David Pereira, Amnesty International Luxembourg; Elisabeth Margue, Luxembourg Minister of Justice; Xavier Turquin, Greenpeace Luxembourg; Emile Espen, Ecological Movement; Credit: MJUST

On Thursday 18 December 2025, Amnesty International Luxembourg reported that Luxembourg-based civil society organisation Voĉo had submitted an analysis of the law on non-profit associations (ASBL) and foundations to Minister of Justice Elisabeth Margue.

Amnesty International said that during a meeting on Monday 15 December 2025, Voĉo presented various elements and topics that have a tangible impact on associations and foundations in their operations, in relation to the law on non-profit associations (ASBL) and foundations of 7 August 2023. These included:

• the vulnerability of small associations in relation to legal obligations, administrative burdens and the requirements and costs associated with annual account audits by a certified statutory auditor;

• the unnecessary inclusion of the municipality of establishment of associations in their statutes;

• the limitation of the collegiate principle and the requirement for unanimous decisions when resolutions are adopted remotely;

• the need for co-option of members;

• the need for clarification regarding the role and governance of the board of directors;

• the interest of civil society in participating in discussions that concern it.

While Voĉo said it recognised that the adaptation phase will take time, it noted it is clear that associations are already significantly affected.

Voĉo emphasised that the spirit of the law should reflect the crucial role of associations in civil society. These organisations aim to bring together all citizens, regardless of their skills, strengths or vulnerabilities, to enable engagement for a cause. Implementing a restrictive framework that discourages civic engagement and limits active citizen participation would therefore be regrettable.

Voĉo thanked Minister Margue and her team for their welcome, attentive listening, constructive exchanges and interest in the points raised, as well as for recognising the ministry’s need for increased awareness.

Voĉo stated it remains available to continue supporting this project in a close and collaborative manner.