Who is this candidate? How 15min wrote earlier, Š. Birutis is a former member of the European Parliament (2004–2009), Member of the Seimas (2012–2016), Minister of Culture (2012–2016).
He came to the post of Minister of Culture as a representative of the Labor Party, whose chairman he was in 2017-2018. However, he left this party in 2019 and became a member of the Lithuanian Social Democratic Party in 2022.
In 2016, the Supreme Commission for Official Ethics (VTEK) statedthat Š. Birutis confused interests by not declaring his ties with the company “Agrolitas” registered in Bulgaria.
He is also there one of the millionaires, that entered the Seimas this year. His assets amount to 1.07 million. euros.
Š. Birutis as a candidate for the Minister of Culture was evaluated 15min interviewed experts.
A. Rimkutė: it is likely that Š. Birutis will be cautious, passive and not seeking a breakthrough
Cultural policy researcher, Vilnius University Kaunas faculty lecturer dr. Audronė Rimkutė considered that when evaluating ministers retrospectively, the context of their tenure should be kept in mind:
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**Interview with Šarūnas Birutis, Former Minister of Culture and Current Member of the Lithuanian Social Democratic Party**
**Editor:** Šarūnas, thank you for joining us. You have quite a diverse political background, having served in various roles including as a member of the European Parliament and Minister of Culture. Can you share what motivated your transition from the Labor Party to the Lithuanian Social Democratic Party in 2022?
**Šarūnas Birutis:** Thank you for having me. My move to the Lithuanian Social Democratic Party was driven by a desire to align my political values with a party that emphasizes social justice, public welfare, and cultural development. After years in the Labor Party, I felt it was time to embrace an organization that more closely reflects my vision for Lithuania’s future.
**Editor:** You were Minister of Culture during a pivotal time in Lithuania’s cultural policy. What do you consider your most significant achievements in that role?
**Šarūnas Birutis:** I believe one of my key achievements was fostering greater investment in the arts and promoting cultural heritage. We worked to enhance the visibility of Lithuanian artists both domestically and abroad, which is crucial for preserving our national identity while integrating into the broader European cultural landscape.
**Editor:** Recently, the Supreme Commission for Official Ethics stated that you failed to declare your interests related to a Bulgarian company. How do you respond to this finding, and what measures do you think should be taken to ensure transparency among public officials?
**Šarūnas Birutis:** I acknowledge that there were oversights in my declarations concerning “Agrolitas.” However, I have always aimed to act in the interest of the public. Moving forward, it’s essential that we implement stricter guidelines for transparency and ethics, to restore public trust in government and prevent such situations in the future.
**Editor:** As a newly elected member of the Seimas and a millionaire with reported assets of over €1 million, how do you plan to advocate for economic policies that benefit all Lithuanians, particularly those who are less affluent?
**Šarūnas Birutis:** Wealth should be a means to support others rather than a barrier. I aim to push for policies that focus on equitable economic growth, ensuring access to education and healthcare for all. By promoting cooperation between the private sector and social initiatives, we can create an environment where everyone has the opportunity to prosper.
**Editor:** Thank you, Šarūnas. It’s been enlightening to discuss your experiences and aspirations. We look forward to seeing how you contribute to Lithuania’s future.
**Šarūnas Birutis:** Thank you for the opportunity! I’m excited to serve and work towards a better Lithuania.
