Human Dignity in Luxembourg

Abstract

Luxembourg's current Constitution does not refer to Human Dignity but several Acts of Parliament do so, without providing any comprehensive definition. This lacuna is partially filled with Luxembourg's strong commitment to European and International law. Two of the main characteristics of Luxembourg's legal order: its attachment to monism and pragmatism show up in this regard. The Grand Duchy is not only a contracting party to numerous international treaties that guarantee the respect for Human Dignity; its Representatives have always strongly advocated the need to protect Human Dignity worldwide. Domestic authorities, when applying EU law, need to grant the protection of Human Dignity as it is enshrined in the EU Charter of Fundamental Rights. It is up to the national judges to determine the content of Human Dignity on a case by case basis.