Lithuania Proposes Stricter Migration Rules, Emphasizing Language Proficiency

Lithuania is set to introduce stricter migration policies, with a key proposal requiring migrants to demonstrate proficiency in the Lithuanian language as a primary integration criterion. This move aims to address national security concerns and prevent the emergence of segregated communities, a growing issue as the country's immigrant population has risen substantially.

According to D. Matulionis, a presidential advisor, the number of immigrants has increased to 220,000 over three years, with a significant concentration in major cities. "We really don't want certain ghettos to form sooner or later, with all the problems that European countries face," Matulionis stated during the "ELTA savaitė" program. "It is time to adopt a stricter policy on migration issues."

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We really don't want certain ghettos to form sooner or later, with all the problems that European countries face. It is time to adopt a stricter policy on migration issues.

The proposed legislative changes, which the Presidential Office plans to submit to the Seimas, have been coordinated with the State Security Department (VSD). The VSD had previously raised concerns about the time needed to vet arriving migrants and the challenges of integrating foreigners. In response, the proposed vetting period has been extended from 14 to 28 days, and the requirement for language proficiency has been emphasized as the most crucial integration factor.

Matulionis clarified that the goal is not for working migrants to settle permanently or bring their families, citing concerns about radicalization and security risks observed in other European nations. "Our goal is not for them (migrants) to integrate for a long time and to bring family members with all the problems that exist in Europe, when... people, although they live in the country, are radicalized and become a security problem," he explained. "Learning the language shows respect for the country and indicates an intention to integrate."

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Our goal is not for them (migrants) to integrate for a long time and to bring family members with all the problems that exist in Europe, when... people, although they live in the country, are radicalized and become a security problem. Learning the language shows respect for the country and indicates an intention to integrate.