Lithuania considers phasing out Russian as 2nd foreign language in schools by 2026

LONDON

Lithuania may remove Russian as a second foreign language in schools by 2026, citing changing student preferences and rising geopolitical concerns, a minister said.

Vice Education, Science and Sport Minister Jonas Petkevicius said Wednesday that consultations will begin with the Seimas Education and Science Committee, as well as the wider public, on potentially removing Russian from the national curriculum.

“We are observing trends and will certainly be considering the possibility of dropping Russian as a second foreign language,” Petkevicius told LRT RADIO.

He stressed the importance of ensuring there are enough qualified teachers for other foreign languages before any decision is made.

The proposal is expected to be formally discussed in the parliamentary committee in the coming months and the change could come into effect as early as September 2026.