From butterflies to birds, experts and citizen scientists unite in a shared mission to monitor and protect nature’s habitats.

On my show this week, we zoom in on the declining richness of Luxembourg’s biodiversity and why it matters. From powerful EU projects to local volunteers counting butterflies, my guests show how citizen science can be crucial to help collect data in a clear and scientific manner.

Dr. Youri Martin, Senior R&T Engineer in biodiversity at LIST, is at the heart of Luxembourg’s monitoring systems. As principal investigator of the BIODIV project, Youri and his team track protected species using standardised data methods. He coordinates the Luxembourg Pollinator Monitoring Scheme, where volunteers conduct pollinator transect walks and pan trapping to observe bees, butterflies and other insects.

“Consistency in data is everything. It allows us to see real trends,  and the picture is concerning.” Over 60% of butterfly mass abundance has declined in just over a decade.

Citizen science has gripped John Park, who created Bee Together.  From identifying butterflies to pan-trapping pollinators, John works hands-on with LIST and is cited among contributors to the new Butterfly Atlas of Luxembourg.

“Unless someone like you cares a whole awful lot, nothing is going to get better. It's not,” he quotes from The Lorax. John’s work has even contributed to published research on genetic drift in insects .

Joining us from Austria was Gerid Hager, a research scholar at IIASA and a key figure in the EU’s FRAMEwork project and Urban ReLeaf initiative. Gerid emphasised the strength of collaborative data collection from farmers and citizens alike.

“This isn't just about data, it’s about community, ownership, and the cultural shift towards biodiversity-friendly agriculture.”

On the birding front, Patric Lorgé, field ornithologist at natur&ëmwelt, has spent decades building Luxembourg’s bird monitoring network. With over 120 volunteers, he has standardised the national tracking of bird populations and authored Vögel Luxemburgs. Patric has personally observed 283 of the 336 bird species in Luxembourg, contributing vital knowledge to EU conservation frameworks like Natura 2000.

Digitally documenting this natural world is Paul Braun, Digital Curator at the National Museum of Natural History Luxembourg (MNHNL). As the Luxembourg node manager for GBIF and site manager of iNaturalist.lu, Paul promotes citizen science through technology. The iNaturalist app, he explains, allows users to photograph and identify wild species globally. "The data doesn't just sit there—it feeds into research, policy, and international conservation."

The show also highlighted the upcoming City Nature Challenge, a global bioblitz encouraging everyone to document as many species as possible in their city using iNaturalist. Last year Luxembourg contributed over 9,000 observations. “This is where science becomes personal and powerful,” says Paul.

So, whether you’re walking transects, installing pan traps, identifying birds or just using an app in your garden, you are a vital part of Luxembourg’s biodiversity mission. The data you collect today could shape conservation policy tomorrow. As Youri said, “We can’t protect what we don’t understand. And we can’t understand what we don’t observe.”

https://www.list.lu/en/environment/project/biodiv-iiia/

https://www.list.lu/en/environment/project/lupoms/

https://beetogetherlux.wordpress.com/

https://iiasa.ac.at/

https://www.naturemweltasbl.lu/produit/exemple-de-produit-4/

https://www.mnhn.lu/science/2024/07/11/ferrantia-90/

https://recodo.io/

https://iiasa.ac.at/blog/sep-2023/reshaping-local-frontiers-of-farming-and-biodiversity

https://www.naturemweltasbl.lu/centrale-ornithologique/

https://www.ornitho.lu/

https://www.mnhn.lu/

https://www.gbif.org/

https://inaturalist.lu/

https://www.citynaturechallenge.org/

https://www.list.lu/

After traversing seven countries, and spending six years in camps here, Bushra & Mahmood just want a home to raise their family.

On this week’s episode I had the profound privilege of sitting down with Bushra Ahmed and Mahmood Abdu, a couple whose lives have been defined by a war that is still ongoing in Yemen.

Their courage, endurance, and aspiration for their family’s future drove them to leave everything behind and begin the journey to find a new home. Their story, spanning seven countries, is one of unimaginable hardship and enforced determination.

Bushra and Mahmood fled Yemen in 2017 with their three young sons aged just 3, 6 and 9 at the time. The political unrest and increasing danger made their home untenable. Bushra, once employed by the US Embassy, faced life-threatening risks as tensions escalated. Mahmood had worked for Yemen’s Ministry of Agriculture. Both had built stable, professional lives – lives that were upended due to war.

Their journey from Yemen went via Oman, Malaysia, Iran, Turkey, Greece, Spain, Belgium, and finally, Luxembourg. In Iran they were living in forests at border with Turkey and had to climb mountains at night and walk, with their three young boys, for two weeks to the capital city of Ankara.

There, they paid for a treacherous boat crossing to Kos, captained by someone who didn’t know the way. On Kos, where they lived for six months in awful conditions, Mahmood built them a shelter.

Finally, they reached Luxembourg in 2019. A new chapter. A place of peace. Another baby. They could not have envisaged still living in camps in 2025.

A Hidden Struggle in the Heart of Europe

Since arriving in Luxembourg, Bushra and Mahmood have been housed in various refugee camps. Six years later, they’re still there. Currently, they live in two small rooms in a camp in Luxembourg City, sharing bathroom and kitchen facilities with five other families. And they pay for it – over €1,100 per month.

Despite Luxembourg’s wealth and reputation for high living standards, their search for a stable home seems insurmountable. Their teenage sons, now in school in Clervaux, spend four hours a day commuting to and from school. Bushra, works but her health has been deeply impacted by relentless stress. Mahmood, has to manage the travel logistics for the children and support their education, alongside learning French.

