The Hon. Erna Hennicot-Schoepges

(Former Speaker of the Parliament of Luxemburg; Former Culture Minister)

Biography

Erna Hennicot-Schoepges is a politician from Luxembourg and has been a Member of the European Parliament, sitting as a CSV member of the European People's Party.

Academic Career

The Hon. Erna Hennicot-Schoepges has an extensive history in cultural affairs. She was educated in Musical studies at the Conservatoire Royal de Musique in Brussels, for which she was awarded the gold medal as a pianist, and she also studied philosophy and literature in Salzburg and Luxembourg.

Political Career

Ms. Hennicot-Schoepges’ political career reflects her deep interest in culture as well as her commitment to civil affairs. Throughout her political career she was highly engaged in politics as a member of the Parliamentary Assembly of the Council of Europe and of the European Parliament. The Hon. Hennicot-Schoepges was elected Mayor of Walferdange and then moved on to become the first woman President of Luxembourg’s Parliament followed by her appointment as Luxembourg’s Minister of Culture, Higher Education and Research and Public Works.

Publications

Ms. Hennicot-Schoepges’ has written a number of books and articles on subjects ranging from European politics, human rights, religion, and education.

Awards and Achievements

Ms. Hennicot-Schoepges has made many political contributions to the cultural field. On a national level, she is responsible for the creation of the University of Luxembourg, established in 2003 and in 2005 the Luxembourg Philharmonic Hall Joséphine Charlotte, among other projects. On a European level, she was the rapporteur to the EP of the “European Year of Intercultural Dialogue 2008.” 

"Peace building and the Future of Nation States"

The Annual Conference 2014 (Berlin; November 9th, 2014)