The Ministry of Social Security and Labour of the Republic of Lithuania () is a government department of the Republic of Lithuania. Its operations are authorized by the Constitution of the Republic of Lithuania, decrees issued by the President and Prime Minister, and laws passed by the Seimas (Parliament). Its mission is to prosecute state social security and labour branch ruling functions and realize state policy in these branches. The current head of the Ministry is Inga RuginienÃÂ.
On 11 November 1918, the Republic of Lithuania established a short-lived Ministry of Public Works and Food Supply (). Its purpose was to address the dire social situation following the devastation of the World War I. It had three departments: social security, food supply and labour. However, on 29 October 1919 the ministry was merged into the Ministry of the Interior and its original departments were reorganized several times during the interwar period. The ministry and its departments were early institutions concerning the social welfare and are considered to be the predecessors of the present day Ministry of Social Security and Labour.
The Ministry plays a critical role in addressing social inequalities and supporting vulnerable groups in Lithuania. The Minister is responsible for overseeing and developing policies related to social security, labor, and welfare. The Minister ensures the effective implementation of programs aimed at providing social protection, including pensions, unemployment benefits, and support for vulnerable groups. They regulate the labor market to ensure fair working conditions, safe workplaces, and equitable employment opportunities. The Minister also represents Lithuania in international forums concerning labor and social security matters, collaborating with EU institutions and international organizations. Additionally, the Minister advises the government and the president on social and labor-related issues, contributing to the development of national policies.
The Minister of Social Security and Labour () is a member of the executive branch of the Government of Lithuania. The minister is responsible for shaping and overseeing the country's social security, labor market, and welfare policies. The Minister leads the Ministry in developing and implementing programs aimed at improving social protection, ensuring fair labor conditions, and enhancing employment opportunities. The current incumbent is Inga RunginienÃÂ who took office on 12 December 2024.