Luxembourg Marks 10 Years Since Charlie Hebdo Solidarity Rally

On January 8, 2015, more than a thousand people gathered at Place Clairefontaine in Luxembourg City to express solidarity following the deadly attack on the offices of French satirical magazine Charlie Hebdo. The spontaneous rally, held the day after the attack, brought together politicians, journalists, and citizens from across Luxembourg to honor the victims and defend freedom of expression.

The attack on January 7, 2015, which claimed the lives of 12 people, including journalists and police officers, shocked the world. In Luxembourg, the rally at Place Clairefontaine saw participants holding signs reading “Je suis Charlie” and “Liberté d’expression, car on est tous Charlie.” Among the attendees were then-Prime Minister Xavier Bettel, members of the government, and Grand Duchess Maria Teresa.

Xavier Bettel, visibly moved, addressed the crowd after a minute of silence, stating, “I am proud of the Luxembourgers. I am proud that so many hundreds and thousands of people came here spontaneously to show that the values we defend, this democracy we fight for, are not alone. And that journalistic freedom is a fundamental right that no one can destroy.”

Other notable figures present included then-Justice Minister Félix Braz, Family Minister Corinne Cahen, and then-President of the Chamber of Deputies Mars Di Bartolomeo. The rally was one of many held across Europe in the wake of the attack, with millions participating in solidarity marches in France and beyond.

On January 11, 2015, a second rally took place at Place de la Constitution in Luxembourg City, drawing nearly 2,000 people. The event coincided with the massive republican marches in France, which saw world leaders and millions of citizens unite in a show of defiance against terrorism.

Ten years later, Lynn Warken, president of Luxembourg’s Press Council and current director of Lëtzebuerger Journal, reflected on the period. She described it as a “great challenge” and recalled the “indescribable” emotions of the time. While she noted no major restrictions on press freedom in Luxembourg since the attack, she expressed concern about the broader implications for journalists worldwide.

The Charlie Hebdo attack remains a stark reminder of the importance of defending freedom of expression and the risks faced by journalists globally. Luxembourg’s response, marked by unity and resilience, continues to resonate as a testament to the country’s commitment to democratic values.