They have filled out hundreds of housing applications – public and private. But the answer is always the same: too expensive, too large a family, or simply, no response at all.

Their story is one of many – but one we rarely hear.

Luxembourg’s Deepening Housing Crisis

To shed light on the broader context, I was joined by RTL’s French-language housing journalist, Gaël Arellano. His reporting has laid bare the critical state of housing in Luxembourg.

Why is renting so hard – and so expensive?

It’s a perfect storm:

- Population growth vs. housing supply: Luxembourg needs to build around 6,000 new homes per year to keep up with demand. In the last two years, only 700–800 homes were built annually.

- Collapse of new construction: Rising interest rates and stagnant prices have stalled new builds.

- Pressure shift: As buying has become unaffordable, pressure has shifted to the rental market, pushing rents higher.

- Discrimination: Gaël has spoken with real estate agents who confirm that some landlords openly discriminate – against nationalities, large families, even people with children.

Though laws exist to cap rent or ensure fair treatment, enforcement is often absent or toothless. And for refugee families like Bushra and Mahmood’s, who may not have perfect credit histories or high incomes, the barriers multiply.

A Home, Not Just a House

Despite all this, Bushra and Mahmood remain incredibly gracious and resilient. Their sons are doing their best in school and have many friends, but they crave a normal, stable home life.

“They just want to invite their friends over. They want to feel normal.”

They simply want what every parent wants: a stable home where their children can grow, dream, and belong. Luxembourg is their home now.

So let’s ask ourselves – and our community – what can be done? We know the housing situation in Luxembourg is extremely tough, but so much moreso for refugees who are living in limbo.

Bushra and Mahmood’s story is so deeply humbling. A family who simply want to start their life from scratch and a build a home for their family.

https://play.rtl.lu/shows/fr/la-bulle-immo/episodes

Fashioning a future with style, strength & storytelling: ELLE magazine's Editor-in-Chief, a French actress-singer, two fashion designers... my guests this week open up about the need for sincerity in branding oneself or a product, and finding alignment in life and with your work.

A Gathering of Creatives

In the latest episode of The Lisa Burke Show, the spotlight turned to creativity, self-alignment and the evolving identity of women in business and the arts. 

The show featured four guests joining online and in the studio: Aurélia Khazan, French actress, singer and peace ambassador; Marie-Adélaïde Leclercq-Olhagaray, editor-in-chief of ELLE Luxembourg; Elena Gromova, a fashion business consultant; and Senay Simsek Trierweiler, founder of Soul7 Couture. Each guest united through the common theme of finding one’s voice and turning passion into purpose.

The birth of ELLE Luxembourg and the power of words

Marie-Adélaïde shared the journey of launching ELLE Luxembourg, celebrating its first anniversary with a cover story featuring the Grand Duchess. More than just a fashion magazine, ELLE stands as a platform for women’s voices across generations. 

“Words give birth to ideas—maieutics is the art of giving birth through dialogue.” 

Marie-Adélaïde spoke about communication being so much more than just words, either written or spoken. 

“The power of words is immense... you need to choose them wisely. ”  

Aurélia Khazan: combining creative endeavours for a full career

Aurélia Khazan, radiant and multifaceted, joined us from Paris. Aurélia spoke candidly about managing a creative career across continents while staying true to herself. 

“We can’t wait for the phone to ring like Prince Charming—today, women must take an active role in shaping their careers.”  

Recounting feedback from a French agent who said she “smiled too much,” Aurelia responded with grace: “Art is about sincerity, not distance.” Her career across France, India, and beyond reflects a fearless embrace of multicultural storytelling through performance and activism.

“Beauty is not a face. It's what you do. It's how you live. It’s how you give back.”

Senay’s Soul7 Story

Senay’s journey was one of strength, style, and innovation. A psychologist turned designer, she created Soul7 Couture to blend elegance with activewear, crafting pieces that work both in and outside the gym. After being diagnosed with cancer in 2020, her brand became a creative outlet that supported her recovery. 

“I didn’t fight cancer—I learned to live with it. I never gave up on my dreams.” 

Her recent appearance at Miami Fashion Week marked a significant step in taking her Luxembourgish label to the international stage. Senay also talks about how it was not so easy to set-up a business in Luxembourg, but this was not the experience of Elena. 

Branding with Meaning - Fashion Business Lab

Elena Gromova, founder of Fashion Business Lab and No.Rainer, highlighted the importance of authenticity in branding. Having transitioned from finance to fashion, she emphasised the emotional core of every successful brand. 

As Marie-Adélaïde said, “Branding is who you are; marketing is what you offer. You need both feet to move forward.” 

Elena’s raincoat label, No.Rainer, was inspired by Luxembourg’s weather and the desire to build something meaningful. 

“Luxembourg surprised me—it’s small but full of creative potential.”

The Power of Storytelling in a Fast-Paced World

The conversation turned to the contrast between fast-paced social media and the depth of long-form content. Marie-Adélaïde spoke of the balance in ELLE between daily digital articles and print features that “live longer” on readers’ coffee tables.

Elena, who produces beautifully crafted short videos, noted, “You need to show what’s behind the picture. A 15-second video can be a hook, but sincerity is what builds a lasting connection.”

As Marie-Adélaïde said, ELLE Luxembourg has a multi-generational audience and readership. They have to craft stories and interviews that appeal to all. 

