A notable Lithuanian psychiatrist was dismissed after controversial comments about homosexuality, and the case is set to be reviewed by a higher court.
In Lithuania, the Supreme Court has agreed to reopen the case of psychiatrist Aleksandras Alekseičikas Kirinovas, who was dismissed from his role at the Vilnius Mental Health Centre after making public statements suggesting that homosexuality can be treated. His comments sparked widespread outrage, leading to his termination in May of the previous year. Kirinovas's lawyers are appealing the previous court's decision, seeking to have his position reinstated.
The case highlights ongoing debates surrounding LGBTQ+ rights and public attitudes toward homosexuality in Lithuania, a country that has historically struggled with issues of acceptance and discrimination against the LGBTQ+ community. Kirinovas’s assertion that homosexuality is a condition that can be changed, which he stated during an interview with 'Šiaurės Atėnai', intersects with broader discussions about mental health, personal beliefs, and professional responsibilities.
The Supreme Court is set to deliver a final and unappealable decision on the matter by March 24. The outcome will not only determine Kirinovas's employment status but could also impact public discourse on similar issues within Lithuania, reflecting the intricate balance between personal rights and professional conduct in the face of evolving societal norms regarding sexual orientation.
