Today at the Luxembourg Expats Stories series, we are sitting down with Anne from Luxembourgish With Anne. For many expats and newcomers, learning Luxembourgish is a key step to integrating into daily life, connecting with the local community, and preparing for the Luxembourg citizenship exam (Sproochentest). Whether it’s using simple greetings at the bakery, feeling confident at work, or passing the exam, having the right guidance makes all the difference. That’s where Anne and her story with Luxembourgish with Anne (LWA) comes in. Anne is a pioneer in Luxembourgish language coaching with LWA has become one of the most trusted names for Luxembourgish courses - from beginner foundations to advanced workplace coaching. With her unique neurolanguage and communication coaching approach, Anne has supported learners to not only pass exams but also use Luxembourgish naturally in daily and professional life. In this exclusive interview with Luxembourg Expats, Anne shares her inspiring journey, the creation of her flagship courses, and her advice for newcomers on how to embrace Luxembourgish life with confidence. Let’s get started with Anne: Anne, could you kindly introduce yourself to our community and tell us a little about your background? I was born and raised in Luxembourg, where I also completed my schooling. I worked in the financial sector, but I soon realized the work wasn’t creative or engaging enough for me. Since I’ve always loved reading and telling stories, I began sharing them in Luxembourgish, which sparked a real passion for the language. Today, I’m the CEO and founder of LWA, and a leading pioneer for Luxembourgish coaching. I work with a wide range of clients — from those preparing for the Luxembourgish language exam to acquire citizenship, to professionals who want to improve their confidence in conversation classes and to anyone who simply wants to learn Luxembourgish for their day-to-day life. What's your entrepreneurial journey? How did you get started with Luxembourgish with Anne? I started teaching Luxembourgish in 2012, first with language schools and local communes. I soon realized that learners needed more than grammar — they needed confidence and real-life communication skills. That led me to train as a neurolanguage and communication coach and to found Luxembourgish with Anne. Since then, I’ve worked with individuals and groups — from citizenship exam candidates to professionals and everyday learners — helping them communicate naturally in daily and workplace situations. I expanded into online learning with programs like From Zero to Sproochentest. And in 2025, I was honored to be nominated as the Leading Pioneer of Luxembourgish Language Coaching. Today, my mission is to make Luxembourgish learning practical, engaging, and confidence-boosting, so learners can succeed in their goals and feel comfortable using the language in real life What courses does Luxembourgish with Anne offer? Who should contact you? At Luxembourgish with Anne, we offer a full pathway of online Luxembourgish courses. It starts with A1 Foundation and A2 Consolidation, and then moves into the flagship program From Zero to Sproochentest, which prepares beginners step by step for the citizenship exam. For learners beyond the basics, I’ve developed self-study courses such as the B1.1 Verstoen a Schwätzen and the Formal and Business Language course. And for professionals who want more targeted practice, my new program Speak Luxembourgish at Work combines practice, feedback, and coaching to help them feel confident using Luxembourgish in real workplace situations. So whether your goal is the citizenship exam, integrating Luxembourgish into daily life, or using it effectively at work, there’s a program designed for you What are you most proud of about Luxembourgish with Anne? What I’m most proud of is the tangible impact Luxembourgish with Anne has on people’s lives. Since founding the school, I’ve supported thousands of learners — from citizenship exam candidates to anyone looking to gain confidence and improve their Luxembourgish, whether for work or daily life. I’ve created structured and innovative programs like From Zero to Sproochentest, the conversation classes Schwätz mat eis, and Speak Luxembourgish at Work, which are unique in Luxembourg. But what truly makes it all worthwhile is seeing learners transform uncertainty into confidence, succeed in their exams, and use Luxembourgish naturally in everyday and professional situations, knowing that our conversation classes have supported them in building strong oral skills. What are your hobbies and interests? I enjoy reading, especially about Asian culture and Luxembourgish authors, which inspires me both personally and professionally. I also love spending time outdoors, taking long walks with my dog, and balancing my vacations between life in nature in Provence and relaxing by the sea in South of France. Recently, I’ve started a new hobby — calligraphy — which allows me to focus and be creative in a different way. What's your favourite spot in Luxembourg? My