Republic of Lithuania

Law No VIII-49

December 19, 1996

It shall be the State's duty to nurture the natural development of national culture, protect it from the destructive influence of the anti-humanistic pseudo-culture, foster the Lithuanian language and safeguard the intellectual potential and the cultural heritage of the Lithuanian Nation and ethnic communities.

Civil consciousness, national self-awareness and tolerance and respect for other nations shall be promoted by the system of education and culture.

The right of citizens belonging to the communities of ethnic minorities to foster their language, culture and traditions shall be protected by law. Ethnic communities shall be an integral part of the Lithuanian civil society.

This Law shall come into effect from November 1, 2000.

I promulgate this Law passed by the Seimas of Lithuania.

PRESIDENT OF THE REPUBLIC

VALDAS ADAMKUS