A Lithuanian woman shares her experience of returning to Lithuania from the UK after 16 years and the cultural challenges she faced.
A Lithuanian woman recounts her experience after returning to her home country with her three children following 16 years of living in the UK. She chose to settle in Ε iauliai and initially found the transition smooth, securing a temporary rental apartment while looking for a permanent home. She was able to find a preschool for her twin daughters and a school for her son, making it seem like everything was falling into place at first.
However, her visit to the Employment Office revealed the harsh realities of reintegrating. Encountering an elderly woman who seemed out of touch with modern attitudes, the woman felt judged and demeaned, particularly as the staff member spoke to her as if she were a beggar. The official showed little interest in her qualifications or previous employment in the UK, only regarding her past work as a shop assistant, highlighting the challenges faced by returning emigrants when they are confronted with outdated perceptions and lack of understanding.
This experience not only illustrates the personal cultural shock the woman underwent but also sheds light on the broader issues of reintegration for those returning to Lithuania after long periods abroad. It speaks to the need for more supportive and understanding services for emigrants, recognizing their diverse experiences and skills acquired while living in different cultural contexts.