favourite spot in Luxembourg is the Vallée de Pétrusse — or Péitrussdall in Luxembourgish — which has recently been completely re-designed. I love going there for a walk with my dog, it’s such a beautiful green area right in the city. Another place I really enjoy is the Brasserie Häerz, where I like to go for coffee or breakfast. The Brasserie Häerz has a lot of history, because it’s located in the city center where Tapis Hertz stood for almost 80 years. Founded in 1946, it became a well-known family business, famous for its carpets and even supplying the Grand Ducal Court. The shop closed in 2019, so the café now carries on the spirit of a real Luxembourgish institution. What's your top 3-recommendations for newcomers in Luxembourg? My top three recommendations for newcomers would be: First, take the time to explore Luxembourg’s nature — the country is small, but it’s full of hidden gems like the Mullerthal or the Moselle. Second, try the local food and cafés, from a traditional Bouchée à la reine or Kniddelen to discovering new places like café Häerz. And third — and I think this is very important — start learning a bit of Luxembourgish right away. Even just simple greetings will make you feel welcome and open doors in daily life. What's your favourite quote? My personal quote is: “When a teacher is passionate about languages, that passion becomes contagious and inspires learners to love the language too.” That’s exactly what drives my work — sharing my passion for Luxembourgish so learners not only succeed in exams or at work, but also enjoy the language in their daily lives.” Anything else interesting we should've asked? One thing I’d like to add is that I’m very proud to have been recognized as the Leading Pioneer of Luxembourgish Language Coaching 2025 by the EU Enterprise Awards. For me, this recognition is not only an honor, but also a motivation to keep innovating and supporting learners in making Luxembourgish part of their daily and professional lives. That’s a wrap. Anne’s journey with Luxembourgish with Anne (LWA) proves that learning Luxembourgish can be practical, confidence-boosting, and even enjoyable. Through innovative programs like From Zero to Sproochentest, Schwätz mat eis conversation classes, and Speak Luxembourgish at Work, Anne has made it easier than ever for learners to succeed in the Luxembourgish language exam, integrate into daily life, and feel at home in Luxembourg. For expats and newcomers, her top advice is clear: explore Luxembourg’s stunning nature, enjoy its rich food culture, and most importantly, start learning Luxembourgish early. Even a few words can make a big difference in helping you feel welcome, connected, and part of the community. With passionate educators like Anne leading the way, learning Luxembourgish isn’t just about passing an exam - it’s about unlocking opportunities, building confidence, and embracing life in Luxembourg. Learn More About Luxembourgish With Anne :  luxembourgishwithanne.lu

The Luxembourg Road Safety Association (Sécurité Routière) supports tougher penalties for drivers caught using their mobile phones behind the wheel but stresses that more effective enforcement should come before harsher punishment. The discussion follows a new public petition by Fabrice Mounier, which calls for immediate confiscation of the driver’s license and mobile phone of anyone caught using a device while driving. Paul Hammelmann, president of the association, told Contacto that while he agrees stricter measures may be necessary, the real issue lies elsewhere. “Our priority should be to control mobile phone use behind the wheel, not just to increase penalties. The current ones are already dissuasive, but people know very well that inspections are insufficient,” he said. Under current Luxembourg law, drivers caught using a mobile phone face a €250 fine and a loss of four license points — penalties Hammelmann describes as “already quite severe.” A Leading Cause of Serious Accidents Despite the existing rules, Hammelmann agrees with those supporting the petition, saying that phone use while driving has become one of the leading causes of serious road accidents. As for confiscating phones, he remains skeptical about its effectiveness: “Taking away a gadget won’t solve much — two hours later, the person could just buy another one,” he noted. Instead, he suggests that seizing the vehicle in extreme cases could have a greater impact, though he admits that such sanctions are legally complex. Government Plans to Toughen Sanctions Hammelmann also pointed out that the Luxembourg government is already considering stronger penalties, including revisions to suspended driving bans that are currently seen as too lenient. Learning from Other Countries According to Hammelmann, Luxembourg should draw inspiration from countries like Finland, where Helsinki recorded zero road deaths in 2024 — an achievement largely attributed to rigorous enforcement. “Everything is strictly monitored there — alcohol use, speeding, and phone use,” he explained. He also highlighted