Why She Made the List
As defence minister she plays an important role in strengthening Luxembourg’s contributions to NATO and European defence initiatives.
Summary Bio
Yuriko Backes is Luxembourg’s Minister of Defence, appointed in 2023, overseeing the country’s defence policy and military partnerships.
Backes previously served as Luxembourg’s Minister of Finance from 2022 to 2023, before being appointed Minister of Defence. Prior to entering government she served as Deputy Head of Mission in Tokyo and held senior roles within the European Commission.