After Migration Department's response, Šaras delivers another sharp blow to the government
Translated from Lithuanian, summarized and contextualized by DistantNews.
TLDR
- Lithuanian basketball coach Šarūnas Jasikevičius criticized the government's stance on citizenship for his children.
- Jasikevičius expressed concern about his children having to choose citizenship upon turning 18.
- The Migration Department previously stated his concerns were unfounded, but Jasikevičius reiterated his criticism after a recent basketball game.
Renowned Lithuanian basketball coach Šarūnas Jasikevičius has once again voiced sharp criticism towards the government regarding the complexities of citizenship for his children, a matter that has clearly caused him significant personal distress.
Dėl to pats labai pergyvenu, nes jeigu imti be išimčių, ateis aštuoniolika metų neužilgo mano vaikam ir reikės apsispręsti dėl pilietybės.
Jasikevičius, who has achieved considerable success in his coaching career, previously expressed deep concern about the future citizenship choices facing his underage children once they reach the age of 18. He articulated his worries about the state's approach, suggesting that Lithuania's policies might not be conducive to retaining its citizens or their families. His remarks at the time drew an official response from the Migration Department, which sought to allay his fears, asserting that his concerns were baseless.
Sakau – jeigu mūsų valstybė galvoja, kad mes čia galim savais mėtytis... Dar vienas iš faktorių, kuris nepadaro mūsų pačiais protingiausiais
However, following a dramatic basketball match where his team, Fenerbahçe, defeated Kaunas "Žalgiris," Jasikevičius returned to the topic with renewed vigor. He humorously but pointedly dismissed the Migration Department's previous explanation, suggesting that the official's interpretation of the situation was inaccurate. He alluded to interactions during the passport application process, where he felt pressured to have his children make a decision, emphasizing that the choice should not solely rest on him or his children.
Po šių pasisakymų oficialų komentarą pateikė Migracijos departamentas, kuris tikino, jog trenerio nuogąstavimai neturi jokio pagrindo.
This ongoing public exchange highlights a unique Lithuanian perspective on citizenship and national identity, particularly for individuals with strong ties to the country who also have international careers. While Western media might focus on the sports aspect, for many Lithuanians, Jasikevičius's concerns touch upon a deeper societal issue: how the nation engages with its diaspora and their families. His frustration underscores a desire for clearer, more supportive policies that acknowledge the realities of modern, international families and ensure that returning or connected citizens feel valued, not burdened by bureaucratic hurdles.
Man ta moteriškė visai ne taip išdėliojo viską
Originally published by Delfi in Lithuanian. Translated, summarized, and contextualized by our editorial team with added local perspective. Read our editorial standards.