Whether building a fashion brand, launching a media platform, or navigating a global creative career, the message was clear: authenticity, adaptability, and self-belief matter most, plus knowing your audience. 

https://www.instagram.com/aureliakhazan_officiel/

https://www.facebook.com/aureliakhazan.page/

www.elle.lu

Instagram: @elle_luxembourg" rel="noopener noreferrer">https://www.imdb.com/name/nm3549980/

https://www.instagram.com/aureliakhazan_officiel/

https://www.facebook.com/aureliakhazan.page/

www.elle.lu

Instagram: @elle_luxembourg

  www.soul7couture.com

https://norainer.com

https://www.instagram.com/no.rainer/

https://www.instagram.com/fashion.business.lab/

Member of Parliament, Paul Galles, came to politics via the unconventional route of priesthood. We talk about this, his zest for life, philosophies he abides by and the want for happiness for all.

 

In my latest episode, I had the distinct pleasure of sitting down with Paul Galles, a man whose life journey is steered by excitement and a depth of being.

Despite leaving the priesthood aged 37, Paul's core values remain in his role as a politician: commitment to faith, community, and the pursuit of happiness for all.

Spiritual awakening

 

As a teenager, we all confront the big questions of life, and that's when Paul's spiritual journey began. Aged 15, he was on a Christian retreat which ignited his connection to God.

Coming from a family of mathematicians and scientists, Paul has always been keenly aware of the intersections between faith and reason. Contrary to the notion that religion and science are incompatible, he believes they complement one another. Faith, he asserts, seeks to understand meaning and purpose, while science unravels the mechanics of the universe. His upbringing reinforced the idea that curiosity and belief are not at odds but rather enrich each other, a philosophy that continues to shape his worldview and political approach.

 

After studying theology, aged 21, he had the opportunity to travel to Brazil to observe the community developed by a Dutch priest who lived there. He was immersed in a vibrant community, "A joyful, lively, young Church that dances and is socially engaged". This experience deepened his faith and ignited a passion for social justice.

From Priesthood to Social Advocacy

After 11 years as a priest, Paul faced the challenges of remaining celibate, something he feels should not be a requirement for priests. Although he stepped away from the clergy, it was not as a rejection of his spiritual path, but an evolution of it. Transitioning to social work, he joined Young Caritas Luxembourg as a project coordinator, focusing on youth volunteerism in the social sector. His work emphasized the importance of solidarity and community engagement, reflecting his enduring commitment to societal well-being.

In 2016, Paul was awarded the prestigious European Citizen Prize for his outstanding contributions to society. This honor, bestowed by the European Parliament, recognizes individuals and organizations that promote European values, solidarity, and cross-border cooperation. For Paul, this was an affirmation of his lifelong mission to serve others, both within and beyond Luxembourg and he dedicated it to the team. 

Stepping into the Political Arena

Paul's foray into politics was a natural progression of his advocacy work. Joining the Christian Social People's Party (CSV) in 2016, he quickly became a prominent figure, serving as Deputy Secretary-General and later as Vice-President. His electoral success continued through 2017, 2018, and from 2023, where he serves as an Alderman responsible for children and youth in Luxembourg City.

Philosophies Rooted in Compassion

Central to Paul's ethos is a profound belief in the dignity of every individual and the pursuit of happiness. Inspired by Robert Baden-Powell’s words, he emphasizes that true happiness stems not from wealth or career success but from living a life of purpose and love. Paul’s commitment extends to environmental justice, social solidarity, and the fight against poverty, with a particular focus on empowering children and youth.

A Vision for a Happier Society

In my preparation with Paul, he posed some introspective questions that challenge us to reflect on our lives:

What are you thankful for?

What impresses your heart so deeply?

Which wounds of the world do you want to be healed?

How do you see the world if you want it to be perfect?

These questions, he believes, should be integral to our education system, fostering a generation that values emotional intelligence, creativity, and genuine human connection.

Embracing Life's Rhythms

Beyond his professional endeavors, Paul finds energy in various passions: a strong network of family and friends, faith, sports, 5Rhythms dance, open-mindedness towards diverse beliefs, astronomy, and philosophy. These interests not only rejuvenate him but also provide a holistic perspective on life, enriching his approach to public service.

Paul's story is one of evolution, guided by faith, introspection, and an unwavering commitment to making the world a better place. His journey from priesthood to politics serves as an inspiring reminder that our paths may change, but the core values of compassion, justice, and love remain steadfast.

For a deeper insight into Paul's philosophies and his vision for a happier society, tune in to our full conversation on RTL Today.

We do also talk about the Council of Europe but this conversation will be a larger one when I interview Ambassador Ragnhildur Arnljósdóttir in a few weeks time.

www.paulgalles.lu

https://www.linkedin.com/in/paul-galles-b6897429?utm_source=share&utm_campaign=share_via&utm_content=profile&utm_medium=ios_app

https://www.facebook.com/share/19UyFpEioy/?mibextid=wwXIfr

Multiple Sclerosis (MS) is a complex neurological condition that impacts an estimated 2.8 million people worldwide. This week we explore the science behind MS, treatment options, and the lived experiences of those navigating life with this chronic illness.

Multiple Sclerosis (MS) has been called "the disease of 1000 faces" for good reason - it manifests differently in almost every person it affects. 

Understanding MS: The Science Behind the Disease

Dr. Zied Tayeb, neuroscientist and CEO of MyelinZ, explained the fundamental mechanism of MS in terms anyone can understand: "The brain communicates using electrical signals. These signals travel from one neuron to another through axons, which are protected by myelin sheets that help accelerate the transmission of these signals. In MS, the immune system mistakenly attacks these myelin sheets, leading to demyelination.”

This disruption in communication between neurons explains why MS symptoms can vary so dramatically - the location of demyelination determines which functions are affected. "It could be the motor cortex, resulting in mobility issues, or the visual cortex, causing problems with vision," Dr. Tayeb noted.

