Christos Floros

Blog

  • From Luxembourg to Ukraine: Unity and Solidarity

    From Luxembourg to Ukraine: Unity and Solidarity

    Luxembourg’s population might seem like a mere speck amidst the vastness of our world, and the European Union’s share stands at just 5.7%… it’s easy to feel small and insignificant.

    But beneath those percentages lies a truth that can’t be ignored: unity is our strength, and together, we hold the power to shape our shared future and continue building our democratic, liberal, fairer world.

    To honour Ukraine’s national day right here in Luxembourg I joined LUkraine, and the Ukrainian community in Luxembourg at Hesperange park yesterday afternoon.

    I was and continue to be incredible inspired by the resilience of the Ukrainian people.

    The air yesterday was electric with an undeniable revolutionary, yet peaceful, energy. The blue and yellow colours, the laughter, the camaraderie, the kites.

    Their dedication, their passion, and their determination to bring a piece of their homeland to Luxembourg, whilst fighting and fundraising for their people back home, was and is nothing short of inspiring.

    It was more than a celebration; it was a declaration of unity, a resounding reminder that distance could never sever the ties that bind them to their homeland, even as many of them have made Luxembourg their home.

    But beyond the joyous festivities, the shadows of a somber reality loom.

    The war in Ukraine has left over 150,000 homes either destroyed or damaged – a staggering number that eclipses the entirety of Luxembourg’s housing units (roughly 130,000 units).

    Numbers alone can’t capture the gravity of the situation. The sacrifices made by more than 70,000 Ukrainian soldiers – a toll greater than the entire Luxembourgish military personnel 60 times over – showcases an unwavering dedication to defending their homeland. And alongside them, over 9,000 civilians have so far lost their lives, innocent souls caught in the crossfire of conflict.

    The enormity of this loss hits me like a wave, underscoring the urgency of our support for a nation that is fighting for its survival.

    The Ukrainian people, in the face of unimaginable adversity, are showing an incredible spirit of unity, resilience, and hope. Their celebration in Luxembourg wasn’t just about honouring their national day; it was a symbol of their unyielding spirit and a message of solidarity to their compatriots back home.

    The war and our response to the war in Ukraine is a stark reminder that our world is interconnected, and our responsibilities extend beyond borders.

    Our political leaders bear the duty to continuously communicate why supporting Ukraine is more than a gesture of goodwill; it’s a stand for the very principles that define our modern world – democracy, human rights, and international law.

    The very principles Ukraine is defending.

    We may be a small nation, but we must be proud for the support our country has given and continues to give our Eastern neighbours, both directly, and through the European Union.

    And we must continue to support Ukraine, until this war is won, and Ukraine’s people are free, and its sovereign territory, entirely liberated.

  • 1 in 3 Luxembourgers is a naturalised citizen.

    1 in 3 Luxembourgers is a naturalised citizen.

    1 in 3 Luxembourgish citizens here in the heart of Europe, in Luxembourg, is now a naturalized citizen. 1 in 2 residents is a non-citizen. 3 in 4 people working in Luxembourg are non-citizens. 🇱🇺

    These facts are not just about numbers; it represents the tapestry of stories, cultures, and dreams that make up our country.

    Looking ahead to 2030, the proportion of naturalised citizens, is set to grow even more, transforming our society and enriching our collective experience. But what does this mean for us as Luxembourgish citizens? And for our democracy?

    It’s not just a demographic shift; it’s a call to action. As our society diversifies, it’s our shared responsibility to ensure that all voices are heard and considered in the decisions that shape our democracy.

    I believe that every journey of immigration, every tale of growth, and every story of building a new life in Luxembourg adds a unique hue to the canvas of our nation. These perspectives are an opportunity to influence the very rules that guide our society.

    Our compatriots who’ve chosen Luxembourg as their new home have so much to offer. Their contributions aren’t just to be confined to workplaces; they must extend to our social leadership and democratic processes. The tapestry of perspectives they bring will help us in creating a more inclusive and harmonious Luxembourg.

    This brings us to an important thought: empowerment. We need to actively encourage more of our fellow citizens and residents to step into leadership roles.

    By doing so, we can tap into their diverse experiences and channel their passion and knowledge and perspectives into shaping our country’s bright, European future.

    As we gear up for the upcoming October vote, there’s a crucial point to consider. Your vote is your voice, and by connecting with the right people, you can vote tactically to support those who champion inclusivity and diversity and the true coming-together of our diverse, multicultural nation.

    It’s time to bridge the gap between citizens and leaders, to foster an environment where every perspective, old or new, is respected and valued.

    Luxembourg is evolving, and we’re all a part of this evolution. Let’s stand together, united in our commitment to embrace diversity, empower our fellow citizens, and pave the way for a future that’s brighter and more inclusive than ever before.

