The survey highlighted that the primary barriers to support are a lack of time and doubts about individuals' ability to effect change. This week, coinciding with the "Baltic Pride" festival, Danske Bank is encouraging residents to turn their silent support into an active one, becoming visible allies and driving real change.
Limited participation in support activities for crucial issues
From 18 to 26 May, Lithuanians were surveyed about the social issues that matter to them. The goal was to determine whether their support is merely passive or if it translates into active engagement - such as participating in public discussions, campaigns, or providing financial support.
While 85% of respondents indicated that citizenship and patriotism are important subjects, over a third (35%) admitted they are not taking any steps to demonstrate their support for these values. Concerns about climate change were expressed by 79% of residents, yet 45% acknowledged they have not taken any action. Additionally, while 82% affirmed that equal human rights are significant to them, almost half (47%) report they do not actively support these rights in any way.
"Recognising that there are individuals in society whose interests and basic rights are often ignored or violated is just the first step. To drive change, we must take action - whether by participating in public demonstrations, organising initiatives, providing financial support, or even writing a supporting comment on social media and defending vulnerable groups," states Giedrius Dzekunskas, Danske Bank Lithuania Site Manager.
Lack of time and doubts about impact as key barriers to support
The main reasons residents cite for not engaging with important issues include a lack of time, mentioned by 42% of respondents. One in three (35%) do not believe their efforts can effect change, while 34% attributed their inaction to financial constraints. Nearly one in five (19%) expressed feeling too shy to participate, having never engaged in similar activities before. Additionally, 12% indicated they refrain from taking action because they fear standing out or facing negative reactions from others.
“The survey results highlight a decline in our courage and determination to defend important issues. Global events and societal conflicts further fuel this apathy. As one of the largest employers in the country, we recognise our responsibility to advocate for essential values such as diversity, inclusion, sustainability, and social responsibility. We are fortunate to represent a large community, as the business support and the number of volunteering employees that we provide can truly drive change. However, it’s crucial to remember that even one active supporter can accomplish more than a crowd of silent supporters,” asserts G. Dzekunskas.
Every action can contribute to a safer and more inclusive society
Birutė Sabatauskaitė, the Equal Opportunities Ombudsperson, underscores the importance of individual voices within the community:
“Members of the LGBTI+ community continue to face discrimination, hate speech, and even violence. Unfortunately, many of these experiences go unheard because individuals do not seek help. This reluctance often stems from fear and uncertainty about discussing personal matters publicly. Therefore, it is more vital than ever to support those who choose to speak out and report discrimination to our service. Every step and every voice can help foster a safer, more open society,” says B. Sabatauskaitė.
The Equal Opportunities Ombudsperson Office and Danske Bank invite everyone to actively support human rights by joining the "Baltic Pride" parade for LGBTI+ rights on Saturday, 7 June.