While the exact cause of MS remains unknown, researchers have identified several factors that may contribute to its development. According to our panel, MS is significantly more prevalent in women, who represent approximately 65% of MS patients - possibly due to women's more active immune systems making them more susceptible to autoimmune conditions like MS.

Geographic distribution also offers clues, with higher rates in regions farther from the equator such as Canada, northern United States, and parts of Europe (with Denmark having a particularly high prevalence). This pattern has led scientists to investigate a potential link with vitamin D deficiency, though studies remain inconclusive.

The Patient Experience: Hassan's Journey

Few stories illustrate the unpredictable nature of MS better than that of Hassan Nada, entrepreneur, journalist, and self-described "MS warrior." Hassan's first symptom appeared in 2018 when he suddenly lost vision in his right eye while on holiday in Egypt.

"I woke up one day, and out of nowhere, my vision was blurry to the point where I thought I was blind," Hassan recalled. Despite seeing an ophthalmologist, his condition went undiagnosed as MS. His vision eventually returned after treatment with corticosteroids.

Four years later, after moving to Luxembourg, Hassan experienced sciatic nerve pain and numbness in his lower body. His general practitioner recognized the connection between his previous episode of optic neuritis and his current symptoms, immediately suspecting MS.

"She screamed at me and had me go to the ER right away," Hassan shared. After extensive testing, including MRIs, blood tests, and a spinal fluid sample, the diagnosis was confirmed: Hassan had multiple sclerosis.

The emotional impact of this diagnosis was profound. "My life changed from that moment onwards, and I went into complete depression," he admitted. But through the unwavering support of his wife and access to modern treatments, Hassan has found ways to adapt and advocate for others with MS.

Treatment Approaches: Managing an Incurable Condition

While MS currently has no cure, Dr. Tayeb emphasized that it is treatable. "Notwithstanding the fact that MS is incurable, it is treatable," he stated. "The problem is that every patient is different. The trajectory of the progression, diseases, symptoms are different.”

Disease-modifying therapies (DMTs) aim to slow the progression of MS by suppressing or modulating the immune system. These treatments vary widely in their administration methods (pills, injections, infusions) and side effect profiles.

Hassan's treatment journey illustrates the often challenging process of finding the right approach. After being diagnosed, he was unable to receive his doctor's first-choice treatment due to having a virus that made it dangerous for him. He then tried a pill-based DMT that, despite its high success rate with other patients, didn't work for him. Finally, he found success with a monthly subcutaneous injection called Kesimpta.

"Last week I went to the neurologist office depressed," Hassan shared. "I was like, 'I know it didn't work.' She's like, 'No, it actually worked. There are no new lesions. You can now make long-term plans in life.’"

Innovative Approaches: The Brain's Virtual Gym

Dr. Tayeb and Samaher Garbaya, co-founders of MyelinZ, are taking a different approach to MS management. Their "virtual gym for the brain" uses neurotechnology to promote neuroplasticity - the brain's ability to form new neural connections.

"We're trying to promote neuroplasticity in the brain," Dr. Tayeb explained. Their platform uses games to stimulate specific brain regions while measuring brain activity. Using machine learning, they analyze six different digital biomarkers to create personalized brain exercises.

This approach draws inspiration from research showing that activities like playing musical instruments or singing can activate certain brain areas, potentially slowing disease progression by strengthening neural pathways.

The Role of Support: Community and Family

Multiple speakers emphasized that MS affects not just the individual but their entire support network. Anne Leurs, who manages the Multiple Sclerosis Society in Luxembourg, noted that MS typically appears between ages 20-40 - a critical period when people are building careers, starting families, and establishing their adult lives.

"It's a very difficult period, this period of diagnosis," Anne observed. "It's a chronicle disease. This means that you will have to live your life on with this disease.”

Hassan's experience underscores the crucial role of support systems. "MS either breaks a couple or it makes them the strongest couple in the world," he remarked. When first diagnosed, he told his wife she should leave. "She's like, 'It's because I love you that I'm not leaving, and we're going to make it out of this stronger than ever.'" Five years later, she remains his "backbone," managing his appointments and ensuring he takes his medications.

For those without close family support, community organizations like the Multiple Sclerosis Society provide vital resources, information, and connection.

Complementary Approaches: The Mind-Body Connection

Mariette Lentz, a Luxembourgish soprano who specializes in the Alexander Technique, offered insights into complementary approaches that can help manage MS symptoms and improve quality of life.

The Alexander Technique is "a mental technique" focused on "exploring the relationship between our thoughts and our movement," Mariette explained. While not a therapy or cure, it offers tools to help reduce stress and bring the nervous system to a calmer state - particularly valuable for MS patients who often experience anxiety related to their unpredictable symptoms. This, naturally, is a method that can help us all. 

The Daily Reality

Hassan painted a vivid picture of what daily life with MS can entail: "Imagine waking up every day of your life with the worst hangover in the world without having to drink.”

Despite this challenge, he maintains a positive outlook and has channeled his experience into advocacy work, connecting with MS communities around the world. "I'm disclosing some personal parts of my life in hopes that it's actually going to benefit people," he explained.

Looking Forward: Hope in Research and Community

While MS remains incurable, advances in treatment options continue to improve outcomes for patients. From traditional DMTs to innovative approaches like brain-computer interfaces and neuroplasticity training, the landscape of MS management is evolving rapidly.

As our conversation demonstrated, the combination of cutting-edge medical science, dedicated healthcare professionals, strong personal support systems, and community resources creates a foundation for living well despite MS.

