the values of openness, diversity, tolerance and solidarity. 

Luxembourg thrives when every person truly feels at home here.

***

Ladies and Gentlemen,

Today, I wish to address our young people in particular.

As the father of two young children, I reflect deeply on the world in which they will grow up. We are at the dawn of a major technological revolution, driven by artificial intelligence. It will transform our lives, our environment, and even our democratic institutions. Such changes can give rise to feelings of uncertainty about the world of tomorrow. And it is the younger generation for whom the stakes are highest. 

In an increasingly digital world, we must cultivate human connections more than ever. For it is through dialogue and direct contact that true understanding of others is born, along with genuine empathy. Each of us carries the responsibility to build bridges that draw us closer together. This is a major responsibility, especially towards our youth. They are growing up in a world where artificial intelligence is an everyday reality. They must therefore learn not only to understand and to use technology, but also to approach it with a critical eye – with the support of their families, their friends, their teachers, but also beyond the classroom and in the workplace. While artificial intelligence offers many benefits, it must never be allowed to stifle our creativity or weaken our critical spirit.

Our democracy and our society need citizens who are engaged, enlightened and creative – citizens for whom mutual support comes naturally.

***

Human relations are also the foundation of a strong sense of community. A spirit of community and solidarity which we must nurture and keep alive! Yet today, our society is marked by a tendency towards withdrawal, often at the expense of care for others. That is why I call upon you – the young, but also the not-so-young – to continue your voluntary engagement in associations, municipalities, and the many clubs and circles of our social life. And to those who have not yet taken this step: dare to volunteer. Through such commitment you strengthen social cohesion, forge bonds, and foster solidarity – values that are particularly dear to me. It is only by acting together that we can overcome tomorrow's challenges and build a more resilient society.

Our strength lies in our community and in the values we share.

I will therefore continue to commit myself wholeheartedly to supporting the most vulnerable and disadvantaged, as well as those who, each day, stand by them. Our community is made up of all of us. Above all, I want to give a voice to those who are seldom heard, and whose lives are often marked by hardship. 

My wife, Grand Duchess Stéphanie, has stood by my side and has shared this commitment for many years. She will continue to support me, while also setting her own priorities. And human well-being is at the heart of our shared sense of purpose. The role of the spouse of the Head of State is a very important one: the spouse contributes to our country's international standing, upholds our values, gives prominence to vital social and cultural causes, and recognises the dedication of all those who serve them, whether as volunteers or professionals. We are particularly honoured today to be joined by two Queens who embody this role to perfection.

My mother, Grand Duchess Maria Teresa, has always been deeply committed to helping victims of violence and the most vulnerable. My father, Grand Duke Henri, has dedicated his life to the service of our country. Together, over the past twenty-five years, they have greatly contributed to Luxembourg's well-being. Since my childhood, they have prepared me for this moment, year after year, with love and understanding. I want to thank them with all my heart for the trust they have placed in me. Without your support, I would not be the person I am today.

***

There is also another person in my family who has left a profound mark on me – and, I believe, on all those who had the privilege to know him. A man of great heart, who did not shy away from the front lines to fight for our freedom. I speak, of course, of my grandfather, Grand Duke Jean. For several years now, I have taken on his role as Chief Scout, a role especially dear to him. I am proud today to embrace this new mission as Head of State, walking – also – in his footsteps. He is with us today, present in our thoughts.

***

Ladies and Gentlemen,

Tomorrow evening, as we celebrate the change of throne, as we cross the emblematic Red Bridge, which bears the name of my great-grandmother,

tomorrow evening, when we make our way across the bridge from the old to the new, from tradition to modernity, side by side with nearly two thousand people drawn from all corners of society,

then, at that moment, upon the Red Bridge, I shall remember the promise I have made to the people of Luxembourg and to all our fellow citizens – and I shall recall, above all, the words of Grand Duchess Charlotte:

"I will live the life of my people, from whom I do not want to be separated by any barrier. I will share their joys and sufferings." 

This is, for me, the very essence of the oath I have sworn before you today.

Thank you.