82 per cent of Luxembourgers consider culture an important part of their lives

On Monday 19 May 2025, Luxembourg's Minister of Culture, Eric Thill, presented the results of a large national survey on cultural life, conducted by the ILRES research service commissioned by the ministry. This is the first initiative in 10 years to understand how culture is lived in real life by the country's inhabitants - beyond the stages, galleries and reports.

The survey covered 1981 people aged 16 and over, representing different regions and social groups. The results formed the basis for future policies on cultural accessibility and territorial equality.

82% of respondents stated that culture plays an important role in their lives. However, the level of involvement varies: the higher the education and economic status, the more active the involvement. In addition, geography is a key factor. In cities and central areas, there is more choice, logistics are easier, and therefore participation is higher. In rural areas, there are fewer offers, less information and more barriers.

There is a particularly marked difference in the assessment of the 'attractiveness' of the cultural scene: it is perceived generally favourably across the country, but in remote areas there is a lack of events and artist presence, as well as poor promotion of existing content.

Interestingly, local concerts, festivals and traditional holidays turn out to be the most meaningful forms of participation. They are simpler, closer, more emotionally intense. This confirms that culture begins not in the philharmonic hall, but in the square at home.

Residents also noted the need for more active promotion of cultural events, especially those related to the history and specifics of the region. The problem is not only the lack of events, but also the fact that they are often simply not known about.

Minister Eric Thiel called the results a "turning point" and announced the preparation of the "Access to Culture" action plan. The next step is the Assises culturelles (Public Hearings on Culture), which will take place on 25 June 2025. There, the department will discuss with artists, organisations and citizens how to make culture truly accessible to all - not only in the capital, but also in the periphery.

The survey was part of the implementation of point No. 47 of the Kulturentwécklungsplang 2018-2028 cultural development plan, which provides for regular research into the cultural practices of the population. This is an important tool to not just create culture, but to understand who touches it and how.