Democratic Party resolution prioritises demography and EU’s role in continental security

The ruling Democratic Party “For Lithuania” adopted a resolution at its conference on Saturday, urging the government to prioritise demographic issues in next year’s state budget and emphasising the European Union as the sole viable framework for upholding a rules-based international order, LRT reports.

The resolution endorses the party’s newly signed coalition agreement and the 21st government’s programme, which outline key national priorities, including demographic challenges. The document calls for ambitious coalition measures to address the demographic crisis during 2027 budget negotiations, alongside priorities led by the party’s ministers.

Democrats highlight that Lithuania’s fertility rate has hit historic lows, with the total fertility rate at approximately 0.99–1.0 children per woman—among the lowest globally. The party supports coalition plans to increase family support, ensure income stability for parents, introduce free school meals for all primary students, and expand childcare services.

Additional proposals include developing a municipal housing policy to improve accessibility, strengthening informal education, child day centres, full-day schools, and regional support networks for families.

With Lithuania set to assume the EU Council presidency in the first half of next year, the resolution notes that many political parties lack a clear vision for European security. It states that the EU is the only realistic framework for fulfilling Lithuania’s constitutional obligation to contribute to a just international order.

The party argues that declining US influence must be offset by stronger EU foreign and security policy coordination, a reinforced European NATO framework, and reforms to veto powers. It also calls for faster, more effective EU decision-making while protecting smaller member states.

The resolution urges the party to strengthen its influence and member motivation through committees and working groups ahead of upcoming municipal and parliamentary elections. It stresses the need for transparent, honest, and competent leadership, prioritising national interests over personal or group gains to bolster trust in the party, democratic politics, and state institutions.

The party reaffirmed its political identity as “Responsible politics for a strong Lithuania,” aiming to restore public trust in the state and its institutions while ensuring a clear direction for Lithuania’s development—safe, just, modern, democratic, and people-centred.