Lithuania invests 6 million euros to attract overseas specialists back home

Lithuania is making a significant investment of 6 million euros to lure back its skilled professionals working overseas. The initiative aims to address the challenges faced by emigrants returning home after extended periods abroad, recognizing that the decision to return is often complex and requires substantial support.

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It's wonderful that people have the opportunity to study at Oxford, Cambridge, or Sydney. But after their studies, a natural question arises – stay abroad or return? And if they return, what awaits them in Lithuania? For the answer to be favorable to our country, both the public and private sectors must actively work on this.

"It's wonderful that people have the opportunity to study at Oxford, Cambridge, or Sydney," says L. A. Zaiceva. "But after their studies, a natural question arises – stay abroad or return? And if they return, what awaits them in Lithuania? For the answer to be favorable to our country, both the public and private sectors must actively work on this."

Experts highlight that returning emigrants often face psychological and social difficulties. I. Jurkonienė emphasizes the need for active state and business assistance, especially for those who have been away for 15 to 20 years. These individuals may have a reduced social network and lack knowledge about the local market, job opportunities, and value creation.

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It is definitely necessary to try to attract talents, not because they don't want to return, but because it is naturally difficult to do so. Some participants in our program return to Lithuania after 15 or 20 years. Their social circle here has shrunk, they lack knowledge about the local market, jobs, and the value created. Active state and business assistance and guidance are essential for them.

The "Kurk Lietuvai" (Create for Lithuania) program, running for 15 years, serves as a successful model for integrating internationally experienced professionals into state-building. The upcoming 16th cohort will begin this fall. The one-year program allows participants to delve into specific projects, analyze legislation, and build professional networks. Over 80% of program participants choose to stay and work in Lithuania, with many continuing their careers in the public sector.

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Specialists get the opportunity to delve into a specific project, for which six months are allocated, allowing them to realistically assess the situation, analyze legislation, and get acquainted with professionals in their field. After completing the program, a person has established a broad network of professional contacts, is visible in their field, and has acquired a solid knowledge base.

In parallel, the private sector is stepping up. "Senukai," a retail chain, has launched "100 Talents for Lithuania." L. A. Zaiceva, a former mentor for "Kurk Lietuvai," spearheaded this initiative, aiming to provide similar opportunities for talents through business engagement.

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