Lithuania is discussing the possible introduction of a legislative ban preventing citizens of Belarus and Russia from participating in international sports and scientific events held in the country. The measure is being considered by several ministries. The corresponding proposal has been sent to the Foreign Ministry, BNS reported.
“In May, we submitted a proposal to the Ministry of Foreign Affairs to include in the law on restrictive measures introduced in connection with military aggression against Ukraine additional restrictions preventing citizens of aggressor states from participating in international events held in Lithuania in the fields of education, science, studies and sports. For example, sports competitions, scientific forums and olympiads,” Lithuanian Education Minister Raminta Popovienė said.
According to the minister, relevant discussions are currently underway at the Foreign Ministry.
In April, Lithuania’s sports community appealed to the country’s leadership and state institutions with a request to legislatively ban Belarusian and Russian athletes from participating in competitions held in Lithuania.
Lithuania currently has recommendations issued by the Ministry of Education, Science and Sport urging national sports federations not to allow citizens of aggressor states to participate in competitions in Lithuania. If athletes from those countries do take part in sporting events, they are required to sign a declaration condemning Russia’s military actions against Ukraine.