Lithuanian parliament holds final vote on controversial LRT law amendments

The Lithuanian parliament is holding its final vote on amendments to the law governing public broadcaster LRT on Tuesday, following months of heated debate and protests, LRT.lt reports.

Speaker of the Seimas Juozas Olekas acknowledged the process had been “long and at times crossed boundaries,” but expressed confidence that the final version would provide “clearer, more modern regulation” for LRT, aligning with its public service mission. He added that the changes would strengthen governance and address issues raised by the State Audit Office.

Conservative MP Vytautas Juozapaitis proposed delaying the vote until Thursday, citing last-minute proposals from disability organisations regarding representation on LRT’s governing board. His request was rejected. Social Democrat Tadas Barauskas also failed to secure a 30-minute recess, with Olekas stating that procedural breaks had already been exhausted.

Amendments follow failed fast-track attempt

The push to amend LRT’s governing law began late last year when the ruling coalition attempted to fast-track changes—including simplified dismissal procedures for the director general—but withdrew the bill after mass protests and over 600 opposition amendments.

The revised draft introduces a new LRT board, alters the composition of its council, and sets conditions for early dismissal of the director general. The Venice Commission, which reviewed the proposal, recommended further refinements, particularly on dismissal rules, urging they apply only to future appointees.

Kęstutis Vilkauskas, chair of the Seimas Culture Committee, said the committee had incorporated the Commission’s recommendations. The working group’s draft received around 150 parliamentary amendments, plus submissions from 15 organisations, citizens, and state bodies, along with over 40 legal notes from the Seimas Legal Department.

Protests against the amendments have been ongoing, with critics arguing they threaten LRT’s editorial independence. The changes follow a 2023 attempt to ease dismissal rules for the broadcaster’s leadership.