Leon Gloden

This article looks into the multifaceted facets of Leon Gloden's life, exploring his biography, noteworthy achievements, political perspectives, and a glimpse into his personal life.

CSV

GOVERNMENT MEMBER

Ideology

Center-right

Active since

2000

Main focus

Constitutional Reform Freedom and security advocate

Léon Gloden, born in 1972, stands as a prominent Luxembourgish political figure, affiliated with the Christian Social People's Party (CSV). His educational journey led him to study law in France and Belgium. Post-graduation in 1999, he embarked on a legal career, joining the esteemed Elvinger Hoss Prussen (EHP) law firm, where he swiftly became a partner in 2007.

In the political arena, Gloden's journey began in 2000 as a municipal councilor in Grevenmacher, later assuming the role of mayor in 2011. Simultaneously, he entered national politics in 2009, securing a seat as a deputy in the legislative elections. His political trajectory includes re-elections in 2013, 2018, and 2023, culminating in his recent appointment as Minister of Internal Affairs in November 2023.

Biography

Born on December 9, 1974, in Ettelbrück, Léon Gloden's academic journey laid its foundation at the Lycée Classique of Echternach. Pursuing a passion for law, he furthered his education at the University of Aix-Marseille III in France. In 1998, with a commitment to broadening his expertise, Gloden attained a DEEA (Diplôme d'études européennes approfondies) in Community Law at the College of Europe in Bruges, Belgium.

Upon completing his studies in 1999, Gloden embarked on a legal career, joining the prestigious Elvinger Hoss Prussen (EHP) law firm the same year. Rising through the ranks, he became a partner in 2007 and continues contributing actively to the firm. Specializing in EC law, employment law, real estate law, and litigation, Gloden has solidified his reputation as an accomplished legal professional. His intellectual contributions extend to various publications addressing EC law matters.

Parallel to his legal pursuits, Léon Gloden assumes leadership roles in diverse organizations. He presently serves as the President of the "Entente Touristique de la Moselle" and holds positions such as president of the SIAGE, First Vice President of SIDEST, and board member of the port company Port de Mertert.

What is SIAEG and SIDEST?

SIAEG — Intercommunal syndicate for the creation, development, promotion, and operation of a regional business park in the canton of Grevenmacher.SIDEST — Intercommunal syndicate for wastewater treatment in the East.

Furthermore, his civic engagement is underscored by his past role as the president of the organizing committee for the local wine festival, a significant celebration within the Luxembourg Moselle region, renowned as the largest grape and wine festival in the Greater Region.

I give a lot of space to foreign residents. Through my profession, I have a lot of contact with private individuals who are foreigners and who reside in Luxembourg or who contact me through their companies. In view of this lawyer-client relationship, a relationship of trust was born and people inform me of what is happening in Luxembourg, that is to say on the ground. For me, foreigners are part of our country, our nation. Their interests, concerns and expectations must be taken into account.

Leon Gloden, mayor of Grevenmacher back then in interview with Virgule on 19 February 2018

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Achievements

Léon Gloden's tenure as mayor of Grevenmacher unfolded amid a backdrop of multifaceted challenges, from the initial waves of the COVID-19 pandemic to the subsequent war in Ukraine. Throughout these turbulent times, Gloden adeptly navigated the difficulties, emerging as a key figure in the political landscape of Grevenmacher. As the incumbent mayor, he could have secured a third consecutive term, a testament to the trust he garnered among the community.

Leadership in Municipal Council

Within the municipal council, Gloden's leadership enjoys unanimous acclaim. The council's efficiency and the widespread approval of projects, often passed with unanimity, attest to the effectiveness of Gloden's management. Even the opposition finds it challenging to cast doubt on his work, highlighting a commendable consensus on the positive impact of Gloden's initiatives.

Focused Investment in Community Projects

Gloden's investment priorities underscore a commitment to community development. Significant funds, totaling 130 million over 12 years, have been directed towards housing, the cultural center, the music school, and the sports hall, among other essential projects. Notably, the financial prudence demonstrated in the management of public finances is exemplified by instances such as the decision in 2022 to forgo a planned credit, a testament to the adept fiscal stewardship under Gloden's leadership.

As a deputy, Gloden contributed to expansive projects involving multiple stakeholders, making it challenging to attribute achievements solely to him.

