The Luxembourg Secretary of State for Defence, Francine Closener, has announced changes regarding volunteer soldiers’ contracts.
On 22 December 2016, during the traditional ‘Christmas Vigil’ at the Diekirch military centre, minister Francine Closener announced changes to affect volunteer soldiers. Also in attendance on this occasion was General Romain Mancinelli, the army chief of state, along with several other members of the civil and military army.
During her speech, Francine Closener announced changes such as increasing the age restriction of potential volunteer soldiers. Moreover, she stated that: “The selection procedure for candidates will be increased from two to three days so as to better highlight their psychological aptitudes.”
It will also be made easier to leave the army before and during the redeployment phases which normally lasts one year. The aim of these changes is to make the career of a soldier more appealing.
General Romain Mancinelli decalred that: “Geopolitical instability, which cannot be solved by political solutions alone, creates the perpetual engagement of the army.” He added that now is the time to “focus on collective defence.”
Finally, during the prize ceremony, awards were given to the best army school student, winners of inter-company competitions and military championships, and sports winners. The army also gave donations to three charities: CARITAS Centre DPI Diekirch, Service Krank Kanner Doheem, and the Red Cross’ Unité cycotechnique.
Photo byLuxembourg Army. From left to right: General Romain Mancinelli, army chief of state; Francine Closener, Secretary of State for Defence; Colonel Yves Kalme, military centre commander
