Today, as a new political coalition is being formed between the Social Democrats and the Democrats “For Lithuania”, the social partners held a press conference to comment on the Government’s decision to reject the joint agreement reached by workers’ and employers’ organisations on the minimum monthly wage (MMW).

Dalia Jakutavičė, Acting President of the Lithuanian Trade Union Confederation (LPSK), stressed that the compromise reached between workers’ and employers’ representatives was important proof that the Tripartite Council is not merely a formal institution, but a place where social dialogue can deliver tangible results.

“We therefore regret that the Government did not take this agreement as the basis for its final decision,” she emphasised.

At the same time, trade unions maintain that the well-being of workers remains their highest priority. For this reason, workers’ representatives positively assess the Government’s proposal to increase the minimum monthly wage by 8% – or €92, bringing it to €1,245 gross – as it will help preserve the purchasing power of the lowest-paid workers.

Dalia Jakutavičė also noted that, at a time when society is facing economic and geopolitical uncertainty, people need stability and predictability more than ever. Decisions should be taken in a timely manner so that workers can be confident their incomes will increase, while businesses can operate under clearer and more predictable conditions.

Representatives of both workers and employers hope that the new governing coalition will view social dialogue not as a mere formality, but as one of the most important tools for reaching balanced and sustainable decisions – a cornerstone of democratic governance that must be protected and strengthened.

Watch the full press conference here:
https://bit.ly/3Qngkyb