For those navigating the complex journey of MS - whether as patients, family members, or healthcare providers - knowledge and community remain powerful tools. By continuing to share stories like Hassan's and insights from experts like Dr. Tayeb, Samaher Garbaya, Anne Leurs, and Mariette Lentz, we can work toward greater understanding and better support for everyone affected by this challenging condition.

https://myelinz.com

https://www.msweb.lu/wp/

Many of us are lucky to grow older, and in Europe there is an aging demographic. With this come the diseases of aging such as dementia and a burden on family and society for care.

For a long time people have thought this inevitable but we will learn today that, as with so many diseases, lifestyle changes from a young age can counteract this, to reduce the risk of getting dementia and also stabilising mental decline.

In 2021, 20.8% of the EU population was aged 65 years or older. In 2019, an Alzheimer Europe report on the prevalence of dementia estimated that there were about 9 million people living with the disease in Europe. This number is projected to double by 2050, rising towards 19 million in the European region. Globally, there are around 55 million people worldwide who are living with dementia. However, research is now showing that up to 45% of dementias could be prevented: by addressing a range of modifiable risk factors, at different stages of our lives.

My guests today are:

Dr. Ange Bradshaw: Director for Research at Alzheimer’s Europe

Dr. Joëlle Fritz: Research and Strategy Specialist, Luxembourg Institute of Health

Dr. Francesca Mangialasche: Geriatrician, Division of Clinical Geriatrics: Alzheimer Research Center Department of Neurobiology, Care Sciences and Society, Karolinska Institutet and Executive Director of the World-Wide FINGERS Global Scientific Coordinating Center at the FINGERS Brain Health Institute

Hassan Fadli: Founder, 5 Ironmans Beat Alzheimer's Association

The 2024 World Alzheimer’s report noted that 80% of people think dementia is a normal part of ageing, and 65% of healthcare professionals.

Only 2% of the population are affected by rare genetic factors but for most of us this is not the case. ‘Modifiable risk factors’ can be replaced to deter and stall dementia.

Francesca Mangialasce is based at the Karolinska Institute in Sweden, and also works as executive director of the ‘FINGERS’ Brain Health Institute, founded by Professor Mija Kivipelto, a world renowned researcher in the field of Alzheimer's disease and Dementia.

FBHI is dedicated to promoting healthy brain aging and preventing cognitive impairment and dementia through innovative multi-domain clinical research and the fast translation of these results into personalised clinical practice.

Brain is our main capital, and there is so much we can do to promote brain health. Studies have show that cardiovascular and metabolic disorders such as high blood pressure, high blood cholesterol, high blood sugar or diabetes are risk factors for dementia. There are many other emerging factors such as hearing impairment, vision loss, impaired oral health. 

Being mentally, physically and socially active during life is important to reduce the risk of memory problems in old age. Secondary and tertiary prevention is also really important, even at the later stages of disease with therapies including art, dance and cognitive stimulation therapy . 

The FINGER study across 70 countries shows that a multi-domain approach can benefit cognition:exercise, healthy diet, cognitive training, good control of metabolic/vascular disorders, and social stimulation.

Stigma

Hassan Fadli’s father faced stigma in the village he lived all his life. This stigma deepens the pain of the suffering, knowing you are losing ‘yourself’. It is also a burden for the caregivers at a time when family and friends need the most help to support their loved one.  

Hassan promised his father to work towards breaking this stigma and founded the 5 Ironmans initiative. Hassan has also made a documentary of his advocacy work alongside the endurance sport to reach people from children in schools across Europe to the Queen of Sweden.  His aim is to bring brain health into normal conversation, break the stigma, and integrate brain health awareness into public discourse. 

Luxembourg support

Joëlle Fritz is working  as Research and Strategy Specialist at the Luxembourg Institute of Health where she aims to bridge research to clinical care. "Programme démence prevention" (pdp) is a programme raising awareness on modifiable risk factors for dementia prevention and promotes life style changes.

PDP is an integrated prevention concept funded by Luxembourg's Ministry of Health and Social Security. PDP is currently coordinated by the Centre Hospitalier  de Luxembourg in collaboration with national institutions (Luxembourg Institute of Health and Luxembourg Centre for System's Biomedicine at the University of Luxembourg) and partner associations (listed below). It is important to start as early as possible in the prevention of dementia, and so the PDP Braincoach app was created, accessible via browser to everyone also outside Luxembourg: www.pdp-app.lu

Associations related in Luxembourg:

L’Association nationale des diététiciens du Luxembourg: www.andl.lu

ZithaAktiv: www.zithaaktiv.lu  

Club Seniors of HELP asbl: www.help.lu

Club Senior “Schwaarze Wee” Dudelange:   www.schwaarzewee.lu

Lëtzebuerger Verein fir Gediechtnistraining: www.lvgt.lu

NEUROvitalis home and digital

Info-Zenter Demenz:   www.demenz.lu

Association Luxembourg Alzheimer (ala) : www.ala.lu 

Longevity with health 

The results are clear, for dementia and living a long life with good health: we need to put in place good habits of physical, social and mental health. 

Links to the notes above:

https://www.5ironmansbeatalzheimer.com

www.pdp.lu

https://www.alzheimer-europe.org

https://fbhi.se/sv/

https://www.linkedin.com/company/fingers-brain-health-institute/

https://www.linkedin.com/in/miia-kivipelto-8a8b1b3b/

https://www.chl.lu/fr

https://m3s.gouvernement.lu/en.html

https://www.uni.lu/lcsb-en/

https://ki.se/en

Coming up for air after being trapped in the fog of a cycle of domestic abuse – the story of (mostly) women who have finally found the strength to leave.

After a news review with Sasha Kehoe, the topic of today’s show is Domestic Violence.

