Vilnius nightclub warned for discriminating against visitor based on nationality

The Equal Opportunities Ombudsperson’s Office has issued a warning to Chaos Lounge, a nightclub in central Vilnius, after finding it discriminated against an Indian citizen due to his nationality, race, and ethnic origin, LRT reports.

The investigation began following a complaint from a man who was denied entry to the venue while visiting with friends. According to the complaint, the group was initially turned away by security staff but later admitted—without the complainant—despite no change in circumstances.

Club representatives denied that the decision was based on race or nationality but failed to provide a clear explanation. They claimed stricter entry controls were in place due to high occupancy at the time.

Birutė Sabatauskaitė, the Equal Opportunities Ombudsperson, noted that the differing treatment of the same group under identical conditions raised concerns about discriminatory practices. The office concluded that the club had violated the Law on Equal Opportunities, which prohibits unequal service based on race, nationality, or origin.

The nightclub’s operating company received an official warning and was advised to conduct staff training and adopt internal anti-discrimination policies.