Gay & Lesbian

Although Lithuania is regarded as one of the most homophobic countries, but gay men, lesbians, bisexuals and transgendered people will not notice it while walking in the streets of Vilnius or other Lithuanian city. Not homophobia but tolerance is the characteristic feature of Lithuania, which was already observed by the medieval chroniclers in Europe. Of course, somewhere in the remote Lithuanian village one probably should not openly reveal his “non-traditional sexual orientation” as Lithuanians love to call, or show feelings to one’s partner. You can simply scare off people around, or you can be treated as UFO. Still, we need to admit the fact that the majority of homosexual people are still hiding in Lithuania, and probably they are almost the only social group still forced to keep its identity in secret, and live underground. Homophobia has many reasons, but perhaps the most important of them lies in Christian and post-Soviet culture, where sexuality is still considered taboo. On the other hand, Lithuania is not only Catholic but also rapidly developing country, which creates and takes over new democratic and European traditions; thus, one will find here educated and cultured people with equality and respect for human rights as not only declared, but also given values. For them one can be truly open, and treat them with ease. Homophobic culture can be changed not only by the locals, but also by tourists and visitors, as homophobia has certainly nothing in common with the Lithuanian traditions and cultural heritage. First procession of homosexuals and their friends - “to fight for equality” in Lithuania - BalticPride’2010 has shown that the Lithuanian authorities are able to ensure the safety of GLBT people, and to defend the basic human rights.

\n Lithuania has two active organizations - Lithuanian Gay League and Tolerant Youth Association - defending the rights of homosexuals and other people belonging to this group. Although they do not offer tourism services, they will be happy to advise you on the matters of interest. Lithuania has several web sites that can provide all the relevant information in Lithuanian and more languages - www.gayline.lt or www.gay.lt. In the major cities of Lithuania - Vilnius, Kaunas and Klaipeda – gay men and lesbians probably can find entertainment easier than in the province, unfortunately, wide range of choice is not available. Some of gay men and lesbian clubs are no different from other European institutions of the same kind; perhaps only those who are looking for the dark rooms will not find any, as Lithuanians are very shy. Of course, almost all gay clubs are disco style aimed at young people and loud music; however, after several glasses of beer or wine, not only the small GLBT community but also their older friends and colleagues are willing to stop by. You will barely find clubs exclusively for men or women in Lithuania (except the bad reputation kitsch-style sauna for men in Vilnius). During summer, many gay men gather in Palanga men’s beach, however, one can find places for nudists in other parts of Lithuania, as well. Those who want to have some fun can find really great and different dance and music clubs in the capital, but they should behave in a more “heterosexual” way, and try to be careful. In conclusion, although there are few or no restaurants, cafes, hotels and other public places in Lithuania exclusively for the GLBT community, or places declaring their friendship for GLBT people, there are people in Lithuania to whom you can be open, and who will accept you as you are. In case you encounter some problems, you can always contact the Office of the Equal Opportunities Ombudsman - see. www.lygybe.lt , or your country’s embassy in Lithuania.