Investors’ Forum also believes that legalizing partnerships would significantly contribute to supporting human rights in Lithuania while at the same time improving the business environment and investment climate.
“A tolerant society that defends the rights of all its members equally is a vitally important factor, which ensures the country is appealing to live, do business and invest in. From the day it was established, the association Investors’ Forum has been supportive of the principles of equal rights and opportunities, and we are firmly in support of it applying to all areas of life. We maintain the position that legalizing partnerships is extremely important for protecting the Lithuanian citizens’ rights and ensuring their welfare. This would be another step towards reinforcing democracy as well as a positive signal to the international investor community,” Rolandas Valiūnas, Board Chairman of the association Investors’ Forum, notes.
The investors highlight the position of the World Bank, which emphasizes the importance of social inclusion for the economy. It has been calculated that gender inequality on its own results in the global economy losing 160 trillion US dollars every year. The association stresses that ensuring equal rights for all social groups is crucial in seeking to help the economic recovery after the pandemic. An essential precondition for ensuring inclusion and equal opportunities is the right for all citizens to be able to handle safely and resolve questions pertaining to their personal life, property, and other issues.
“We do not doubt that it is high time for Lithuania to join Estonia and numerous Western European countries which have already legalized same-sex partnership or marriage. However, it is important to note that the partnership law encompasses a far broader segment of society than is sometimes claimed. The law would offer an alternative to all individuals building a life together, opening opportunities for civilized resolution of inheritance and other property questions, ensuring the right to care for one’s close ones in need or when they are receiving healthcare services. The law would allow for the effective protection of the rights of foreigners living with their partners, which is crucial for foreign citizens thinking of tying their future and business plans to Lithuania,” Rūta Skyrienė, Executive Director for the association Investors’ Forum, comments.
The association’s members note that only Lithuania and five other countries have yet to legalize partnership from all European Union countries. The business representatives believe that Lithuania’s current position on partnership reduces its appeal to foreign investors and professionals potentially considering moving and set up businesses here.
