Luxembourg strengthens the legal framework to combat organised crime

Luxembourg's Minister of Justice Elisabeth Margue, in response to a parliamentary enquiry by MP Dana Biancalana, reported on key initiatives aimed at strengthening the fight against organised crime, including drug trafficking. The Ministry is actively working to improve legal instruments, adapting them to modern challenges.

The minister stressed that, in accordance with the principle of separation of powers, the ministry does not interfere in the decisions and actions of judges, including the work of investigating judges. The main task of the ministry is to provide the courts with resources and contribute to the continuous improvement of their work, without violating the independence of the judiciary.

The Government of Luxembourg considers the fight against drug trafficking as one of its main objectives. As part of that strategy, the Ministry of Justice has initiated several legislative reforms:

• Bill No. 8381: seeks to address gaps in the criminal process identified in the investigation of serious crimes, including drug trafficking.
• Empowering law enforcement: it is proposed to introduce measures such as wiretapping, image capturing and digital data collection to disrupt criminal network structures.
• Modernisation of legislation: draft laws are being created that comply with international recommendations, including FATF (Financial Action Task Force) standards.

The Ministry has set up interdisciplinary working groups to remove practical obstacles in criminal investigations. Among the measures under consideration:

• Expedited proceedings: for drug trafficking offences, the introduction of a fast-track procedure is discussed.
• Improving the effectiveness of investigations: focus on technology adoption and improved working methods.

Elisabeth Margue noted that all measures were aimed at striking a balance between the effectiveness of the fight against crime and respect for human rights. Luxembourg remains committed to the rule of law.