Lithuanian conservatives propose ending Russian-language teaching in minority schools by 2030

The conservative Homeland Union has introduced a phased plan to replace Russian-language instruction with Lithuanian in minority schools, aiming for full implementation by 2030 except for Polish-language institutions. Beginning in 2028, subjects such as history, geography and civic education would be taught exclusively in Lithuanian, and by 2030 all courses except the native language class would follow suit. The Education Ministry supports the move, citing low performance of minority students on the state Lithuanian exam, which limits university access.

Critics from the Social Democratic Party highlight potential shortages of qualified teachers, textbooks and curricula. Principals at schools in Nemenčinė and Klaipėda report mixed-language classes already in place, but stress the logistical difficulty of meeting the 2030 deadline.