France’s use of automated radars that detect both speeding and mobile phone use, suggesting Luxembourg should adopt similar technology. “Vision Zero” is Achievable The Road Safety president remains optimistic about the future: “It’s possible to have zero deaths on Luxembourg’s roads. We’ve long promoted ‘Vision Zero’, and while many said it was an illusion, Finland has proven it’s achievable.” In summary, while Luxembourg’s Road Safety Association supports the spirit of the petition, it insists that stronger, automated enforcement tools — not just steeper fines — are the key to preventing accidents and saving lives. Read More : Mobile phone at the wheel in Luxembourg. "People know very well that there is not enough enforcement" | Contact Join the community of your own - #1 home-grown LuxExpats app SignUp Free : luxembourgexpats.lu   

Luxembourg’s Minister of Justice, Élisabeth Margue, represented the country at the annual meeting of the Ministers of Justice of the German-speaking countries, held in Vaduz, Liechtenstein, on Sunday and Monday. The event brought together ministers from Germany, Austria, Switzerland, Liechtenstein, and Luxembourg to discuss key challenges facing modern justice systems. The discussions opened with a focus on the resilience of democratic structures amid growing internal and external threats. Participants emphasized that protecting fundamental rights and maintaining the independence of national and international courts remain the “indispensable foundation” of the rule of law. A major topic was the fight against gender-based violence, with Minister Margue calling for stronger legal protections and increased public awareness. “Gender-based violence is unacceptable and requires decisive action. Women are disproportionately affected — whether through domestic violence, sexual assault, rape, or harassment,” said Margue. The ministers also examined the impact of artificial intelligence (AI) on judicial systems, discussing both its potential to improve efficiency and the ethical and legal challenges it poses. Ensuring responsible and transparent use of AI in legal proceedings was identified as a key priority for all participating countries. Additionally, the agenda included the modernization of family law, reflecting today’s diverse family structures. Ministers exchanged perspectives on how legal frameworks can better adapt to evolving social realities while ensuring equal protection and rights for all. The meeting concluded with a shared commitment to strengthening cooperation among German-speaking countries in promoting justice, equality, and democratic integrity. Read More : Minister Margue talks about the rule of law and AI in Vaduz | The Daily Join the community of your own - #1 home-grown LuxExpats app SignUp Free : luxembourgexpats.lu   

Between 2014 and 2024, Luxembourg recorded 46 pedestrian deaths and 438 serious injuries in road accidents. In 2024 alone, pedestrians were involved in 17% of fatal and 15% of serious accidents. These alarming figures have prompted the Ministry of Mobility to launch a new awareness campaign focused on crosswalk safety. The initiative is part of the international “Vision Zéro” strategy, which aims to eliminate road fatalities and strengthen vigilance and shared responsibility among all road users. The campaign underlines a stark reality: in the event of a collision, pedestrians are the most vulnerable. At 30 km/h, they have an 85% chance of survival. At 50 km/h, only 15%. At 60 km/h, the chance of survival is almost zero. The Ministry of Mobility also stresses the need for better infrastructure, urging local authorities to create calmer traffic zones and ensure consistent, visible signage according to national safety guidelines. Mobility Minister Yuriko Backes highlighted that “every second of distraction can have dramatic consequences and, in the worst case, cost a life.” She emphasized that pedestrians must not be forgotten in road safety policies. The campaign, available in French, English, and Luxembourgish, focuses on three key risky behaviors: Mobile phone use while driving or walking Headphone distractions Screens inside vehicles It also reminds that two-thirds of vehicle-pedestrian accidents occur at night, reinforcing the importance of wearing reflective clothing or accessories, echoing the previous campaign “Soyez visibles – Sidd siichtbar.” Starting 27 October 2025, the campaign will be visible across social media, television, cinemas, and digital platforms, aiming to remind everyone that one second of attention can save a life. Read More : "One second can cost a life." Luxembourg launches campaign on crosswalk safety | Contact Join the community of your own - #1 home-grown LuxExpats app SignUp Free : luxembourgexpats.lu   

