Current role
- Minister of Defence
- Minister for Mobility and Public Works
- Minister for Gender Equality and Diversity
Biography
Yuriko Backes was born on 22 December 1970 in Kobe, Japan.
After graduating with an International Baccalaureate from the Canadian Academy International School in Kobe in 1989, Yuriko Backes obtained a bachelor's degree in international relations from the London School of Economics and Political Science in 1992. She then attended the School of Oriental and African Studies in London, where she successfully completed a master's degree in Japanese studies in 1993. Yuriko Backes obtained a second master's degree in European political and administrative studies from the College of Europe in Bruges in 1994.
Latest news
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National Centre for Victims of Violence marks its first anniversary and expands access to its services
One year after its opening, the National Centre for Victims of Violence (CNVV) is taking a major step forward in strengthening support for victims. To mark its first anniversary, the CNVV is extending its services to operate 24 hours a day, 7 days a week.
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See and be seen – road safety starts with a glance
With the return of warmer weather comes the start of the motorcycle season. A period eagerly awaited by many riders, but one that is accompanied by an annual increase in the number of road accidents.
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Towards 11 new secondary schools by 2050, with more than 17 infrastructure projects already planned
On 14 April 2026, Ministers Meisch and Backes informed Parliament of progress on preparatory work for a new secondary schools plan looking ahead to 2050.