The newest ruler in Europe has given his first Christmas speech and urged everyone to work together to create a more unified society.
Grand Duke Guillaume of Luxembourg, whose reign started on October 3 2025, gave his festive address to his country for the first time on Christmas Eve 2025 and spoke of his desire for cohesion.
In a moving message, which touched on many symbols of Christmas including the star on the tree, Guillaume began by addressing his audience as fellow citizens before thanking them for the support they had given him in the months since he took Luxembourg’s throne following the abdication of his father, Henri.
Grand Duke Henri had announced his plans to abdicate in the 2024 Christmas address and his son’s first festive speech was also focused on continuity.
Guillaume had special words for all those who care for others, saying ”Christmas encourages us to go beyond ourselves, to care for those in need, so that no one is left isolated and the warmth of solidarity illuminates every home.”
The new Grand Duke, who is just three months into his reign, noted that ”In a small country, we are not just neighbours, we are a family. A family where everyone has their place, their voice, their responsibility. A family that makes us strong, because it is based on trust, solidarity and cohesion.”
And he added ”This is the strength of our country: small in size, but great in unity.”
Grand Duke Guillaume gave his address in front of a portrait of his wife, Stephanie, which was painted to mark his accession.
And he said ”With my wife, Grand Duchess Stéphanie, we try to be present as much as possible on the ground, with you” before looking ahead to special visits they will make around Luxembourg in 2026, saying ” we are already looking forward to sharing these moments with you, to celebrating together these values that bring us together and define us as a nation.”
The newest ruler in Europe ended by saying ”May the year ahead be one in which we grow closer to one another. Together, we can build a future that reflects the best of who we are.”
Luxembourg’s ruler always gives their Christmas speech on December 24 as does the King of the Belgians, who is a close relation of Guillaume. King Felipe of Spain also addresses his country on Christmas Eve.
