Lithuanian PM proposes £32million in compensation to Holocaust victims
90 percent of the 220,000 Jews in Lithuania were killed by Nazis and collaborates during the war. About 5,000 Jews currently live there.
The World Jewish Restitution Organization (WJRO) welcomed a law proposal by the Lithuanian Prime Minister that would provide £32 million in compensation to Holocaust victims.
Parts of the funds proposed by Prime Minister Ingrida Šimonytė would also be earmarked for the Lithuanian Good Will Foundation, which was established in 2011 by the Foundation for Lithuanian Jewish Heritage.
WJRO issued a statement saying the funds would have a “significant impact on strengthening and supporting Jewish communal life in Lithuania and addressing the welfare needs of the elderly, even though it may only be a fraction of the value of prewar Jewish property.”
“It also sets Lithuania apart from most other countries in the region that have yet to take any measure with respect to heirless property,” it added.
During World War II, the Nazis and local collaborators killed over 90% of the 220,000 Jews in Lithuania. About 5,000 Jews currently live there.
Keep community journalism free.
Jewish News is free for everyone. No paywall. No barriers. Just trusted journalism for anyone who wants to stay connected to Jewish life in Britain.
If you value that, please support us.
From as little as £5 a month, you can help keep our journalism free and accessible to all.
Every day, we report on the issues that matter to our community. We celebrate achievements, support charities, challenge antisemitism and ensure Jewish voices are heard more widely.
From as little as £5 a month, you can help us continue to:
- Report on the stories shaping Jewish life in the UK and beyond
- Bring our community together through shared stories, events and campaigns
- Celebrate the people, culture and moments that define our community
- Support organisations doing vital work across Jewish Britain
You can make a one-off donation or become a regular supporter. Every contribution helps keep our journalism free, independent and accessible to all.
If everyone who values Jewish News gave a small amount, it would make a real difference to our future.
