Lithuanian leaders mark International Workers’ Day with messages of unity and labour rights

Prime Minister Inga Ruginienė and President Gitanas Nausėda have extended greetings to Lithuania’s residents on International Workers’ Day, honouring the contributions of workers to the country’s prosperity, reports LRT.

In a joint statement, the leaders emphasised that the holiday recognises the meaningful daily efforts of every working person, their creativity, and their role in strengthening communities. “The work of each individual—not only drives our economy but also builds a strong, just, and united society,” the president’s message read.

Nausėda highlighted growing trust, constructive dialogue, and shared efforts to ensure fair working conditions as signs of progress. “By continuing on this path, we will not only improve workers’ welfare but also strengthen the business environment and the entire national economy,” he said.

Prime Minister Ruginienė focused on social security and the importance of fair employer-employee relations. She stressed that success depends on protecting the most vulnerable and valuing all professions equally, including unpaid labour—often disproportionately shouldered by women—such as childcare, elder care, and household management.

“Society is changing, the economy is evolving, and new professions emerge while old ones fade,” Ruginienė noted. “Yet today, more than ever, we are interconnected through the shared value created by all forms of work—whether by teachers, doctors, salespeople, drivers, cleaners, soldiers, or civil servants. This day reminds us that work is not an abstraction; behind it, there is always a person.”

International Workers’ Day, originating in 1886, was officially recognised as a public holiday in Lithuania in 1996 to draw attention to workers’ rights. The prime minister also marked the 22nd anniversary of Lithuania’s EU membership, calling it a “values-based choice” that has strengthened the country’s economy, state institutions, and societal resilience.

“In today’s geopolitical tensions, European unity is vital to defend freedom, support those fighting for it, and ensure security for our people,” Ruginienė said. She urged citizens to cherish their European path, reinforce mutual trust, and remain united against disinformation and hybrid threats.