The Many faces of exclusionism in Lithuania: Is Lithuanian youth tolerant enough to lead Lithuania towards diverse and open society?

LTReikšminiai žodžiai: Jaunimas; Tolerancija; Vertybės; Atvira visuomenė; Youth; Tolerance; Values; Open society.

ENThis chapter aimed to analyse the many faces of exclusionism among Lithuanian youth and answer the question whether Lithuanian youth is tolerant enough to lead Lithuania towards diverse and open society. To sum up the analysis of policies we can argue that no generally accepted policy concept exists to raise awareness of young persons on the advantages and problems associated with multicultural cooperation, tolerance and diversity in order to emphasize its positive contribution to Lithuanian society. Only a few individual initiatives by NGO's or other organizations aimed at promoting acceptance of differences and tolerance. The analysis of policy documents also signal a need for a comprehensive approach to measures and initiatives that may serve as an input for promotion of inclusive attitudes towards diversity among youth. Taking into account the survey data we may conclude that political and theoretical statements of tolerant society are not necessary consistent with the social reality. Tolerance among Lithuanian youth is nominally declared, but less of it actually exists. Our study demonstrated that young people are generally quite prejudiced about such social groups as Roma, Muslims and homosexuals and quite intolerant even in comparison to general population surveys. The study also demonstrated that contacts of Lithuanian youth with people from diversity groups do not significantly influence their attitudes on diversity: young persons who have one or more close friends from diverse background report the same opinions as all surveyed participants. Our research results signal that it is not sufficient simply bringing young people from different backgrounds together to reduce prejudice and encourage tolerant and respectful relations. [Extract, p. 109]