VILNIUS, Oct 27, 2024 (BSS/AFP) - Vilija Blinkeviciute, Lithuania's likely next prime minister, is a veteran of the Baltic country's centre-left who has spent her entire career in the public sector.
 
She is widely credited for adding vigour to her Social Democratic Party and leading it towards victory in Lithuania, an EU and NATO member with a population of 2.8 million.

After the social democrats took the most seats in the first round of voting two weeks ago, Blinkeviciute pledged to give up her seat in the European Parliament and take on the role of prime minister.

Over several decades, the 64-year-old has built herself a reputation as an advocate for social issues, often appearing caring and maternal in her energetic appeals to address the financial struggles of Lithuanians.

"There is an inner strength that won't let me rest," Blinkeviciute told reporters after weeks of campaigning, rejoicing at the success of the first round.
But she warned of "a long road ahead" for her party, acknowledging that the campaign had been challenging.

"I'm tired. I'm actually tired, I have nothing to hide. I wouldn't trust people who say they never get tired," Blinkeviciute said.

- Long-time minister -

In the second round of voting Sunday, the social democrats and their allies are in pole position to win enough seats to replace the ruling conservatives.

Born in 1960 in the small town of Pakruojis, Blinkeviciute graduated from her local school with the highest distinction.

After studying law in Vilnius, she joined the ministry of social affairs during the Soviet era, setting the stage for her long career in the social sector.

Climbing the ladder, she became a deputy minister in 1996 and served as Minister of Social Security and Labor under five different governments between 2000 and 2008.

She is widely recognised for increasing pensions and social benefits, although critics have accused her of fiscal indiscipline in the lead up to the financial crisis at the end of the decade.

In 2009, Blinkeviciute left for the European Parliament, where she notably chaired a women's rights committee.

But after 15 years between Brussels and Strasbourg, she returned to her home turf as the leader of the Lithuanian social democrats, tasked with rebuilding the party after a disappointing 2020 election.

Quickly becoming one of Lithuania's most popular politicians, she initially avoided confirming if she would lead the party into the 2024 election and take the prime minister role if successful.
This led to speculation among voters, some still remaining doubtful that she would give up her European Parliament seat.

Blinkeviciute is famous in Lithuania for avoiding the public glare and maintaining a low profile regarding her private life.