The Cercle Culturel des Institutions Européennes (EU Cultural Circle) is the umbrella organisation for around 35 clubs and associations affiliated to the European Institutions in Luxembourg.
From music and theatre to chess and wine, there is a variety of clubs for individuals with different interests. Membership and participation in the clubs’ and associations' activities, is also open to people not working in the European Institutions.
In this series of articles, Chronicle.lu explores some of the different clubs and associations of the Cercle Culturel, including their main activities, interests, membership and events.
Next up is the Chess Club, where Chronicle.lu talked with Sietske Greeuw, Club Secretary.
Chronicle.lu: When and why was the club founded, and what are its main goals and objectives?
Sietske Greeuw: The chess club is long-established, having been founded some 40 or more years ago. Its main objective is to provide a relaxed and convivial environment in which its members can both play social chess and seek to improve their chess-playing abilities, in particular by discussion and analysis of games played and of other material.
Chronicle.lu: What is the main language of the club and how many nationalities are members of the club?
Sietske Greeuw: The language mainly used in the club is English. More than a dozen different nationalities are [represented] by the club’s current membership.
Chronicle.lu: How often do you meet and where?
Sietske Greeuw: The club meets every Thursday evening from 20:30 onwards, at the Foyer Européen in Rue Heine [Luxembourg Gare].
Chronicle.lu: What is your main target audience?
Sietske Greeuw: The target membership comprises chess players of all levels, from players fairly new to the game to strong club players.
Chronicle.lu: How has membership grown over the years and has membership increased since Cercle Culturel began admitting members who are not working in EU institutions? What percentage of your members are not employed by the EU institutions (if known)?
Sietske Greeuw: Membership numbers have remained fairly stable over the years. Members who neither currently work in the EU institutions nor are retired EU officials account for roughly 10% of the current membership.
Chronicle.lu: What events are your club planning or participating in during the coming months?
Sietske Greeuw: The club’s events in the coming months will primarily consist of the regular Thursday evening gatherings.
Chronicle.lu: How can someone who is interested in the club’s activities become a member?
Sietske Greeuw: Anybody interested in becoming a member of the club should contact the club’s secretary at the email address specified on https://www.cercleculturel.lu/Echecs/index_en.htm, or may alternatively simply turn up at the Foyer Européen on a Thursday evening.
Chronicle.lu: Are there different classes/different levels for beginners through to more experienced members?
Sietske Greeuw: The activities every Thursday evening are dictated by the wishes and abilities of those present. However, the club does not offer courses for beginners.
