Lithuanian PM calls for public sex offender register

Lithuania should create a public register of people convicted of sexual crimes, Prime Minister Mindaugas Sinkevičius said, arguing it could help prevent offences, LRT reported.

“We are working on this,” Sinkevičius told reporters at the government headquarters on Wednesday. He said the determination to establish a register of sexual offenders remained, noting that parliamentary Speaker Juozas Olekas had previously proposed the initiative.

Sinkevičius said a register could complement the government’s plan to combat sexual offences. He believes it could help parents identify people in their neighbourhoods who have been convicted of such crimes. The register might include photographs as well as names, he said.

He cited an example from his hometown in which parents noticed a man repeatedly watching children at a playground and later learned that he had been convicted of sexual offences. Sinkevičius said the details of a register, including how long someone would remain listed, still needed discussion, but he remained convinced Lithuania should have one.

On Wednesday, the government approved an inter-agency plan to prevent sexual offences more effectively, protect minors and reduce the risk of reoffending. The measures include tougher penalties and steps to prevent sexual violence against children.

The plan, presented by Justice Minister Rita Tamašunienė, also calls for clarifying the duty to report suspected violations of children’s rights, setting a standard for safe environments for children, and restricting suspects and accused persons from working or carrying out activities involving contact with children.