In a historic moment for Lithuanian democracy, this Sunday’s parliamentary elections mark a significant milestone by allowing, for the first time, 21-year-olds to run for parliament.
The openness towards youth reflects the Baltic country’s commitment to political renewal and the participation of new generations in national decision-making. The second and final round of these elections takes place in a context of political transformationwhere the current conservative government, led by the Prime Minister Ingrida Simonytefaces important challenges.
His administration, which took power in 2020, has seen a decline in popularity due to various factors, including strict measures implemented during the pandemicseveral political scandals and the complex management of the migration crisis caused by the situation in neighboring Belarus.
The strategic location of Lithuania, which shares borders with Russia and Belarusadds a crucial geopolitical dimension to these elections. He conflict in Ukraine has intensified concerns about regional security in the Baltic, making foreign policy a central issue in the electoral debate.
Los socialdemocratsunder the leadership of Vilija Blinkevičiūtėhave emerged as the dominant force after the first round, ensuring 20 of the first 70 seats in dispute. This result places them slightly ahead of Šimonytė’s Fatherland Union party, which won two fewer seats.
Despite the possibility of a left turn In domestic politics, analysts agree that the Lithuanian foreign policy will maintain its current course. As an active member of the European Union and NATOLithuania will continue to be a firm ally of Ukraine and will maintain its strategic position in the international context.
This will be election day in Lithuania
This Sunday’s election day is decisive to complete the formation of the new parliament with 141 seats. Voters in numerous electoral districts must choose between the two candidates with the most votes in the first round, thus defining the final composition of the legislature that will guide the country for the next four years.
This electoral process will not only determine the political future of Lithuania until 2028, but also represents a crucial moment for the democratic consolidation of the country. The inclusion of younger candidates brings a new perspective to the political landscape, promising a generational renewal in national decision-making. The involvement of a new generation of politicians, together with the experience of established leaders, could create a unique balance in Lithuanian politics.