Lithuania proposes exempting more welfare recipients from mandatory community work

The Lithuanian Ministry of Social Security and Labour has proposed expanding exemptions for welfare recipients from mandatory community service, a move opposed by many municipalities that rely on this workforce for basic tasks, LRT reports.

Local governments have long depended on hundreds of welfare recipients to perform unskilled labour, particularly in rural areas where demand peaks in warmer months. In Tauragė district, for example, around 50 people currently work monthly in exchange for benefits, handling tasks like environmental maintenance, path upkeep, and assisting food banks.

Žilvinas Majus, Tauragė’s elder, argued that such work fosters responsibility, discipline, and job skills among beneficiaries. “Most elders believe this is the recipients’ duty to the community—since benefits come from public funds, this ensures accountability and keeps people engaged,” he said.

Under current rules, seniors, disabled individuals, and single parents are exempt. The ministry now proposes adding those within five years of retirement age, participants in social reintegration or addiction prevention programs, and anyone living over 3 km from assigned work sites.

Critics, including Akmenė district mayor Vitalijus Mitrofanovas, warn the changes could reduce work incentives and increase dependency. After Akmenė introduced work requirements, welfare rolls halved. “We’re left supporting those who refuse employment,” Mitrofanovas said, adding that local businesses struggle to fill even 50 positions despite incentives.

The ministry counters that municipalities should prioritise unemployment programs, reserving community work only for long-term beneficiaries who decline other opportunities. “First, encourage participation in employment schemes. Only those refusing for over three months should be assigned community tasks,” said ministry representative Svetlana Kulpina.

Last year, about 60,000 Lithuanians received monthly welfare, with roughly 14,000 engaged in community work.