Credit: Fondation Lëtzebuerger Kannerduerf
On Friday 27 February 2026, the Fondation Lëtzebuerger Kannerduerf announced the establishment of an Independent Expert Commission.
Composed of four experts, the commission was set up at the initiative of the foundation's Board of Directors, in consultation with the Executive Director. It will operate "autonomously, impartially and within a strict framework of confidentiality", according to the foundation. The commission's four members have expertise in the judicial, legal, psychological and medical fields, particularly in paediatrics.
The announcement follows allegations of sexual assault involving the foundation's now-retired director.
The Independent Expert Commission is tasked with assessing the existence, nature and extent of any potential abuse, identifying the affected individuals and analysing any potential organisational dysfunctions. To this end, the Commission will soon launch a call for testimonies, the details of which will be provided "at the appropriate time". This appeal will allow any concerned individual or witness to contact the commission securely and confidentially. The commission will examine the collected testimonies and establish the facts "in the most thorough and objective manner possible", without replacing the judicial authorities.
To ensure the rigorous conduct of the mission, the foundation's Board of Directors has also established an Internal Inquiry Commission. As its name indicates, this commission will conduct an internal investigation and compliance audit. It will examine the framework, processes and practices currently in place at the foundation to identify any potential shortcomings, weaknesses or deficiencies. Where appropriate, it will formulate recommendations aimed at strengthening compliance, governance and prevention. At the direction of the Independent Expert Commission, it will also conduct research to establish the factual elements necessary to verify the information received through testimonies.
The work of the Independent Expert Commission and the Internal Inquiry Commission will culminate in a joint final report, written and signed by the members of both commissions, and submitted to the foundation's Board of Directors. Their mandate is set for a period of twelve months, extendable if necessary, with interim reports to be issued during the course of their work.
Vincent Franck, Chairman of the Board of Directors, stated: "Together with the General Management of the Fondation Lëtzebuerger Kannerduerf, we are taking the information brought to our attention, which had been reported to the Public Prosecutor's Office, with the utmost seriousness. The decision to launch a call for testimonies and to establish an independent commission as well as an inquiry commission, is the logical consequence of our commitment to supporting the young people entrusted to our care and whom we have a duty to protect."
Valérie Oberlé, Executive Director, added: "It is our daily responsibility to ensure a safe, demanding and transparent environment for the children and young people entrusted to our care. The establishment of an Independent Expert Commission aligns with this requirement and aims to ensure that no question remains without careful and impartial examination."
The foundation reaffirmed that the protection of those affected remains a priority. Individuals who come forward will be informed of existing support mechanisms and, depending on identified needs, appropriate psychological, medical and social assistance will be offered. If any findings involve a criminal offence, they will be reported to the Prosecutor's Office in accordance with the legal framework. The foundation added that it reserves the right to take any necessary disciplinary measures against employees concerned.
Since 1968, the Fondation Lëtzebuerger Kannerduerf has supported children, young people and families in Luxembourg facing difficult life situations. Its reported mission is to guide every child and young person towards an autonomous, responsible and fulfilling life through day‑ and night‑care structures, as well as a range of socio‑paedagogical and psychological ambulatory services. Every year, the foundation supports more than 600 children, young people and families, with a team of over 200 professionals.
