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Ensuring Equal Opportunities and Non-Discrimination in the Provision of Social Services in Lithuania: Between Professional Empathy and Municipal Policy Standards

Year: 2025

Type: article

Abstract: Despite Lithuania’s legal and policy efforts to promote equality, marginalized social groups continue to face obstacles in accessing public services. This study investigates how frontline social service providers in Klaipėda municipality navigate the tension between empathy for clients and adherence to policy requirements. Using street-level bureaucracy theory, the research analyzes how professional discretion influences the implementation of equality measures. Qualitative data from 12 interviews and one focus group with social workers, youth workers, and case managers reveal that discrimination, both direct and indirect, often stems from institutional constraints, limited resources, and procedural complexity. Although municipal policies formally support equality, practitioners perceive them as overly bureaucratic and disconnected from real-world practice. Notably, challenges remain in addressing issues related to sexual orientation. The study emphasizes the importance of institutional culture and ethical practice in promoting non-discrimination and concludes by recommending a deeper integration of equality principles into everyday work through enhanced professional autonomy and organizational commitment.

Source: Transylvanian Review of Administrative Sciences

DOI: 10.24193/tras.76e.4

Authors: Jaroslav DVORAK, Remigijus CIVINSKAS

Institutions: Klaipėda University, Vytautas Magnus University

Language: English

Topic: Public Policy and Administration Research

Subfield: Public Administration

Field: Social Sciences

Domain: Social Sciences

SDGs: Reduced inequalities, Peace, justice, and strong institutions, Sustainable cities and communities

Open Access status: diamond

OpenAlex ID: W7104179659

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