The European Public Prosecutor’s Office (EPPO), headquartered in Luxembourg, has uncovered a large-scale VAT fraud scheme involving a network of shell companies operating across multiple European countries. The coordinated investigation led to the arrest of seven suspects in Germany, Spain, and the Netherlands, with authorities estimating the total tax loss at €48 million. The case centers on the trade of electronic goods, where suspects allegedly abused a reduced VAT regime by falsely declaring new electronic devices as second-hand, allowing them to benefit from tax advantages reserved for pre-taxed goods. According to EPPO, this manipulation not only caused significant tax losses but also distorted fair market competition across the European Union. As part of the investigation, more than 100 searches were carried out across Czechia, Germany, Hungary, Ireland, Italy, the Netherlands, Romania, Spain, and the United Kingdom. In total, over 300 tax inspectors and police officers participated in the operation, seizing cash, documents, electronic devices, mobile phones, luxury cars, jewellery, watches, and gold valued at around €4 million. Investigators also seized assets and evidence in Luxembourg, Belgium, Austria, Lithuania, and other EU states, underlining the cross-border nature of the fraudulent network. The EPPO revealed that since 2018, the suspects have been using shell companies registered in multiple jurisdictions to conceal profits and evade taxes. The extensive international cooperation highlights the growing efficiency of European anti-fraud operations, with EPPO emphasizing its commitment to tackling VAT fraud schemes that exploit loopholes in the EU’s internal market. Read More : Fraude à la TVA: le Parquet européen démantèle un réseau de sociétés-écrans - L'essentiel   Join the community of your own - #1 home-grown LuxExpats app SignUp Free : luxembourgexpats.lu   

A major infrastructure upgrade took place this weekend in Bettembourg, where a new 60-metre bridge was successfully installed as part of the A3 motorway expansion project. The bridge will soon provide a safe and efficient link between the town’s eastern and western districts. The operation involved the complete dismantling of the old pedestrian bridge, which had become too small to remain in place after the motorway’s widening to three lanes. Over the weekend, two massive cranes were used to carefully remove the old structure and position the new one — a precise and complex engineering task carried out smoothly. The new bridge is a single-piece steel construction, requiring no welding, and has been designed for durability and safety. At 60 metres in length and three metres in width, it is about 20 metres longer than the previous footbridge. The added width now allows pedestrians and cyclists to cross simultaneously in both directions, while also providing enough space for emergency vehicles to pass — a key improvement over the old bridge. To complete the installation safely, the A3 motorway was fully closed in both directions between the Gasperich and Bettembourg interchanges from Friday evening until Monday morning. Once operational, the new bridge will not only enhance local mobility but also contribute to safer and more connected travel for residents, cyclists, and first responders in Bettembourg. Join the community of your own - #1 home-grown LuxExpats app SignUp Free : luxembourgexpats.lu   

A start-up in Marseille is working on an innovative and sustainable idea — transforming human urine into agricultural fertilizer. The approach could significantly reduce the environmental impact and production costs of conventional fertilizers, offering a greener alternative for the future of farming. A Circular Approach to Agriculture For the past three years, two engineers at Ehotil, a Marseille-based start-up, have been developing a unique process to stabilize and purify urine so it can be safely and effectively used by plants. Their goal is to make the product odorless, nutrient-rich, and compliant with fertilizer market standards, says the company’s president, Stéphane de Lacroix de Lavalette. The start-up recently expanded from a small lab to a larger production site in northern Marseille, where it plans to build its first industrial-scale production unit. “We want to demonstrate that this can work beyond the lab — that large-scale production is feasible,” explains Emmanuel Morin, Ehotil’s managing director. Why Urine? Experts describe this idea as “logical.” According to Fabien Esculier, an engineer at the University of Créteil who studies the agricultural reuse of human waste, the nutrients found in urine — nitrogen, phosphorus, and potassium — are the same essential elements that plants need for growth. “When we eat grains or vegetables, our body uses the nutrients but eventually releases them,” he says. “Recovering those nutrients and returning them to the soil completes the natural cycle.” From Waste to Resource The process begins with the collection and storage of urine, which is kept for several weeks to sanitize it naturally. The next step, called nitrification, is key to stabilizing the nitrogen compounds. The urine is placed in glass tanks and gradually oxidized, preventing nitrogen loss and unpleasant smells. The end product is a brownish liquid fertilizer, slightly thicker than water, that resembles traditional