Lithuanian language chief sparks outrage over defence of racial terms “negras” and “čigonas”

The head of Lithuania’s State Language Inspectorate, Audrius Valotka, has triggered a public backlash after defending the use of the terms negras (Black person) and čigonas (Roma person) as “good, normal words,” LRT.lt reports. The Culture Ministry has summoned Valotka for talks on Monday and categorically rejected his statements.

In comments published by LRT, Valotka argued that both terms are “permissible” and dismissed criticism of a Vilnus grocery store named “Čigono daržas” (The Roma’s Garden) as manufactured outrage. “The word negras is a normal, permissible word. […] The word čigonas is an old, traditional, good word,” he stated, adding that Roma people “should not regulate the Lithuanian language.”

Former Culture Minister Simonas Kairys condemned Valotka’s remarks, questioning how he retains his post after repeated controversies. “Mr Valotka is unfit for this role,” Kairys wrote on social media, criticising the ministry’s delayed response. The Lithuanian Human Rights Centre also intervened, stressing that language “is not just words—it’s a relationship with people” and warning that Valotka’s statements promote xenophobia and stigmatise minorities.

Culture Minister Vaida Aleknavičienė later issued a statement emphasising that language must reflect “mutual respect and dignity.” She called Valotka’s public defence of the terms—despite their perceived offensiveness to affected communities—”unacceptable,” adding that officials must uphold higher ethical standards. The ministry confirmed Valotka will be asked to explain his comments in Monday’s meeting.

This is not the first time Valotka has faced criticism for his views on language. In 2025, human rights groups urged the Culture Ministry not to reappoint him, citing previous statements they claimed fostered discrimination.