What you need to know about self-defence in Luxembourg

In response to public concerns about personal safety, the Luxembourg police have issued guidance on legal methods of self-defence. Steve Goedert, head of the crime prevention unit at the capital’s police force, emphasised that self-defence methods popular in other countries are often illegal in the Grand Duchy.

One of the most common mistakes is buying and carrying pepper spray or tear gas. In Luxembourg, these items are classified as prohibited weapons. Gödert explained that even police officers are required to report to the public prosecutor and justify their actions when using such sprays. Furthermore, the use of such equipment during a scuffle or in strong winds often backfires on the victim themselves.

As a legal alternative, the police recommend using everyday items that are not classified as weapons:

• Umbrellas and handbags: these can be used to block blows or push an attacker away.
• Whistles: effective for attracting the attention of passers-by and exerting psychological pressure on an attacker.
• Safety advice: in the event of an armed robbery, the police strongly advise handing over your money or mobile phone to avoid physical harm.

The key legal requirement remains that the defence must be proportionate. If the attacker has retreated, any further blows struck by the victim will be regarded as a breach of the law.

For those who wish to learn how to respond appropriately to threats, the police run personal safety courses twice a year. The training is based on three pillars: recognising dangerous situations, physical self-defence techniques (in collaboration with Krav Maga centres), and psychological rehabilitation following an incident. The programme also includes an introduction to police procedures, so that members of the public understand how reports are drawn up and interviews are conducted, which helps them feel more confident when making a report.