A new era is dawning in Luxembourg. Starting October 3, when Grand Duke Henri officially hands over the reins of power to his son Guillaume, a completely different chapter will begin for the royal couple. Ahead of this historic event, his wife, Grand Duchess Maria Teresa, has decided to share her thoughts on the future, the present, and the lessons of the past, offering the public her vision for the years ahead.
Maria Teresa, a figure known for her complexity, has recently made efforts to turn the page on the more challenging moments of her reign. This especially concerns the aftermath of the Waringo report, which once revealed the tense atmosphere at court and high staff turnover, allegedly caused by her difficult character. Now, the duchess prefers to focus on positive changes and new horizons.
She looks to the future with optimism, describing it as a time to find ‘new freedom.’ According to her, she and her husband are preparing to enjoy a second youth and, in some ways, a renewed honeymoon. In good health, the couple plans to travel extensively and, most importantly, finally spend quality time with their large family. These plans signal a departure from the strict protocols and official duties that have shaped their lives for decades.
Looking back, the wife of the outgoing monarch touched on the topic of raising their five children, calling it a serious challenge. The main task was to give each of them equal attention and prevent jealousy toward the eldest son, the heir to the throne Guillaume. She admitted that for a long time she struggled with guilt, believing that her busy schedule of state duties left her with too little time for the children. However, over time, she managed to find inner harmony. The key was the ability to be fully present in the moment: when she was with her children, she thought only of them, and while performing official duties, she focused exclusively on her role as Grand Duchess.
She applies this principle in her interactions with her nine grandchildren as well, with whom she has developed very warm and trusting relationships. But her rest will not be passive. The Grand Duchess plans to fully immerse herself in humanitarian work. While her husband will focus on environmental issues, she will continue to develop her foundation for supporting those in need in Luxembourg and beyond. A special place in her heart belongs to the association ‘Stand Speak Rise Up!’, created to combat sexual violence as a weapon of war. Maria Teresa sees it as her duty to empower women who have survived violence and to ensure a dignified future for children born as a result of war crimes. She describes herself as a hyperactive person and asserts that she will never abandon her mission.