  • Le Quotidien Highlights our movement for inclusion

    Le Quotidien Highlights our movement for inclusion

    Le Quotidien, featured a front-page article on July 12 highlighting our efforts and initiative aiming to make politics more inclusive in Luxembourg.

    From the article: Christos Floros, a 29-year-old architect, has taken on the challenge of making politics accessible to all residents of Luxembourg, regardless of language barriers. Recognising that half of the population does not speak Luxembourgish, Floros is determined to bridge the gap and ensure that everyone’s voice is heard.

    “Change for Luxembourg, Change for Europe” seeks to address the underrepresentation of residents in the country’s political sphere. We advocate for inclusive decision-making and highlight the importance of politicians understanding the experiences of individuals who arrive in Luxembourg speaking various languages, settling here and making this country their home.

    To read the full article and learn more: https://lequotidien.lu/a-la-une/christos-floros-lance-son-mouvement-pour-inclure-les-etrangers-a-la-politique/

    Join the movement today and help create positive change for a more inclusive and diverse political system in Luxembourg and Europe.

  • Celebrating the British Luxembourg Society

    Celebrating the British Luxembourg Society

    Strengthening and Building European Connections

    Last week I had the pleasure of attending the British Luxembourg Society Summer Reception at the British Ambassador’s Residence.

    A wonderful event that also serves as a reminder of the importance of maintaining cultural and social connections between our nations. 🇱🇺🇬🇧

    Christos Floros with Amela Skenderovic (DP) at the British Luxembourg Society Summer Reception at the British Ambassador's Residence in 2023.
    Christos Floros with Amela Skenderovic and David Pierre Rausch.

    The British Luxembourg Society plays a crucial role in fostering connections between Britain and Luxembourg. It provides a space for individuals from all cultures and countries to come together and celebrate shared values, traditions, and history.

    The Summer Reception was a vibrant gathering of people united by a common interest in maintaining strong ties between our nations. The event served as a reminder that, despite political changes, there are people dedicated to building bridges and keeping our connections alive.

    Christos Floros with Luxembourg City Councillor Robert Philippart (Democratic Party, Renew Europe) at the British Luxembourg Society Summer Reception at the British Ambassador's Residence in 2023.
    Luxembourg City Councillor Robert Philippart with Christos Floros.

    A few words about the British Luxembourg Society

    The British Luxembourg Society has a rich history dating back to its establishment in 1947.

    Through the years, it has organised various events, including the prestigious Sir Winston Churchill Memorial Lecture, which has featured renowned speakers including last year former President of the European Commission and former Luxembourg Prime Minister Jean-Claude Juncker.

    This commitment to cultural exchange and promoting bridges is a testament to the dedication of the Society and its members. I have been so lucky to be serving as a Council Member for the last 2 years.

    I would like to express my sincere appreciation to Darren Robinson, the President of the British Luxembourg Society, and Louise Benjamin, the President of the Society until this term, for their remarkable leadership and vision. Their efforts have been instrumental in driving the Society’s growth and impact.

    I believe we would all like to extend our gratitude to all the attendees of the Summer Reception, whose presence and enthusiasm made the event truly special. Furthermore, we would of course want to acknowledge and thank our sponsors whose support enables the Society to continue its valuable community-building work.

    As we move forward, it is essential to remember the importance of organisations like the British Luxembourg Society in fostering understanding and connection. By expanding our range of activities and embracing individuals from all cultures and countries, the Society is opening doors for a more diverse and inclusive community.

    Together, we continue to celebrate our shared values and build a future that embraces unity and collaboration between Britain and Luxembourg, and contribute to Luxembourg’s rich cultural tapestry.

  • How will Luxembourg’s political parties address Housing?

    How will Luxembourg’s political parties address Housing?

    I asked all parties in Luxembourg’s Parliament to reply to simple questions, and give answers to the crucial issue of Housing. They replied.

    Here’s what they had to say: videos, text and self-rated commitments from the CSV, the LSAP, the Democratic Party, the Pirates and the Greens. The ADR and the Left did not reply to the questionnaire.

  • A conversation with Vice-President Marc Angel

    A conversation with Vice-President Marc Angel

    Watch on RTL PLAY

    The newly elected Vice-President of the European Parliament, Marc Angel says he will work hard to restore trust in the institution.

    Marc Angel is an MEP from Luxembourg, a former MP and City Councillor for Luxembourg City. He replaced Eva Kaili as Vice-President of the European Parliament following the 2022 Qatargate scandal.

    In this episode he discusses his career, his new role, and his political vision for Europe, as he vows to work hard to restore trust in the European Parliament and doubles down on his commitment to an empowered European Union.

    Next episode coming February 7 2023.

    Conversations with Christos is a TV series that I created with RTL. I have meaningful conversations with public figures from Luxembourg and Europe to make their work and lives more accessible to you.

    Christos Floros in conversation with European Parliament Vice-President Marc Angel in 2023.
    Christos Floros in conversation with European Parliament Vice-President Marc Angel in 2023.