Lithuania's Language Inspection reports receiving around 60 complaints in two months about service providers who do not speak Lithuanian, emphasizing the need for public involvement.
The Lithuanian Language Inspection has reported receiving approximately 60 complaints over the last two months about foreigners working in service sectors who cannot communicate in Lithuanian. Complaints have primarily come from customers dissatisfied with the language barriers encountered with various service providers, including couriers, taxi drivers, massage therapists, and hairdressers. This situation raises concerns about language accessibility in everyday services and customer experiences.
A. Valotka, the head of the Language Inspection, emphasized that the agency's resources are limited in addressing these language issues, making public involvement crucial. Valotka stated that neither the Language Inspection nor municipal language regulators can significantly improve the language situation without support from the community and other institutions. He urged the public to express their dissatisfaction to service providers directly, which could promote accountability and change.
When the Language Inspection receives complaints, they reach out to the respective service providers and request proof of employees' knowledge of the state language. For instance, if a complaint is lodged against a hairdresser, the inspection contacts the salon to obtain employee certification in Lithuanian. This proactive approach aims to ensure that service providers comply with language requirements, thereby enhancing communication and service quality for Lithuanian-speaking residents.
