The current turmoil within the Lithuanian Journalists' Union (LŽS) emerged last Thursday, when several members announced their departure from the organization, citing a lack of transparency and accountability in its operations and financial management. Among those who resigned are prominent media figures, including Daiva Žeimytė-Bilienė, who took to Facebook to express her concerns about the union's workings. Their dissatisfaction reflects a broader sentiment of disillusionment with an organization that many believe has fallen short in its responsibilities towards its members.

Criticism has been directed towards the management of the union, particularly regarding the accumulation of debts attributed to improper financial practices. Notably, Rytis Zemkauskas, a journalist and writer, described the LŽS as resembling a Soviet-era journalists' union rather than an effective and modern organization. His comments, shared on social media, underline the frustrations members feel about the current state of the union, including its role in organizing celebratory events rather than advocating for journalists' rights and welfare.

The controversy has implications for the future of the LŽS, as members seek greater accountability and transparency in its operations. With key figures from the union now resigning, the call for reform within the organization is likely to grow louder, and without significant changes, the union risks losing further members and credibility in the eyes of the public and the media community.