Regina Narusiene, President of the World Lithuanian Community

In this exclusive interview with VilNews, American-Lithuanian Regina Narusiene says that se feels she has always been personally well received in Lithuania:

“Recently however, I’ve heard some in Lithuania say that Lithuania does not need or want our help. Still I see significant reluctance to improve the country’s legal systems. It seems that some of the country’s leaders simply are not ready to or interested in implementing urgently needed reforms. I am saddened to see the public’s perception that rule of law is still not working effectively in Lithuania.” Regina sighs a little deflated when she shares those thoughts with me.

I ask her to express some thoughts on what it takes to get Lithuania to grow stronger and better over the years to come. I’ll let her words finish my report:

“Let me first say that it is deeply tragic to see so many young, talented and beautiful people leave this country. Some say that it is now no longer talk of emigration, but evacuation. It is therefore obvious that much more must be done to pave the way for good jobs and opportunities for the country’s younger population. But it is also my opinion that we need a shift in mindset among some of the country’s leaders.”

“Last but not least, I yearn to see far more of the population, young and old, engaged in voluntary public oriented organizations and activities. That is exactly what democracy for a large part is about, and it does not take much. Lithuania’s people should begin to take such initiatives themselves. A good, democratic society consists of people who give of themselves to help each other. Lithuania has unfortunately still a long way to go in this respect.”

“I will conclude by saying that it is important for the nation to maintain good relations with all Lithuanians, and their descendants, now living in other countries.”

“Lithuania needs a new global strategy, and we in the ‘Lithuanian World Community’ will do our utmost to contribute to such a strategy. Lithuania has an enormously large group of smart Lithuanians and good hearts outside the country, and it is important that Lithuania invite to dialogue with them and seek their support and input to promote a better future for Lithuania, the country we all love. “