Seimas adopted the Resolution on the Significance of the Lithuanian Charter

Press release, 30 May 2019

 

 

On the occasion of the 70th anniversary of the Lithuanian Charter, the Seimas proposed that the Government ensure promulgation of the ideals set forth in the Lithuanian Charter and their introduction into the curricula of Lithuanian secondary schools and higher education establishments and perpetuate the memory of the Charter by fully familiarising the public with its historical importance. The Seimas Resolution (Draft  No  XIIIP-3482) was adopted with 75 votes in favour and 1 abstention.

 

As highlighted in the Resolution, the Lithuanian Charter was the key document adopted in emigration, to consequently form the basis for the programme of preservation of the Lithuanian identity worldwide and the fight for the restoration of Lithuania’s independence. The programme was being consistently implemented throughout the Soviet occupation period.

 

The Seimas is convinced that the principles and values set forth in the Lithuanian Charter, i.e. the preservation and promulgation of the national identity and the significance of the Lithuanian language, family, cultural and national education are fundamental for the survival of the Lithuanian society and the state today. The Charter also highlights the contribution of the Supreme Committee for the Liberation of Lithuania and of the World Lithuanian Community to the preservation of Lithuania’s statehood.

 

The pocket size publication, known as the Lithuanian Charter, was issued on 14 June 1949 in Augsburg, Germany, by the Supreme Committee for the Liberation of Lithuania (VLIK). The Charter laid the foundations for the World Lithuanian Community as well as consolidated and perpetuated the efforts of Lithuanians scattered throughout the world during World War II to continue the struggle for Lithuania’s independence and to make every effort to maintain not only family ties, but also the national bond at any cost.

 

On the occasion of the 70th anniversary of the Lithuanian Charter, the Seimas declared 2019 as the Year of Lithuanian Diaspora.

 

 

Rimas Rudaitis, Chief Specialist, Press Office, Information and Communication Department,

tel. +370 5 239 6132, e-mail: [email protected]