Homelessness in Lithuania: policy and research

• Academia: straipsnio tekstas

ENThis paper reviews developments in social policy and services related to homelessness in Lithuania over the last 20 years. Using the form of a descriptive case study, it provides an overview of how homelessness is conceptualised, the organisation of homelessness services, the development of social policy related to homelessness, and the support services available within the provision and maintenance of housing, as well as a review of relevant research on homelessness in Lithuania. The paper draws on secondary analyses of legislation, both published and unpublished research results and other sources. It discusses two parallel policies administrated by different departments of the Lithuanian government: tackling homelessness and increasing housing quality, and using social housing to alleviate housing poverty. Finally, findings on the problem of homelessness and its relationship to housing policy in the Lithuanian context are discussed. Keywords: homelessness, Lithuania, social housing, social services, government responses. [From the publication]