Georges Mischo has resigned as Minister of Labour and Sport

Luxembourg's Labour and Sports Minister Georges Mischo is leaving the government after a protracted crisis of confidence and a barrage of criticism from the opposition and trade unions. His resignation was announced on Monday by Prime Minister Luc Frieden, emphasising that the minister could no longer carry out his duties "in a calm atmosphere". The decision was the result of a private conversation the previous day, following which Mischo himself offered to leave, "putting the government's interests above his own".

Mischo, a member of the Christian Social People's Party (CSV), had been a minister for just over a year. His work has been highly controversial, both in terms of labour policy and sports. The unions reproached him for his lack of competence, empathy and ability to engage in constructive dialogue. "He lacks knowledge, practical skills and personal qualities," said an open letter to the government.

The situation escalated after the rejection of the Sports Museum project in the Rout Lëns area, which caused particular outrage. Socialist MP Liz Braz said the minister had "proven himself to be a failure not only in labour matters but also in sports policy", calling for his immediate resignation.

Mischo will be replaced as Labour Minister by Marc Spautz, an experienced parliamentarian and former Minister for Family, Integration and Humanitarian Aid. Frieden described him as a "ready and competent" politician familiar with labour sector issues. At the age of 62, Spautz is returning to government after a long tenure in parliament and as leader of the CSV (2014-2019).

The portfolio of sports minister goes to Martine Hansen, who will also retain her current responsibilities for agriculture. According to the prime minister, she is a "passionate sports fan", which should re-energise an area that has experienced public failure.

Mischo's resignation sparked a political backlash and exposed divisions within the coalition. Liz Braz called the departure "the logical outcome of failures" and said it could only be the beginning of wider changes. Marc Baum of déi Lénk went further, suggesting that the prime minister himself should leave next: "Frieden is also responsible for the current chaos in governance."

Even within the ranks of the coalition partners (DP) there was criticism. MP Gilles Baum admitted that the minister had "not found the right tone" in the dialogue with the unions from the start. Representatives of the OGBL and LCGB, the two largest unions, also made no secret of their relief. "It's not about personality, it's about competence. With Mark Spautz we hope to start with a clean slate," said OGBL head Nora Back.

Some, notably ADR MP Fred Keup, have questioned the official version of the resignation, suggesting intra-party intrigue within the CSV. He points out that Spautz takes a different stance than Frieden on social issues - and this could be a sign of a deep rift in the ruling party.