Katelynas: Stricter Lithuanian language requirements needed for foreigners

Lithuania should consider imposing stricter Lithuanian language proficiency requirements for foreigners, according to Minister of Education, Science and Sport Gintautas Jakštas. He observed a noticeable increase in the use of Russian in public spaces, particularly in Vilnius, which he believes warrants a reevaluation of the country's integration policies.

Jakštas expressed concern that even foreigners who learn Lithuanian might still communicate in Russian with their compatriots. This observation led him to question the broader implications of who is being admitted into the country. He also pointed to challenges within Lithuania's own education system, noting that some Lithuanian citizens who have lived in an independent Lithuania for 36 years still struggle with the language.

The Vilnius city municipality has already taken steps to address these concerns. As part of its integration plan for residents of foreign origin, the municipality is expanding opportunities for learning Lithuanian while simultaneously reducing the use of Russian in education and public service areas. Since this year, children of non-European Union citizens receive primary education exclusively in Lithuanian, and the number of Lithuanian language classes has increased in minority schools.

Data from the municipality indicates a significant reduction in Russian-language preschool groups in the capital, decreasing from 181 to 112 over the past three years. Furthermore, the municipality has discontinued its Russian-language website version, removed Russian from the customer queue management system, and will no longer accept applications and complaints in Russian. Residents needing information in Russian or other non-EU languages will only receive it verbally, depending on staff language capabilities.

Prime Minister Mindaugas Sinkevičius stated that it is too early to evaluate the municipality's decision, suggesting it is unclear whether it represents a principled stance or a communicative gesture. The measures reflect a broader national effort to strengthen the role of the Lithuanian language amidst changing demographics and geopolitical considerations.