HRH Grand Duke Henri;
Credit: © Cour grand-ducale / Sophie Margue
In his annual Christmas Message broadcast on Christmas Eve, HRH the Grand Duke recalled the recent centenary commemorations of the end of World War I which he attended in Paris, and the nearly 20 million lives lost as a result of the conflict.
Since then the world changed. Unfortunately, after another twenty-five years, another world began. With the cooperation between nations and people, a new system had to be introduced, with rules that must respect all nations, whether large or small, in the same way, and also with international organisations where states collaborate. The "Société des Nations", the forerunner of the UN, was founded. However, the crisis in nationalism and the 1930s did not allow this system to develop. Only after World War II did such international co-operation ever win favour.
In the world today, multilateralism, i.e. co-operation and equality between states, is more important than ever, including for trade, climate change, etc. He referred to Luxembourg diplomacy which has the respect of international law, and has seen enhancement of multilateral cooperation. He referred to COP24 in Katowice and hopes that countries can continue on from the preliminary work achieved.
He also referred to the recent general election in the autumn and the new coalition government and the new period of legislature, wishing the government well.
He added "We must be proud of the diversity and cohesion of our society." He acknowledged the many members of our society who are in crisis, and the people who are in the emergency services. He referred to solidarity and social commitment, also mentioned the work of the Grand Duchess who engages with many people, notably in the fight against sexual violence, particular in matters that lead to war and conflict.
