Delano: What gets you out of bed in the morning?

Amela Skenderović: My job--quite literally! As a teacher, my normal working day starts quite early. Although I am anything but a morning person, I love going to work and enjoy being surrounded by my students. Knowing that I get to play a positive part in their development is something that truly motivates me every day.

What’s something that most people don’t realise about the upcoming elections?

As the upcoming elections draw near, there is a growing concern that right-wing parties are gaining significant momentum across Europe, and that these parties may secure a place in the next coalition, marking a historic shift in European policies.

This potential development carries substantial implications for EU-level policies, particularly in areas such as migration, foreign affairs and environmental issues. Indeed, the fear looms that the inclusion of right-wing parties could impede ambitious EU initiatives aimed at addressing climate change, potentially slowing down progress in this critical area. Given these circumstances, the upcoming elections hold immense importance and should not be underestimated in their potential impact on the future direction of EU policies and initiatives.

What does Europe mean to you?

Freedom, stability and social prosperity. These are the values that have made it possible for me to build my life and career successfully here in Luxembourg as a daughter of refugees. The generations before me fought hard so that I could reap all the benefits that a free and safe Europe offers: freedom of movement, freedom of opinion, freedom to become who I want to be. It is our duty to guarantee that the generations to come can enjoy these benefits as well.

Which site in Luxembourg represents Europe to you?

Definitely Belval. It embodies both the past and the future of Europe for me. In the past, the steel industry made Luxembourg a key player in Europe and worldwide, and Belval was at the heart of this industry. The district’s history is a reminder of the country’s industrial past and its contributions to Europe’s growth. At the same time, the university’s presence represents the future of Europe, where education and innovation are at the forefront of shaping our society. And as a true Minettsdapp --that’s what we call people from the south of Luxembourg--I can’t help but feel proud of this heritage!

A shorter version of this interview first appeared in  of Delano magazine.