Serge Wilmes
In the article, we will plunge into the aspects of Serge Wilmes' life, exploring his biography, notable achievements, political perspectives, and the intriguing facets of his personal life.
CSV
GOVERNMENT MEMBER
Ideology
Social Christianist
Active since
2011
Main focus
Christian Social People's Party (CSV), Center-right, Environmental Advocate, Political Reformer
Serge Wilmes, born in 1982, is a distinguished Luxembourgish politician affiliated with the Christian Social People's Party (CSV). Following his secondary education, Wilmes pursued studies in history at the University of Nancy-II in France and later completed his academic journey with a master’s degree in contemporary European history at the University of Luxembourg.
After a stint as a state employee at the National Archives of Luxembourg from 2007 to 2008, Wilmes transitioned into the realm of politics, serving as an advisor to the CSV parliamentary group until November 2011. His foray into the Chamber of Deputies began that same year, marking the commencement of a notable political career. Successfully re-elected in 2013, 2018, and most recently in 2023, Wilmes has demonstrated a steadfast commitment to public service.
Simultaneously, Wilmes assumed the role of First Alderman of the City of Luxembourg in 2017, maintaining this position until 2023. Notably, he relinquished both his Alderman and Deputy positions to embark on a new chapter as the Minister of Environment, Climate, and Biodiversity, as well as the Minister of Public Service.
Biography
Serge Wilmes, born on May 6, 1982, in Luxembourg City and raised in the Merl district, embarked on his academic journey at Lycée Michel-Rodange, where he completed his secondary education and graduated in 2001. His pursuit of knowledge then led him to France, where he studied history at the University of Nancy-II. Continuing his academic pursuits, Wilmes earned a master’s degree in contemporary European history from the University of Luxembourg, culminating in his graduation in 2016. Notably, his master's thesis elaborated on the stance of Catholic conservatism on abortion during the 1970s.
Post-graduation, from 2007 to 2008, Wilmes served as a state employee at the National Archives of Luxembourg. This role proved pivotal, providing him with a comprehensive understanding of the intricacies of politics, ranging from dossier management and understanding key issues to engaging with elected officials. This experience became a cornerstone for his future political career, opening doors that would define his trajectory in the political landscape.
Serge Wilmes, Minister for the Environment, Climate and Biodiversity and Minister for the Civil Service at the interview to RTL on August 10, 2023
Achievements
As the First Alderman of Luxembourg City, Serge Wilmes embarked on an ambitious agenda, focusing on urban development, housing policies, and sustainable mobility. Advocating for a proactive housing strategy, Wilmes aimed to position the city as a promoter of affordable housing. He emphasized the importance of human-centric new neighborhoods and advocated for a shift towards sustainable mobility, with an emphasis on cycling infrastructure. Additionally, he sought to rebalance the demographic equation between city residents and commuters while fostering increased participation of non-Luxembourgers in local politics.
City housing
National level
Professional activities and relationships
Serge Wilmes' political journey with the Christian Social People's Party (CSV) began in 2000, signaling his commitment even before reaching the age of majority. Progressing swiftly, he assumed the role of secretary-general for two years. However, his defining moment came in April 2008 when, at the age of 25, he became the president of the CSV Youth (CSJ). Throughout his leadership, Wilmes distinguished himself as a reformist, openly challenging the established order within the party. His tenure lasted until 2014, leaving an indelible mark on the organization.
Municipal politics
Wilmes' ascension to the presidency of the CSJ served as a catalyst for his entry into the national political stage. Garnering nearly 15,000 votes in the 2009 legislative elections, he secured the 14th position on the CSV list in the Center. Although this fell short ...
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Chamber of deputes
Contrary to the typical trajectory, Wilmes, already a deputy in 2017, entered municipal politics as the lead candidate during the communal elections. This strategic move catapulted him into the municipal council of the capital, where he assumed the role of First Alde...
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Government
Following the legislative elections of October 8, 2023, Serge Wilmes assumed a pivotal role in the coalition government led by Frieden-Bettel. Appointed as the Minister of Environment, Climate, and Biodiversity, as well as the Minister of Public Service, Wilmes stepp...
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Political views and support
Serge Wilmes, demonstrating an early interest in politics, joined the Christian Social People's Party (CSV) in 2000 at the age of 17, aligning himself with the party's values and ideals. The CSV, positioned in the center-right of the political spectrum, embraces a social-Christian orientation, emphasizing values such as solidarity, freedom, peace, equity, family, and subsidiarity. Notably, while the party draws inspiration from Christian values, it asserts itself as a non-confessional entity.
Wilmes resonates with the CSV's non-confessional stance, particularly given his critical views toward the institutional Church, especially on social issues. Simultaneously, he values the humanism embedded in the Christian social doctrine that guides the party, underscoring its continued influence on his commitment to public service.
Economically, the CSV advocates for a social market economy where state intervention ensures fair competition, good working conditions, social welfare, family well-being, and low unemployment, all while maintaining a robust economic growth rate.
While the CSV is generally considered conservative on cultural, social, and moral issues, Wilmes distinguishes himself within the party. Claiming a more liberal stance than some party leaders, he has surprised observers by supporting progressive measures, such as voting in favor of abortion legislation liberalization and endorsing the voting rights of foreigners in the 2015 referendum. This nuanced approach reflects Wilmes' commitment to a more diverse and inclusive political landscape within the CSV, positioning him as a representative with a broader perspective within the party's framework.
Criticism of the politician
Criticism is an inherent aspect of politics, often stemming from expressed opinions and decisions made by politicians. Occasionally, critiques extend beyond individuals to encompass institutional policies and decisions that impact a collective. While Serge Wilmes himself has not been subjected to public personal criticism, the mayoralty of Luxembourg City, with Wilmes serving as the First Alderman, has faced scrutiny.
Roots of politician
The end of the conflict
Personal life
Serge Wilmes, born into a family where civic engagement was ingrained, is the son of a father who worked as an engineer at Cegedel and a mother who dedicated her time to homemaking. Growing up surrounded by two brothers, his formative years were marked by the active involvement of his parents in the local section of the CSV in their neighborhood.
Presently, Serge Wilmes resides in Mullenbach with his wife and their three children, fostering a familial environment that reflects his upbringing and commitment to community values.
Hobbies
Football
Nature
Find Serge Wilmes in social networks:
We took photos from these sources: gouvernement.lu