Lithuanian government unveils €770 million family support plan, opposition demands funding details
Lithuania's cabinet presented a €770 million family package to encourage higher birth rates, while opposition lawmakers question the source of the funding.
Last week the Lithuanian government introduced a €770 million family package comprising nine initiatives intended to raise the birth rate, with the most costly element being free school meals for students through the 10th grade beginning in 2029. Health Minister Linas Kukuraitis framed the meals as a public-health investment that will instill healthy habits, while Agriculture Minister Kęstutis Mažeika highlighted the plan to source food from local farmers.
The Social Security and Labour Ministry says the state budget and the national social insurance fund Sodra will provide sustainable financing, but opposition lawmakers such as Eugenijus Gentvilas and Gintarė Skaistė contend that no specific revenue sources have been identified and warn of future debt. Within the governing coalition, Budget and Finance Committee chair Algirdas Sysas and MP Tomas Tomilinas have called for a thorough review of both spending and revenue, suggesting some costs could be shifted to other ministries. Critics also note the timing of the free-meal rollout in 2029, when one outlet ministers may no longer be in office.
Why it matters
The plan reveals how Lithuania aims to combat demographic decline and the fiscal debate over funding large social programs.
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