The dialogue becomes a minor matter

« We are just as smart as at the beginning of the ‘Schwätz Mat’ campaign. » Brought with these words CGFP President Romain Wolff The disappointment of many to the point. The participatory process on pension reform has become a « sham debate », he said last week. This assessment is hard, but it is not alone.

The « État de la nation » was clearly structured and precisely formulated in many points. But he raises as many questions as he answers. Luc Frieden Following his political ideas, but instead of looking for the dialogue, a lot seemed to be decided.

That was particularly clear on the subject Pension reform. People would have to work longer in the future, it said. There were no concrete figures. This announcement surprised many outside the government and in their own ranks.

Unclear in the coalition

DP party president Carole Hartmann told 100.7 that she was « not inaugurated down to the last detail ». Party colleague Gérard Schockmel Exposed itself similarly there, did not want to comment on the « Luxembourg word » when asked. Gilles Baum, leader of the DP, said in the RTL « Kloertext » that he had only learned about the pension plans in the speech himself. The Premier and Minister Lex Delles (DP) emphasized Opposite the LWthe coalition partners were informed.

This contradiction leaves space for interpretations. In the coalition, there is apparently a need for coordination both in terms of content and communicative. LSAP MP Taina Bofferding found sharp words in the « Kloertext »: « Luc Frieden is not a team player. He makes decisions and if you are lucky you will be informed. » Especially with such a sensitive topic as retirement provision, political and social consensus is crucial.

While from the population at most, there are criticism of the back and forth OGBL and LCGB consequences drawn: You no longer want to participate in further discussions with the government about the pension reform. However, Minister of Social Security Martine Deprez (CSV) announced that it would continue the discussions by summer. Instead, the unions demand a return to the tripartite.

The disappointment with dealing with the social dialogue is great. From the point of view of the social partners, formats such as expert groups do not replace the conversation between the government, employers and employees.

In the past, Luxembourg has proven that even difficult reforms can succeed if they are worn together. For this, openness, transparency and the will to take different perspectives seriously. The general strike planned for June 28 is not just an expression of dissatisfaction. He is a memory of how important it is not only to promise the dialogue, but also to lead. And this dialogue is more important than ever today.