Lithuania Could Pay Full Migrant Solidarity Contribution Instead of Relocation, Suggests Analyst

Lithuania might consider foregoing the relocation of migrants and instead fulfill its entire solidarity contribution financially, suggests M. Katelynas. This proposal stems from a belief that the financial commitment is not excessively large and could serve to appease public concerns.

"I will propose paying for everyone. That is my opinion. It is based on the fact that it is not a large sum of money," Katelynas stated in an interview with 'Žinių radijas.' He added, "In this geopolitical period, society is already agitated, certain things are happening that cause concern. We understand that migration is also a topic that causes many controversies. If we can pay two or two and a half million euros and calm society a bit, I think we should take such measures."

Previously, the Lithuanian Ministry of the Interior had confirmed plans for the country to accept 58 migrants and contribute 1.14 million euros as part of the EU solidarity mechanism. The ministry indicated a mixed approach, fulfilling half of its obligations through migrant relocation and the other half through financial contribution.

This discussion occurs in the context of the new EU Migration and Asylum Pact, adopted in May of the previous year. The pact aims to standardize asylum procedures, migration and return rules, and border controls across member states. A key provision requires EU member states to either accept a set number of asylum seekers or make a financial contribution to the solidarity mechanism.

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I will propose paying for everyone. That is my opinion. It is based on the fact that it is not a large sum of money. In this geopolitical period, society is already agitated, certain things are happening that cause concern. We understand that migration is also a topic that causes many controversies. If we can pay two or two and a half million euros and calm society a bit, I think we should take such measures.