Parliamentary members who unsuccessfully opposed extension of the law in 1997 for another two years said it was open to abuse and does not meet European Union standards. The report notes, however, that such violations decreased in 1997 compared with 1996. The Lithuanian constitution prohibits discrimination against women, but the practice persists, says the report. Abuse of women at home is reportedy common, especially due to alcohol abuse by husbands, and facilities for helping are only now being formed. It notes that the first women's shelter, funded in part by Norway, has just opened.
Child abuse is also a problem, says the report.
It says the local press has been thorough in reporting increases in cruelty to children, including sexual abuse, intentional starvation, beatings and murder. Inc. All Rights Reserved.