fertilizers in texture. Unlike conventional fertilizers — often produced from natural gas (for nitrogen) or mined minerals (for phosphorus and potassium) — this method relies entirely on renewable biological resources. Reducing Emissions and Pollution Using human urine as a fertilizer could have a double environmental benefit: it reduces the need for fossil-fuel-based fertilizers and cuts pollution from wastewater. Research shows that around 40% of nitrogen in wastewater currently ends up in rivers, contributing to environmental degradation. Repurposing urine could help capture those nutrients instead of letting them pollute waterways. Challenges in Collection Despite the potential, logistical barriers remain. Large-scale urine collection requires special dry or separation toilets, which are rare in cities. For now, Ehotil collects urine from local events, such as music festivals, to run its tests. The company hopes to soon equip public buildings and shopping centers with dry toilets to secure a steady supply source. A Step Toward Sustainable Fertilizer Although Ehotil has not yet announced a launch date for its fertilizer, its progress represents a promising shift toward circular and sustainable agriculture. By transforming human waste into valuable nutrients for crops, the start-up demonstrates how innovation and ecology can go hand in hand — turning an everyday resource into a potential solution for the planet’s growing agricultural and environmental challenges. Read More : Fertilisation durable : une start-up française mise sur l'urine pour les cultures de demain - L'essentiel Join the community of your own - #1 home-grown LuxExpats app SignUp Free : luxembourgexpats.lu   

The Grand Duke Guillaume and Grand Duchess Stéphanie were warmly received in Brussels on Friday during their first official foreign visit since the Grand Duke’s accession to the throne. Around 300 to 400 people gathered at the Royal Palace to witness the historic event, marking a moment of renewed friendship between Luxembourg and Belgium. The day began in the Royal Park, where the Belgian royal escort and military units prepared to welcome the new Luxembourg head of state. The Grand Ducal couple was greeted by King Philippe and Queen Mathilde in a ceremony aimed at strengthening the historical, political, and cultural ties between the two nations. Crowds lined the Place des Palais, with families, students, and tourists eager to catch a glimpse of the royal visitors. Among them were Belgian retirees Jean and Monique, who shared, “It was important for us to attend this first visit. We’re pleased the Grand Ducal couple chose Belgium—this strengthens the bond between our countries. And since Grand Duchess Stéphanie is Belgian, it’s a source of pride.” Other spectators, like Françoise, discovered the event by chance. “We were going to see an exhibition nearby and were drawn by the music,” she said, adding that she found it encouraging to see “a young monarch who feels closer to the people.” For royal enthusiast Valentin Dupont, the visit was unmissable. The 33-year-old Brussels native, who runs a blog dedicated to European royalty, took a day off to attend. “I started following the Luxembourg monarchy because of the family ties between the two royal houses,” he explained. The ceremonial welcome featured military honors and the national anthems of both countries, symbolizing the unity between the two monarchies. One royal palace official remarked in surprise, “I’ve been working here for eleven years. I’ve never seen so many people.” The pleasant weather, the young royal couple, and the recent change of throne were all credited for the unusually high turnout. Following the ceremony at the Royal Palace, the Grand Duke visited the Palace of the Nation, where he was received by Vincent Blondel, President of the Belgian Senate. The Grand Duke toured the Federal Parliament, which consists of the Chamber of Representatives (150 members) and the Senate (60 members), the latter now serving mainly as a “chamber of reflection” following constitutional reforms. After an hour-long visit, the first international trip of Grand Duke Guillaume concluded successfully. The courtesy visits will continue in the coming weeks, with the Grand Duke scheduled to travel to Berlin on Monday to meet German President Frank-Walter Steinmeier and First Lady Elke Büdenbender. The visit not only highlighted the close historical and cultural connections between Luxembourg and Belgium but also underscored the popularity and fresh energy of Luxembourg’s new monarchs, marking a strong start to their reign on the European stage. Read More : Visit of the Grand Ducal couple to Belgium: "We have never seen so many people" | The Daily Join the community of your own - #1 home-grown LuxExpats app SignUp Free : luxembourgexpats.lu   