Eric Lamhène and Rae Lyn Lee set out to make a film a few years ago where the back-story of one of the characters was domestic abuse. When they started their research in 2017, visiting shelters of victims, they realised this was the story they wanted to tell instead.

‘Breathing Underwater’ (Hors d’Haleine) is the result. Produced by Samsa Film, this Luxembourgish independent feature-length film was released in cinemas on 13th of November 2024 and will be re-shown on 7 March ahead of Women’s International Day on 8 March. Eric is the director and Rae Lyn is the co-writer and Director of Photography. www.breathingunderwater-film.com

My other guest, Christine Renzi, is a social worker who has worked with women and children at Foyer Sud for many years. Today she is part of a team that runs “Log-in”, part of Conseil National des Femmes du Luxembourg, CNFL.

Eric and Rae Lyn talk about the strength of women in the shelters they visited, the camaraderie and strife they share as they figure out a new path ahead. Eric mentions the fact that most of these women are ex-pats as Luxembourgish people tend to reconnect with family or friends here in these situations.

Christine tells us that even though some women (as it is mostly women) return, they usually, eventually, leave when the time is ready for them.

Both Christine, and Eric & Rae Lyn, have brought their work into schools and every time, whatever the socio-economic demographic, they have children come to talk to them as they know what this is about, they have lived it. Or they walk out as it is too painful for them to relive it.

Domestic abuse comes in many forms and it is not always physical. Psychological abuse can be more harmful in ways as it constantly chips away at the other’s confidence, gaining control of that person, making them feel as though they live in a fog of doubt. The victim’s circle diminishes, they may loose work and certainly loose confidence. Often there is a trigger to leave the home, and often this trigger is the children. 

Of course men are also victims although the figures at the moment for men are much lower than for women. Nonetheless, in Luxembourg law, both genders are seen in equitable terms.

What makes a (mostly) man abuse another? Eric says that his conversations with psychologists suggest it happens with these men are not in contact with their emotions. “The patriarchy hurts both sides”.

If you want to check the violence scale, here is a good resource:

https://oivf.seinesaintdenis.fr/app/uploads/2022/06/violentometre-2019-anglais.pdf

If you need help and support in Luxembourg please contact:

www.violence.lu

You can find more information from Eurostat here:

https://ec.europa.eu/eurostat/web/products-eurostat-news/w/ddn-20241125-3 

www.breathingunderwater-film.com

Is Luxembourg too risk-averse to foster a true startup culture, or can a shift in mindset help entrepreneurs embrace failure as a stepping stone to success?

When Pascal Wiscour-Conter got invited to speak at an event in the Luxembourg Chamber of Commerce, and then at 'Fuckup Nights' (link below), he realised there was an issue about the fear of failure in Luxembourg. This is an issue more broadly across Europe and is one factor as to why Europe doesn’t seem to be as entrepreneurial as some other countries. 

https://fuckupnights.lu/en/our-speakers/

Is it possible to develop a true start-up spirit in Luxembourg or is it too difficult to pierce the current model of continuity and minimal risk taking? How does all of this fit the exponential age of technological change around us? These are some of the questions we consider. 

Attila Lengyel is an expert in organizational culture and change management, and spent a large part of his career at Amazon. Attila talks about how an individual and an organisation can learn to deal with risk; real versus perceived risk, and how failures can be celebrated.  

One-way and two-way doors are a thought experiment we explore, showing that many decisions are not necessarily permanent. The culture of a company is a tangible blueprint for behaviour and decision making. Getting this right is key to ensuring the company’s voice is disseminated through all employees, and that employees can fit the feel of a company. 

Attila currently leads innovation and business development at Edugamitec, a groundbreaking EdTech startup hoping to revolutionize corporate learning through game-based nano-learning.

Daniel Tesch is head of ULESS, Union Luxembourgeoise de l’Economie Sociale et Solidaire. He spent eight years living in Brazil working for Arbed steel group, now Arcelor-Mittal. A lawyer by training he now helps social impact entrepreneurship in Luxembourg. 

Veerle Dierick is the  Fundraising coordinator and corporate relations at Fondatioun Kriibskrank Kanner, the Childhood Cancer Foundation in Luxembourg. 

15 February is International Childhood Cancer Day, a global collaborative campaign to raise awareness about childhood cancer. 

In Europe, every day 100 children are diagnosed with cancer. It’s a rare disease that kills 6000 children per year. In Luxembourg, 180 children and their families are helped by the foundation, with about 30 new children every year. You can find out much more information on their new website here. www.fondatioun.lu 

You can also raise money on the Lëtz Go Gold charity run which takes place on 27 September each year.  www.letzgogold.lu

"Killing and Starving children is not Jewish. Fighting antisemitism demands decoupling of Jews from Israel."

Since many people don't have time to read full articles anymore, I want to start by linking to two poignant interviews I've had the privilege of conducting over the last few years:

- Dr. Izzeldin Abuelaish, the first Palestinian doctor to work in an Israeli hospital: lost his wife to leukaemia aged just 43, leaving him with their 8 children. Just four months later,during the 2008-9 Gaza War, three of his daughters and one niece were killed. And yet Izzeldin has dedicated his life to using health as a vehicle for peace. 

https://play.rtl.lu/shows/en/in-conversation-with-lisa-burke/episodes/n/1612726

- Bassam Aramin, Palestinian, and Rami Elhanan, Israeli, are members of The Parents Circle – Families Forum (PCFF), due to the most painful loss of their daughters at different times due to the intractable Israel and Palestine conflict. They have become 'brothers' and advocate constantly for solidarity and peace in their land.

https://play.rtl.lu/shows/en/in-conversation-with-lisa-burke/episodes/n/2171062

Last week saw the 80th anniversary of the liberation of Auschwitz. It also saw the return of Palestinians to the north of Gaza. This juxtaposition of events hits hard.