Interviews

Article by Leon Gloden: “Well prepared for the future”

Read on Wort

“Economic and social cohesion begins at the municipal level”

Read on Virgule

Professional activities and relationships

Repeatedly re-elected to many of his positions, the politician has demonstrated his dedication in the areas of protecting human rights, promoting cultural diversity and leading the community to the better future.

Political career

Involvement with the CSV

Léon Gloden's political journey commenced at 26 when he joined the Christian Social People's Party (CSV) in 1999. Over nearly two decades, Gloden's ascent within the party has been noteworthy. Since 2018, he has held the position of vice president of the CSV parliamentary group in the Parliament, concurrently serving as a member of the National Executive Committee of the CSV.

Municipal politics

Gloden's foray into municipal politics unfolded when he contested the Grevenmacher municipal elections at the request of then-mayor and deputy Norbert Konter. Elected as a counselor in 2000, Gloden's political trajectory reached its pinnacle in 2011 when the CSV secured victory in the local elections, leading to his appointment as mayor steering a coalition between the CSV and Déi Gréng. Gloden and his coalition secured re-election in the municipal polls of 2017, with his term extending until June 2023.

Chamber of Deputies

Transitioning from municipal to national politics, Gloden entered the political arena as a candidate for the Chamber of Deputies in 2009, representing the East constituency. Despite initially securing the sixth position in the East constituency, which had only four available seats for the party, Gloden's entry into the Parliament was facilitated by the ministerial appointments of Octavie Modert and Françoise Hetto-Gaasch. Subsequently, Gloden was directly elected as a deputy in the 2013, 2018, and 2023 parliamentary elections.

Governmental roles

In 2023, Gloden, having been re-elected as a deputy, anticipated continuing his parliamentary role. However, a pivotal moment in November saw a significant turn in his political trajectory as he was appointed Minister of Internal Affairs in the Frieden-Bettel coalition government, marking a prominent chapter in Léon Gloden's government service. As Minister, he is responsible for municipal affairs, internal security, and immigration.

Political views and support

Léon Gloden aligns himself with the values and ideals of the Christian Social People's Party (CSV), a center-right political force in Luxembourg. The CSV embraces social-Christian principles, emphasizing solidarity, freedom, peace, equity, family, and subsidiarity. Importantly, while rooted in Christian values, the CSV maintains a stance of non-confessionalism.

Freedom holds paramount importance for Gloden within the CSV framework, viewing security as a prerequisite for preserving this freedom. His focus on ensuring security has been a cornerstone of his political agenda. In terms of political and economic orientation, Gloden echoes the CSV's commitment to a social market economy. This vision involves state intervention to ensure fair competition, favorable working conditions, social well-being, family welfare, and low unemployment rates, all while maintaining robust economic growth.

Gloden advocates for a responsible renewal of the state's institutions in the context of constitutional reform, aligning them with contemporary reality. This approach involves dialogue with citizens and a long-term perspective to adapt to evolving societal needs. Beyond economic matters, Gloden supports the promotion of the Luxembourgish language, strengthening children's rights, and enhancing the political landscape for entrepreneurs, particularly in rural areas. He believes that a bit more entrepreneurial spirit would undoubtedly benefit the country.

Over time, Léon Gloden's popularity has seen a steady rise. Beyond the ballot box, his political influence manifested when he was appointed Minister of Internal Affairs post-election, underscoring the widespread support he enjoys not only at the polls but also within the political sphere.

Entered the Chamber of Deputies in 2013

10 612 votes

Has been re-elected in 2018 with

9 754 votes

November 2023 legislative elections brought

13 377 votes

Criticism of the politician

Criticism is an inherent aspect of daily life, particularly in the realm of politics, where opposing viewpoints often collide, magnified by the magnitude of decisions and media exposure. In the case of Léon Gloden, any criticisms directed towards him appear to have remained relatively subdued, possibly resolved through dialogue before escalating to significant levels. While critiques are a common facet of political engagement, Gloden seems to have navigated them with a degree of discretion and effective communication, minimizing the public amplification of any potential controversies.

Personal life

Léon Gloden, the son of a notary, resides in Grevenmacher with his wife, Martine Paulus, and their two children. Beyond his political engagements, Gloden finds solace in running along the Moselle, showcasing a personal affinity for physical activity and a connection to the scenic beauty of the region.