Lithuania considers matchmaking dance events to tackle demographic crisis

Lithuania’s government is exploring a state-organised matchmaking initiative—including dance events—to address the country’s demographic decline, social security and labour minister Jūratė Zailskienė announced on Thursday, LRT reports.

Speaking to journalists at the Seimas, Zailskienė said authorities are discussing a campaign this autumn where people could meet and dance, aiming to encourage live social interaction and help young adults find partners. The idea follows earlier proposals to revive “old-school discotheques,” which the minister noted were once common in schools, universities, and cultural centres as places to socialise.

“Nightclubs aren’t seen as ideal for meeting people anymore,” she said. “We’re already in talks with specialists, businesses, and cultural workers. This autumn, we’re planning an event where people can meet, dance, and—most importantly—look at each other, start families, and help save Lithuania. This is no longer a joke.”

The initial event would be held in Vilnius, with plans to expand the “For the Family” social campaign in August. Zailskienė stressed the need for collective action, involving media, politicians, and businesses to address Lithuania’s shrinking population.

On May 15, International Family Day, the government will also recognise the country’s most family-friendly municipality and launch “Everything for the Family” advertising banners on ministry websites, detailing support measures available across institutions.

The minister reiterated support for expanded assisted reproduction access, including for unmarried couples and single women with medically confirmed infertility, as part of broader efforts to boost birth rates. Current proposals could increase annual births by an estimated 700 children through state-funded fertility treatments.

“What matters most is that a child grows up with loving parents,” Zailskienė said. “The state must help those who want children.”

Her comments come as President Gitanas Nausėda prepares a separate initiative to introduce a zero-income tax rate for large families amid Lithuania’s deepening demographic crisis.