The Alternative Democratic Reform Party (ADR) has raised concerns about the government's communication strategy regarding radio frequencies, specifically questioning whether the new digital radio standard DAB+ can be relied upon to inform the public during emergencies as effectively as traditional FM radio. MP Alexandra Schoos submitted a parliamentary question on the issue, prompting a reassuring response from the government.
DAB+ promises improved sound quality and the ability to broadcast more information and programmes than FM. Its use is increasing across Luxembourg and Europe, with all new vehicles sold in the EU since 2021 required to come equipped with DAB+ radios.
Schoos highlighted a potential inconsistency in government policy: citizens are still advised to keep a manual FM radio on hand for emergencies, even as the national FM infrastructure is gradually being phased out in favour of DAB+. This apparent contradiction was the focus of her parliamentary enquiry.
In their joint response, Prime Minister Luc Frieden, Minister Delegate for Media and Connectivity Élisabeth Margue, and Minister for Home Affairs Léon Gloden clarified that the government does not intend for DAB+ to fully replace FM broadcasting. Instead, DAB+ should be seen as a supplement, allowing Luxembourg to keep pace with advances in radio technology.
The government also emphasised that DAB+ requires high standards of resilience, though the roll-out is not yet complete and no definitive coverage maps are available. In the event of a major crisis or extended power outage, radio broadcasts should continue, as the main transmitters are equipped with emergency power supplies. However, the government did not specify exactly how long these broadcasts could be maintained during such an emergency.
