L. Mažylis: "I am a Witness to World Affairs in the EP"
L. Mažylis discusses his unexpected path into politics, influenced by a significant historical discovery in Lithuania.
L. Mažylis's journey into high politics began unusually after he discovered the original resolution regarding the declaration of Lithuania's independence on February 16, 1918, in a German diplomatic archive in March 2017. This important document, which many historians have sought, was brought to Lithuania and paved Mažylis's way to European politics, leading to his election to the European Parliament (EP) in 2019 as a representative of the Homeland Union-Lithuanian Christian Democrats.
In an interview with 'Lietuvos rytas,' Mažylis talks about his experiences leading up to February 16 and how his work in the European Parliament has transformed his life. He emphasizes the importance of political intuition and the ability to accurately gauge various events, noting instances where he had to make decisions with precision timing. This experience in the EP has taught him to act consistently and to maintain focus, whether in a train station, library, or while solving pressing issues.
As Lithuania approaches this significant anniversary, Mažylis reflects on how the discovery of the document not only altered his personal trajectory but also underscored the importance of history and memory in shaping contemporary political identities and responsibilities. His role as a witness to world affairs in the EP accentuates the connection between historical events and present-day governance, particularly regarding Lithuania's position within the European framework.