Lithuania

At the start of the pandemic, Lithuania, like the rest of the world, imposed a nationwide lockdown to stop the spread of the virus. This significantly impacted students of all ages. In March 2020, all childcare and education services were shut down, forcing schools, universities to move all education online. The Lithuanian education system was challenged, as some students did not have access to devices that were crucial for learning. All the classes were held online for the rest of the academic year. At the end of summer, some schools tried to implement a hybrid way of teaching – by combining online education and classroom teaching. However, this only applied to younger students, since students from years eight to twelve were still taught online. 

In December 2020, the lockdown was extended, and all schools had to resume online learning. As the vaccines became more available, teachers and education workers were one first groups to be vaccinated to allow schools to start running again. From March 2021, the restrictions were partially lifted: sports and other extracurricular activities were resumed. Decisions regarding how to provide education were left to local municipalities and schools. Many schools returned to contact learning. However, both students and teachers had to be either vaccinated or take tests on a frequent basis. As the new academic year started in September 2021, all students returned to school, although some precautions were taken to ensure the safety of students and teachers. University students were only allowed to return to university if they had been vaccinated. In February 2022, all restrictions were lifted (Ministry of Education, Science and Sport of the Republic of Lithuania).

Russia's war in Ukraine has significantly impacted the youth of Lithuania. This war so close to home, makes Lithuanians concerned about stability and security. The war has also reminded Lithuania of its own history, raised concerns about Russia’s intentions, and what it's like to have your freedom taken away. 

For many youths it was a wake-up call. Stability, freedom, and democratic values that were taken for granted, now seemed fragile and at risk of disappearing. Lithuanians empathised with Ukrainians and felt a shared sense of solidarity in their pursuit of freedom and self-determination. Since the war began, Lithuanians have opened their arms and welcomed over 74.000 Ukrainian refugees. This is the largest number of refugees to ever enter the country. Several youths have joined NGO's and taken on roles as volunteers, offering their help to Ukrainian refugees or for those people who are still in the war-affected areas.