"The year 2024 is drawing to a close, and Christmas is the ideal time to take stock of the past year. It is with great emotion that I prepare to do so, as this is the last time that I will deliver the Christmas speech as head of state," said Henri in his final message, a quarter of a century after being elevated to the position.
"It has been a quarter of a century of challenges, opportunities and hope for a better future, thanks to the many technological and economic advances and changes in society. But these 25 years have also been marked by conflicts. All these moments have forced us to reflect and question ourselves. But they have also strengthened our sense of belonging to the same nation. We have remained united to make Luxembourg even more welcoming, in a sustainable environment. Through targeted measures, we have endeavoured to ensure that none of us is left by the wayside, in the knowledge that the strength, indeed the future, of our society lies in its ability to bring people together and show solidarity," he said, referring to Maria Teresa.
"Climate change is probably the greatest challenge of the future. Geopolitical tensions, wars and recurring economic upheavals are a constant threat and encourage us to remain vigilant. The liberation of Auschwitz 80 years ago shows us the abyss of cruelty that lies within us if we deny the very essence of humanity, the defence of our fundamental human rights. Let us never forget that.”
After pointing out that his office places him above parties and political debate without preventing him from speaking out when the fundamental interests of the country and its citizens are at stake - such as on the diversity of the population, the need to live together or sustainability in all its dimensions - the Grand Duke praised Luxembourg, "an extraordinary country".
"It is a crossroads of cultures, languages and lifestyles, a place of dialogue and exchange, where people from all over the world live side by side with Luxembourgers. This solidarity is our strength. I am well aware that this does not necessarily happen by itself. This model, which is unique in Europe, requires daily efforts, but it is worth it", he said. "We can be proud of what we have achieved so far. In any case, that is the message I hear from many of my fellow citizens of foreign origin whom I meet when I travel around Luxembourg. It is together that we have paved the road to get to where we are today. The concern for inclusion extends beyond our borders, where our country advocates multilateralism and dialogue between nations, so that together we can defend our essential values of democracy, freedom and human rights".
Henri also thanked "those who work every day in and for this country, whether they are Luxembourgers or non-Luxembourgers, residents or cross-border commuters, paid or voluntary. Your contribution is essential to the prosperity of our society and a guarantee for the future of our country."
Paying tribute to a country that has never stood still, the Grand Duke reiterated his confidence in the next generation. "It will assume responsibility for a world that is hopefully more peaceful and sustainable. For most of my generation, the time has now come to step back, to retire. It's a natural process that has its raison d'être, and it applies to me too. On the last bank holidays, I announced the appointment of Prince Guillaume as Lieutenant-Representative. Today, the Grand Duchess and I are pleased to announce that Prince William and Princess Stephanie will be our successors from 3 October 2025."
"I know that they will contribute with all their might to the well-being of the country," he concluded.
This article was originally published in .