Lithuanian culture ministry requests details on LRT’s contractual ties with journalist Miliūtė

The Lithuanian Ministry of Culture has formally requested information from public broadcaster LRT regarding its contractual relationship with journalist Rita Miliūtė, following public controversy over her conduct during a recent protest, LRT.lt reports.

In a letter addressed to LRT Director General Monika Garbačiauskaitė-Budrienė, the ministry asked for clarification on whether Miliūtė is bound by an employment contract, service agreement, or other legal arrangement with the broadcaster. The request, signed by ministry chancellor Lukas Alsys, also sought details on the nature and validity period of any such agreements.

“Given that LRT’s website does not provide relevant information, we ask you to specify the nature of LRT’s work or other contractual relations with journalist R. Miliūtė, indicating the type of agreement (employment/author’s rights/service contract, etc.) and its status (active, expired, terminated, etc.),” the letter stated.

If no direct contract exists, the ministry requested an explanation of the legal basis under which Miliūtė hosts LRT’s television program Langas į valdžią (Window into Power). Garbačiauskaitė-Budrienė responded on social media, confirming the show had won a programming competition and that Miliūtė’s role is governed by a content-creation agreement.

The ministry’s inquiry follows public criticism of Miliūtė’s behavior during an April 8 protest outside the Seimas, where she directed an obscene gesture toward the parliament building. Vilnius police launched administrative proceedings after receiving complaints. The protest, titled “Hands off free speech! We won’t surrender,” opposed proposed amendments to LRT’s governing law, which critics argue threaten media independence.

The legislative changes were drafted after lawmakers attempted last December to simplify procedures for dismissing LRT’s director general.