About this Episode
A study by Luxembourg Institute of Socio-Economic Research highlights the growing internationalisation—but also high turnover—of the workforce in Luxembourg, where nearly 90% of new workers in 2024 were born abroad. While cross-border commuting from France is increasing, flows from Belgium and Germany are declining. The data also reveals strong mobility, with around 30% of newcomers leaving the labour market within a year and roughly half departing the country within five years, underlining challenges in long-term retention.
Talks on the minimum wage in Luxembourg have exposed a clear divide between unions and employers, as ministers including Marc Spautz meet social partners under pressure from an EU directive. Trade unions are calling for a significant 12.7% structural increase—arguing current levels do not ensure a decent standard of living—while employer groups such as the Union des Entreprises Luxembourgeoises warn such a rise would be unsustainable and instead favour targeted financial aid. With only a modest increase currently forecast, the outcome remains uncertain and will depend on ongoing negotiations and economic assessments.
Passengers in Luxembourg should expect disruptions on major rail lines during the Easter holidays, as CFL carries out maintenance work from 28 March to 12 April. Train services will be partially suspended on key routes including Luxembourg City–Esch/Alzette–Rodange, Luxembourg City–Ettelbruck–Troisvierges–Gouvy, and Luxembourg City–Kleinbettingen–Arlon, with replacement buses and existing RGTR and TICE services stepping in to cover affected sections. Travellers are advised to allow extra time due to possible road delays, while the works—mainly track renewals and general upkeep—aim to improve the long-term reliability of the network.
