Luxembourg: A Multicultural Mosaic in the Heart of Europe

Luxembourg, a small yet vibrant nation nestled in the heart of Europe, boasts a remarkable population characterized by its cultural diversity and international appeal. Despite being the second least populous country in the European Union, Luxembourg has cultivated a unique identity that seamlessly blends its native inhabitants with a substantial foreign community. This paper delves into the fascinating demographic landscape of Luxembourg, exploring its population growth, multicultural composition, and the significant contributions of various nationalities to the country’s social and economic fabric.

Population Growth and Diversity

1. Steady Population Increase
   • Luxembourg’s population has nearly doubled over the past five decades, reaching 660,809 as of January 1, 2023.
   • The country experiences robust annual population growth, with a notable 15,412 increase in 2022 alone.
2. A Multicultural Tapestry
   • Luxembourg’s population comprises 347,402 Luxembourg nationals and 313,400 foreign nationals, with the latter constituting 47.4% of the total population.
   • The percentage of foreign inhabitants has risen steadily since the early 20th century, contributing significantly to overall population growth.

Major Foreign Communities

1. Portuguese: The Largest Foreign Community
   • The Portuguese community, numbering 92,101 individuals, represents 13.94% of Luxembourg’s population as of January 2023.
   • Portuguese immigration to Luxembourg surged post-World War II, driven by the desire to escape dictatorship and poverty in Portugal.
2. French: The Second-Largest Foreign Group
   • As of January 2023, Luxembourg was home to 49,104 French residents, comprising 7.43% of the population.
   • The French community has experienced a 56.1% increase since the 2011 population census.
3. Italians: A Resurgent Presence
   • Luxembourg counted 24,676 Italian residents, constituting 3.73% of the population as of January 2023.
   • The Italian population has seen a resurgence in recent years, surpassing its 1970 peak in 2021.
4. Belgians and Germans: Significant Contributions
   • Belgians constitute the fourth-largest foreign community, with 19,205 individuals accounting for 2.91% of the population.
   • Germans rank as the fifth-largest foreign community, with 12,678 residents representing 1.92% of the population.

Other Notable Communities

1. Muslims in Luxembourg
   • The Muslim population in Luxembourg is estimated to be around 40,000 individuals, constituting approximately 6% of the country’s total population.
   • Over half of Luxembourg’s Muslim community comprises individuals of Bosnian, Kosovar, or Albanian origin.
2. Jewish Community
   • The history of Jews in Luxembourg dates back to 1276, with the community experiencing both growth and decline throughout the centuries.
   • Today, approximately 700 Jews, comprising around 300 to 350 families, reside in Luxembourg.
3. Latin Americans and Eastern Europeans
   • The Latin American community, while relatively small, contributes to Luxembourg’s vibrant cultural tapestry.
   • Eastern European immigration, particularly from Ukraine, has seen a significant increase in recent years.

Conclusion

Luxembourg’s population is a testament to the country’s embrace of multiculturalism and its ability to attract individuals from diverse backgrounds. The substantial presence of foreign communities, each with their unique histories and contributions, has enriched Luxembourg’s social, economic, and cultural landscape. As the country continues to grow and evolve, its multicultural identity remains a defining feature, showcasing the potential for harmonious coexistence in an increasingly interconnected world.

Read more: https://luxtoday.lu/en/knowledge/luxembourgs-population-in-2024