Demographic Agreement Project is a Call to Action for Social Democrats, Says Kasčiūnas
Translated from Lithuanian, summarized and contextualized by DistantNews.
At a glance
- L. Kasčiūnas stated that the proposed demographic agreement project is a call to action for the social democrats to prepare practical solutions.
- The project, prepared by the TS-LKD faction, suggests expanding state support for first-time homebuyers, strengthening family policies, and facilitating work-life balance for parents.
- The proposal also aims to encourage the return of Lithuanian citizens living abroad and improve the quality of life and social services for the elderly.
L. Kasčiūnas has issued a call to action for Lithuania's social democrats, urging them to prepare practical solutions for the nation's demographic challenges. He stated that the proposed national agreement on demographics for 2026–2040, drafted by the TS-LKD (Homeland Union – Lithuanian Christian Democrats) faction, serves as a wake-up call for them to engage constructively.
"If we are taking the initiative first, then it is probably a call for the social democrats to prepare practical matters without delay. Of course, it would be good for everyone to sit down and talk again. And again, it should come from research, surveys, analysis of what should be offered, and then we move on to solutions. And we will certainly support sensible decisions, that's a fact, we give our word. (...) It would be an unpatriotic approach if the social democrats now viewed this as some kind of political competition from the conservatives. We are all doing this together, we are all moving forward together and making decisions together," Kasčiūnas told Žinių radijas.
The TS-LKD's draft agreement proposes several key measures. These include expanding state support for first-time homebuyers, making it more accessible to individuals aged 18–35 and young families. It also emphasizes strengthening family policies and services in both urban and rural areas, creating more favorable conditions for balancing work and childcare. Furthermore, the project aims to actively encourage the return of Lithuanian citizens residing abroad, assisting them in reintegrating into the country's labor market and education system.
Beyond supporting younger generations, the conservatives' proposal also focuses on healthy aging and extending life expectancy. It suggests ensuring high-quality health and social services for the elderly, promoting their active participation in societal and economic life, and creating conditions for more people to engage in the labor market. This comprehensive approach seeks to address the multifaceted demographic crisis facing Lithuania, from low birth rates to an aging population and emigration.
If we are taking the initiative first, then it is probably a call for the social democrats to prepare practical matters without delay. Of course, it would be good for everyone to sit down and talk again. And again, it should come from research, surveys, analysis of what should be offered, and then we move on to solutions. And we will certainly support sensible decisions, that's a fact, we give our word. (...) It would be an unpatriotic approach if the social democrats now viewed this as some kind of political competition from the conservatives. We are all doing this together, we are all moving forward together and making decisions together.
Originally published by Delfi in Lithuanian. Translated, summarized, and contextualized by our editorial team with added local perspective. Read our editorial standards.