The 80th anniversary of the liberation of Auschwitz had 56 survivors of the camp in attendance; down from 200 survivors for the 75th anniversary. We are losing the voice of those who experienced violence, discrimination, hatred and genocide first hand in these camps of torture and death. Of course we must add it was not only Jews that suffered in these camps.

Meanwhile, anti-semitism is on the rise since Hamas attacked Israel on 7 October 2023 and the ensuing war in Gaza and Lebanon. This sudden attack on 7 October was not out of nowhere of course. It follows in a line of attacks on both sides, and in the greater region, over decades, despite various ‘agreements’, ‘accords’, political handshakes… nothing has yet brought peace.

On my show this week I have four strong and learned voices on the region, the culture and the law:

- Dalia Hader, a Palestinian living in Luxembourg who is asking for petition signatures here so that the Government of Luxembourg discusses this topic in the chamber: “Luxembourg must sanction Israel for its policies in Palestine.”

https://www.petitions.lu/petition/3231

- Martine Kleinberg, President, Jewish Call for Peace a.s.b.l.

- Dr. Michel Erpelding, International lawyer specialising in this region

- Dr. Engy Ali, President of MSF Luxembourg

Dalia Hader, is a Palestinian from Jerusalem but grew up primarily in Amman, Jordan. Like so many Palestinians, families often move if they have a choice as it becomes untenable to ‘live’ and raise a family in Israel / Palestine. Current records show the state of Palestine to have about 5.5 million inhabitants. The Palestinian diaspora is numbered at about 7.4 million. About one third of Palestinians living in Palestine are under the age of 15; only about 3% live to be over 65. We discuss one definition of genocide with Dr. Michel Erpelding, which targets the killing of children to minimise population growth.

Access to care and medication

Dr. Engy Ali, President of Médecins Sans Frontières, MSF Luxembourg, is specialised in Critical Care medicine and public health, working for over 20 years in the medical and humanitarian field; 12 years with Médecins Sans Frontières/Doctors without Borders. She has worked in Bangladesh, Kenya, Somalia, Nigeria, Lebanon, Syria, Egypt, Mali, Mauritania, Haiti, Liberia, DRC, Philippines, Pakistan, Gaza and Europe.  

The MSF team in Gaza have lost 9 members since 7 October 2023. This loss is deeply felt by the MSF family as they dedicate their lives to giving access to health to all, equally. ‘Access to care and medication’ is, according to Dr. Ali, the driving force of MSF.

Dr. Ali reminds us that MSF has been present in Gaza for years. She herself was working Gaza in 2020, trying to organise medical evacuation programmes for complex trauma cases (but then Covid 19 happened.)

“Our humanitarian action in Gaza is guided by our core humanitarian principles of neutrality and impartiality, but we do not stay silent about humanitarian crises as in Gaza. We publicly speak out and report attacks on healthcare facilities, shortages of medical supplies, and obstacles to access care, ensuring that humanitarian needs are recognized.”

The testimonials you hear in this interview are from from Nadia Abo Mallouh, MSF medical coordinator from Rafah, and Abu Abed, Deputy Medical Coordiantor.

Impunity reinforces antisemitism

Martine Kleinberg, President of Jewish Call for Peace (JCP) has worked unceasingly to increase the clamour of Jewish voices that do not want to be connected with the direction of Israel’s government and want to work with Palestinians for peace. This is a growing movement around the world with the Jewish Voice for Peace, and the Not in My Name refrain.

https://jewishcallforpeace.lu

Martine is herself trained in conflict resolution and prevention.  JCP is a founding Member of the European Jews for Palestine launched in October 2024, with more than 20 organisations in 14 European countries, a member of Global Jews for Palestine, and a Member of Luxembourg Collectives for Palestine.

On 1 February Martine organised a conference to discuss:

“Exploiting Memory: the Holocaust and the distortion of antisemitism”

In organising this event, Martine faced cultural decision makers in Luxembourg who did not want their venue associated with such open conversations. Neimënster said no; the Culture Bar said yes. Neimenster said this event did not “correspond to their values…the title leads to negative interpretations against associations and institutions partnered with Neimënster. As a public establishment we remain a neutral entity and cannot be associated with this type of event”

Martine is extremely clear in her own reckoning of what the Israeli government are doing to use Judaism as an instrument of war:

“I refuse the instrumentalization of my Jewish identity for colonialist supremacist purpose, that has nothing to do with Judaism. My commitment is the solidarity with the oppressed and deconstruction of antisemitic prejudices.”

Martine believes strongly that there is a “weaponization of the Holocaust memory and antisemitism by Israel, to gain impunity, which is destroying international law”.

“Fighting antisemitism demands decoupling of Jews from Israel.”

Martine Kleinberg is aghast on why almost no religious leaders, of all religions, cannot speak out with clarity that the violence against a trapped civilian population in Gaza is indefensible and wrong

Does International Law have any power anymore?

Michel Erpelding, is a legal scholar in the history of international law, with an additional degree in Middle Eastern studies, and works on international law particularly related to colonialism and individual rights.

We speak about the definitions of international lawyers and the International Criminal Court of war crimes, crimes against humanity, genocide and apartheid.  

Israel was viewed by the UN, well before 7 October 2023, as an occupying power in Gaza, and as such remained bound by international law to meet the essential needs of the civilian population. Israel can control water going into Gaza. It can exert decisive control over Gaza via land, air and sea.

We explore the notion of ‘double standards’ in political discourse when it comes to annexation (for example, Putin annexing Crimea; Netanyahu annexing East Jerusalem, the Golan Heights and the West Bank).

