Advancing Lithuania’s Multi-sectoral Approach to Child Protection Across Three Ministries

This session will examine Lithuania’s evolving multi-sectoral child protection framework, advancing coordination among the Ministries of Education, Science and Sport; Ministry of Social Security and Labour; and Ministry of Health. Speakers will present recent policy innovations, inter-ministerial agreements, cross-sectoral coordination mechanisms, and evidence-based approaches that enhance early risk detection, timely intervention, and sustained support for children and families.

Key Themes & Ministerial Focus Areas

• From the Ministry of Education, Science and Sport: Embedding early vulnerability screening within pre-school and primary education; developing holistic support systems in schools to address academic, social-emotional, and protection needs.
• From the Ministry of Social Security and Labour: Strengthening social support pathways to ensure continuity of service access across sectors; integrating preventive and responsive measures within child welfare and family support systems.
• From the Ministry of Health (SAM): Promoting “Mental Health in All Policies” and advancing cross-sectoral partnerships to anchor child and adolescent mental well-being across health, education, and social systems.

Attendees will gain insights into lessons learned, ongoing challenges, and concrete steps taken to safeguard children’s rights, with the principle of the best interests of every child central to policy and practice.