When was your party established and who founded it?

The Democratic Party (DP) was founded 2 June 1945 as the “Patriotic and Democratic Grouping” by Luxembourgish resistance fighters of World War II. Its current name goes back to 1955. Notable early members include Lucien Dury, Eugène Schaus, Gaston Thorn and René Konen.

What, if any, are your links to the European blocs?

The DP is a member of the Alliance of Liberals and Democrats for Europe (ALDE). Furthermore, the Luxembourgish Prime Minister Xavier Bettel (DP) works closely together with other liberal politicians in Europe, such as the prime ministers of Belgium and the Netherlands as well as the President of France, to bring forward the process of constructing a progressive and modern European Union, which creates prosperity and benefits all its citizens.

What do you consider the most important issues facing voters in Luxembourg?

The EU faces several important challenges. On an institutional level, we need to relaunch the process of European integration, for example the EU has to speak with one voice in matters of foreign policy. With regards to the member states, effective mechanisms that ensure the respect of our fundamental values are of the highest priority. We can’t accept an attitude of only benefiting from the Union without complying to its rules.

Moreover, the EU needs a dynamic, competitive and innovative economy that is on top of the recent technical developments. To achieve this, it is crucial to support small- and medium-sized businesses, deepen the single market and further the digital transformation of our societies by investing in new technologies, such as 5G telecommunication. However, the younger generations remain the most important resource, that the EU has to prepare for the challenges of tomorrow. Therefore, in order to give them better future opportunities, we will endeavour to expand the European youth programmes, such as “Erasmus+”, “DiscoverEU” and “the Youth Guarantee”.

Still, economic performance is not a goal in itself, but should primarily serve the EU’s citizens. They need to benefit from the EU’s success, which is why we strive to introduce social minimum standards unionwide. Constructing a social Europe is one of the major issues today, if we want to renew confidence in and support for the European project.

Finally, climate change is one of the most pressing issues globally. The EU needs to step up its efforts to curb emissions and transition towards a climate-neutral way of living. On the other hand, we also want the EU to take the lead on the international stage and strengthen the cooperation with countries such as the US, China, India and others.

Name one thing you hope to accomplish if any of your candidates are successful?

In our increasingly digital age, the completion of a digital single market, as a driver for growth and innovation, is of paramount importance. This includes, but is not limited to, putting geo-blocking finally to an end.

Please name the candidates representing your party in the European elections.

Current MEP Charles Goerens (who has served three terms), Monica Semedo, Simone Beissel, Gusty Graas, Anne Daems and Loris Meyer.