The municipality of Junglinster is set to transform the “um Bichel” site, where the historic radio antennas have stood for nearly a century, into a new mixed-use urban district. An agreement has been signed between the municipality and the Ministry of Housing and Spatial Planning to create a master plan for the area, marking the beginning of a large-scale redevelopment effort. The project will reshape the 36-hectare site located between Junglinster’s village center and the area currently occupied by RTL’s transmission antennas. While the antennas will disappear from the landscape, the old broadcasting building from the 1930s—an important historical landmark—has been officially listed for heritage protection following a court decision. Designated as a “center of development and attraction,” Junglinster is among the municipalities identified for sustainable urban growth, combining good accessibility, services, and environmentally conscious planning. Similar agreements have been made with towns such as Steinfort, Roeser, Bertrange, and Lorentzweiler, all aimed at supporting the creation of new, affordable neighborhoods. As part of the agreement, Junglinster will receive technical support from the Ministry’s Urban Planning and Environment Facilitation Unit to organize an urban planning competition. Multidisciplinary teams of architects, engineers, and environmental experts will be invited to propose integrated and sustainable designs for the site. The development process will begin with detailed technical and environmental studies to define the project’s specifications. A jury will then evaluate the submitted proposals, and both the municipality and the State have pledged to ensure citizen participation and transparency throughout the process. The project’s feasibility will depend on key infrastructure conditions—effective management of wastewater, rainwater, and drinking water—as well as mobility and acoustic impact studies. The municipality also plans to assess future needs for schools, childcare centers, and local facilities to ensure balanced and sustainable growth. Beyond urban renewal, the project carries deep historical significance. The protected broadcasting building on the site played a crucial role during World War II. In 1942, radio technician and resistance member Edmond Goergen intercepted a Nazi message announcing the forced conscription of Luxembourgers into the German army, sparking the famous General Strike of 1942. Arrested and deported, Goergen later survived and became a respected artist. As Junglinster moves toward the future, the project promises to blend urban innovation with heritage preservation—turning a once-industrial site into a symbol of modern, sustainable living rooted in history. Read More : Junglinster: Un projet de quartier mixte remplace les antennes de RTL - L'essentiel Join the community of your own - #1 home-grown LuxExpats app SignUp Free : luxembourgexpats.lu   

Luxembourg’s banking sector is preparing a major change in how residents access cash. The Association of Banks and Bankers Luxembourg (ABBL) announced that a first test phase of a shared ATM network, known as the LuxConstellation project, will begin in the first quarter of 2026. According to ABBL CEO Jerry Grbic, the initiative aims to improve national ATM coverage by adapting to new population and urban development patterns. “There’s no point in having three ATMs on the same street while new residential areas have none,” Grbic explained. The project also seeks to enhance safety, accessibility, and service quality. The shared ATM network is being created through a collaboration between Spuerkeess, BIL, BGL BNP Paribas, Raiffeisen, POST, and ING, which announced their partnership in late 2023. These banks will jointly manage the new system through an operator named Bancomat, which will oversee the replacement of older machines and the rollout of a new unified logo for all ATMs. The ABBL assured the public that this reform “will not cost more” for customers. “Banks will not be able to use this pooling as an excuse to raise fees,” said Claude Hirtzig, chairman of ABBL’s retail banking cluster. Each bank will continue to apply its own pricing policies independently. In 2024, Luxembourg had 380 ATMs — down 8% from 415 in 2023 — reflecting a broader European trend toward reduced cash usage. Cash withdrawals fell by 7% over the same period, while 95% of payments in Luxembourg can now be made without cash, placing the country second in Europe for digital payment readiness. However, despite the digital shift, cash remains important to many residents. A European Central Bank study found that 50% of Luxembourg’s population still wants to keep the option of paying in cash, though only 13% report difficulty accessing it. To address this, new ATMs are planned for more remote areas, reducing the average travel time to cash access points. “Online transfers are up 11% in 2024, and mobile payments are growing fast,” noted Grbic. Still, Hirtzig emphasized that “banking will not become entirely digital — each institution will adapt based on its strategy and customer preferences. Read More : Luxembourg: Withdrawing money from ATMs won't cost more - The bottom line Join the community of your own - #1 home-grown LuxExpats app SignUp Free : luxembourgexpats.lu