Vilnius woman fined for selling Soviet symbols

Sep 04, 2008
In cooperation with BNS

VILNIUS - A woman selling Soviet-themed souvenirs in Vilnius’ Old Town has been slapped with a fine in the first ruling based on the new law.

A Vilnius court ruled that Galina Lavrenchik would have to pay the minimum fine – totaling 500 litas (145 euros) – for selling souvenirs that had Soviet symbols. It was the first conviction under the newly-adopted law, which prohibits the sale of items with Soviet or Nazi symbols.

Lavrenciuk had faced a fine of 500-1,000 litas. While she only received the minimum fine for the offense, the court also ordered police to confiscate the goods.

According to the law, which came into force in July, Nazi and Soviet symbols cannot be used or distributed at gatherings and other public events. Such symbols are only allowed in museums, educational or scientific establishments, or in art and antique trade. Veterans of World War II will not be punished for wearing their uniforms.


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