Naturally the 7 October attacks by Hamas was the catalyst to this most recent war, but there is also the legal notion of ‘proportionality’ in war.

Dr. Erpeling and Dalia discuss why the Oslo Accords of 1995 did not work.

“Oslo led to a clearer apartheid reality in the West Bank and Jerusalem” says Dalia, and goes on to say how certain Palestinian segregation means one cannot drive on certain roads, cannot visit certain parts of Palestine without the ‘right’ passport, requires a certain number plate, will be held up for hours at check-points to be humiliated, and so the layers of discrimination continue.

This un-ending story of war sits in a region where, fundamentally, humanity has been abandoned. And this humanity at its core, will find not much difference between Israelis and Palestinians, just like the Irish and Northern Irish, just like the Ukrainians and Russians. When the Ukraine war started, how often did we hear the line, “But they are our brothers and sisters?”  Humanity is a source of life and support. Borders, walls, check-points, active discrimination and suppression are not the acts of humans who, with a religion or not, know what is right in their heart.

Let’s end with a recent poll in the French newspaper La Tribune Dimanche, which showed that when 986 people aged between 16 and 24 were questioned about the Holocaust, one in five had never heard of it (18%), and almost one in five had heard of it without knowing more (17%).

Let’s try to remember what has gone before. 

Let’s try to break the circles of hatred in history.

Get in touch 

Contact Lisa on LinkedIn or via her website.

Please subscribe, rate and review the podcast.

Watch on RTL Play.

Tune in to The Lisa Burke Show on Today Radio Saturdays at 11am, Sundays at noon, and Tuesdays at 11am.

Philanthropy and rare disease are the topics in this week’s show, after a global news review with Sasha Kehoe.

Philanthropy for Brain Research and Rare Disease

What would you do if you had a spare €10,000 or more to donate? Well, the University of Luxembourg has just opened up a new fund to tackle Alzheimers, Parkinsons, and Rare Diseases. You could become part of their ‘Champions Circle’ and get to know the researchers, the cutting edge development and help shape the future for so many people in the world with these conditions. Research is expensive and philanthropy can be targeted giving, where you get to make a difference during your lifetime. 

Naturally another way to give is to leave a legacy through your will. As an entirely separate aside, it is always a good idea to leave a written will. The act of writing one can crystallise what matters most to you once you’re gone, and therefore perhaps what matters most to you whilst you live. 

Philippe Lamesch created and leads the Fundraising Office at the University of Luxembourg. His own background is in biological sciences, firstly at Namur in Belgium, followed by research at the and then the Carnegie Institution for Science at Stanford University.

https://www.uni.lu/en/about/fundraising/how-to-donate/

Daniela Ragni, Director of the André Losch Foundation, talks about his legacy.  Given that he didn’t have his own children, he created the foundation with a mission is to support youth, education and social inclusion. They work in partnerships with people and organisations over a number of years to make real and lasting changes within our community. 

Daniela herself spent a couple of decades working for non-governmental organisations trying to raise money and now finds herself on the other side of the this equation, developing relationships with organisations and individuals who need financing for their ideas for the social good of the community, always with a focus on young people. 

https://www.loschfondation.lu

Rare Disease

Associate Professor Dr. Carole Linster’s scientific work has made her the leading researcher on rare childhood disease in Luxembourg. Her biomedical science studies started in UC Louvain in Brussels, followed by the prestigious de Duve Institute there, followed by UCLA in California. Here she discovered enzymes that plants depend on to produce vitamin C.

Carole and co-workers also discovered several new enzymes of human metabolism, involved in the breakdown of metabolic side products that become toxic when left to accumulate.

In collaboration with researchers from Australia, the US, and the UK, the Linster group identified a novel infantile rare neurodegenerative disorder that is caused by the deficiency of one of those metabolite repair enzymes (NAXD). 

Carole talks about the fundamental global research that is necessary in order to tackle rare disease, which is not really that rare by definition. It is extremely time consuming for talented scientists to write proposals for grants and other fund opportunities. For this reason again, the idea of university led funds, or partnerships with organisations such as André Losch which can extend over years, takes some pressure off the constant need to ‘ask’ for money.

Sip of Self-Care

Dr. Laura Riordan flew over from Lisbon to join our conversation. She is an Executive and Career Transitions Coach with a Ph.D. in psychology and over 20 years of coaching experience.

Through her work of creating the Sustainable Mom methodology, Laura has extended her knowledge to the world of Raregivers - caregivers within families of Rare Disease. From 2019, Laura has developed retreats for rare caregivers to find relief in a supportive community and bolster their self-care practices to sustain themselves and their families at home.

Laura talks about the need to look after one’s own well-being in order to support a child with a chronic condition. We talk about the diagnosis odyssey, on average 5-8 years with a rare disease. This limbo in itself is a source of immense pain and stress for a family, layering on top financial stressors when often one parent has to give up work to care for a child.

The Raregiver’s guide trains caregivers and medical professionals on the Raregiver’s methodology, a research-based stress relief methodology shared through peer-to-peer support groups and emotional witnessing workshops.

The Raregivers organization is singularly focused on providing necessary mental health and wellness services to raregivers - from sustainable psychosocial training and transformative retreats to a connective peer-to-peer multilingual network. Raregivers currently supports over 22,000 rare families across 33 countries. https://www.raregivers.global

Get in touch 

You can contact Lisa on her website or through LinkedIN.

Watch all her shows on RTL Play. Listen on Today Radio: Saturdays at 11am, Sundays at noon, and Tuesdays at 11am.

Please do subscribe to the podcast, rate and review.