The Lithuanian government has released its proposed legislative agenda for the fall 2024 parliamentary session, which marks the final session of the current Seimas before the national elections in October. The agenda outlines over 50 bills and resolutions to be considered, but notably absent are any proposals specifically addressing LGBTI  rights or issues.

This last legislative push before the elections covers a wide range of topics including economic policy, environmental protection, national security, public administration reform, and implementation of various EU directives. Key priorities include strengthening Lithuania’s defense capabilities, improving the business environment, and advancing the country’s green transition.

It is the last opportunity for the current composition of the Seimas to address these issues before the elections. The absence of LGBTI issues in the agenda is particularly notable given recent developments. In May 2023, the Seimas (Lithuanian Parliament) narrowly approved the Civil Union Law project after deliberation, which attempted to legalize cohabitation without marriage. However, the project has not been submitted for a final vote due to a likely lack of support. This stalled progress highlights the ongoing challenges in advancing LGBTI rights in Lithuania.

Furthermore, the Ministry of Justice has recently initiated an appeal to the Constitutional Court, seeking an evaluation of the situation regarding the absence of same-sex partnership laws. This move underscores the complex legal landscape surrounding LGBTI rights in Lithuania, with the government seeking clarification on constitutional issues while simultaneously not prioritizing LGBTI legislation in its agenda.

The lack of LGBTI-focused legislation in the government’s final pre-election agenda suggests these issues remain a low priority for the outgoing administration. Advocates argue this represents a missed opportunity to advance LGBTI rights and bring Lithuanian law in line with EU standards on LGBTI equality before the potential shift in political landscape following the October elections.

As the Seimas begins its last session, it remains to be seen whether any LGBTI-related bills will be introduced by individual MPs or emerge through the legislative process. However, with the election looming and no LGBTI issues on the official agenda, it appears unlikely that significant progress on LGBTI rights will be made before the next parliament is elected.

LGL has emphasized that this absence reflects a broader lack of strategic approach to LGBTI issues in Lithuanian politics. According to the organization, the government’s failure to include LGBTI-specific legislation in its final pre-election agenda demonstrates a lack of strategic commitment to LGBTI human rights.