Strengthening Luxembourgish as a mandatory integration language to be learned in Luxembourg

Public petition n°4004

Petitioner: David Delvaux

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The Luxembourgish language is a central element of the national identity and social cohesion of Luxembourg. According to Article 4 of the Constitution of the Grand Duchy of Luxembourg, Luxembourgish is the national language of the country. However, in everyday life it is increasingly observed that communication in Luxembourgish becomes difficult or even impossible. This concerns not only the public sector, but also many areas of daily life. In sensitive situations in particular, it is important that people can express themselves in their own language and also be understood. This applies especially in: • hospitals and healthcare institutions • retirement homes and care facilities • schools and childcare structures for children and young people • pharmacies • shops and services • public administrations • and many other areas

Many citizens, especially elderly people or children, do not always have the possibility to rely on other languages. A common language in everyday life facilitates communication, avoids misunderstandings and strengthens social cohesion. Therefore, this petition asks the Government and the Chamber of Deputies: to establish Luxembourgish as a mandatory integration language to be learned for people who live or work in Luxembourg on a long-term basis. to expand the availability of Luxembourgish language courses and make them more accessible. to encourage or require employers to give their employees the opportunity to learn Luxembourgish. to introduce the learning of the Luxembourgish language as a standard in schools for children and young people. The objective is not to exclude people, but to strengthen integration and to ensure that Luxembourgish, as the national language, remains present in everyday life, in commerce and in interactions with the population.