"Luxembourg can no longer rely on others": Yuriko Backes on security, transport and personal values

In an interview with Télécran, Minister Yuriko Backes chose a symbolic place to talk - a park in Kirchberg with a replica of the "Tied Gun" sculpture, a peace symbol donated by Luxembourg to the UN. In a relaxed atmosphere, she talked about the most pressing topics, from European defence to cycling infrastructure.

According to Backes, the era of post-war pacifism is over: "The peace concept from which we have benefited for decades has come to an end". Luxembourg, she said, must increase its contribution to NATO and the EU: the country will reach the goal of 2% of GDP for defence as early as 2025, and 5% by 2035, like the other allies.

The minister's priorities include the creation of a reconnaissance battalion with Belgium, the purchase of armed drones, investments in air defence systems and a mobile military hospital. Cybersecurity and space technology, where Luxembourg is already demonstrating "real added value," are also important.

The Minister confirmed that the country is actively working on the National Mobility Plan 2040, which will be presented in 2027. The main objectives are: strengthening public transport, developing multimodality (combining different modes of transport) and improving road safety.

Backes emphasised worrying trends in society: "We are seeing, including in Luxembourg, an increase in hatred and violence against women and the LGBTQ community". In response, the ministry developed three new action plans: on gender equality, against gender-based violence and in defence of LGBTIQ+.

A one-stop centre for victims of violence has also been set up - an important step, she said, showing that it is not just about laws, but also about concrete help in everyday life.

Backes spent the summer with her family in Italy and Denmark, as well as at home in the garden. She can't completely "switch off" - she tries to work a couple of hours a day so as not to overload herself when she returns from holiday. When travelling, the minister reads thrillers and detectives, and music - from rock to meditative tracks - accompanies her everywhere, including on business trips.

Yuriko Backes is also involved in the Vélosummer cycling initiative, becoming a guide for one day. When asked about her wishes for the rest of the year, Backes says simply: peace, tranquillity and a return to dialogue - both at home and in Europe.

"We can no longer rely on others to protect us," she says. "Now Luxembourg has to take responsibility too."