The 1970 report authored by Pierre Werner provided a comprehensive blueprint for European economic and monetary union, advocating for the eventual adoption of a single currency. This policy framework, which outlined a phased transition for integration, significantly influenced the future architecture of the European Union and the eventual establishment of the euro.
Early Education and Career
Born in 1913 in Saint-André-lez-Lille, Pierre Werner pursued law studies at the University of Paris and the École Libre des Sciences Politiques. He completed a PhD in law in 1938 and initially practiced as a lawyer in Luxembourg City. During the German occupation between 1940 and 1945, he provided support to resistance efforts before transitioning into a career in banking, eventually serving as a controller of the Luxembourgish financial system.
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Werner served as Prime Minister of Luxembourg during two distinct periods, from 1959 to 1974 and again from 1979 to 1984. His tenure was characterized by the management of complex coalition governments with the Democratic Party and the Luxembourg Socialist Workers' Party. Beyond his role as head of government, he held various portfolios including Finance, Treasury, Foreign Affairs, Justice, and the Armed Forces.
Economic Strategy and European Integration
In response to a structural decline in the steel industry, Werner focused on diversifying the national economy by attracting financial services and investing in new industrial sectors. He was a central figure in European diplomacy, notably mediating the 1965 empty chair crisis that involved Charles de Gaulle. He also promoted the growth of the satellite communications sector, leading the board of the Société Européenne des Satellites.
Cultural Engagement and Death
Outside of politics, Werner was a patron of the arts and supported the restoration of historical sites such as Vianden Castle. He maintained a lifelong interest in cricket, serving as Honorary President of the Optimists Cricket Club. Pierre Werner died in 2002 in Luxembourg. His contributions were recognized through numerous awards, including the Grand Cross of the Legion of Honour and the Princess of Asturias Award for Social Sciences.
Fast facts
- Born: 1913, Saint-André-lez-Lille
- Died: 2002, Luxembourg
- Prime Minister of Luxembourg: 1959-1974 and 1979-1984
- Education: University of Paris, École Libre des Sciences Politiques
- Member of: Romanian Academy
- Notable Recognition: Robert Schuman Medal (1987)
- Cultural Interest: Honorary President of the Optimists Cricket Club
Questions readers ask
What was the purpose of the Werner Plan?
It provided a strategy for economic and monetary union within the EEC, featuring fixed exchange rates and the eventual introduction of a single currency.
What was Pierre Werner's role in the satellite industry?
He served as chairman of the board for the Société Européenne des Satellites from 1989 to 1996 and helped establish Luxembourg as a center for global satellite telecommunications.
Achievements
- Prime Minister of Luxembourg (1979–1984)
- Prime Minister of Luxembourg (1959–1974)
- Grand Cross of the Order of the Oak Crown
- Robert Schuman Medal — 1987
- Grand Cross 1st class of the Order of Merit of the Federal Republic of Germany — 1959
- Grand Cross of the Legion of Honour — 1970
- Educated at University of Paris and École Libre des Sciences Politiques
