Lithuania Country Report

Lithuania is a stable democratic country located in Eastern Europe. Some diplomatic tensions exist with Russia and Belarus over border issues. However, conflict is unlikely. Demonstrations occur but are generally peaceful and do not target foreign interests. There are no known indigenous terrorist groups in Lithuania. Crime presents one of the primary threats facing foreigners in Lithuania. Petty crimes like pick-pocketing, credit card theft, ATM fraud, and vehicle break-ins represent some of the criminal activity most often reported by foreign visitors. Thieves tend to operate in malls, airports, public transportation, bars and restaurants. Assaults against foreigners are reported on occasion, but overall such incidents remain rare. Overland travel can be hazardous due to poor road conditions in rural areas and erratic local driving habits. Extremely cold temperatures and snow can impact travel during winter months. Infrastructure is relatively well-developed. Air travel to and from Lithuania is considered to be safe and efficient. The standard of medical care is generally below Western European standards due to a lack of equipment and resources.

Criminal activity, particularly muggings and petty theft, are the main threats facing travelers. Petty thieves operate on public transport and in bars and restaurants. Protests are likely to be concentrated in Vilnius and have a maximum of a few thousand participants. There is a threat of terrorism from Islamists militants in Europe, although no attacks have occurred in Lithuania. Although fear of Russian expansionism has increased, direct military intervention is unlikely.

Air travel is safe and in compliance with international safety standards.

Road conditions are generally up to Western European standards. Outside of city centers and off major throughways, the road conditions can be poor.

The ports are considered relatively efficient.

Access to utilities in the main cities is good, although service delivery may be poor in rural areas. The most up-to-date telecommunications networks are used across the country.

There are increasing concerns over the threat from cyber attacks due to the Russia-Ukraine war.

Lithuania has warm, dry summers and fairly severe winters due to heavy snowfall and extremely cold temperatures. Snow storms can create hazardous conditions and pose a threat to safety. Sporadic minor, low impact earthquakes do occur but cause no injuries or damage.

Medical care is improving but is not yet up to Western European standards. There are a small number of private clinics that offer services comparable to those in developed countries. Doctors and hospitals usually expect immediate payment for health services. Pharmacies that stock adequate medical supplies. may be limited outside major centers.

Lithuania is a unitary multi-party semi-presidential republic. The Prime Minister is the head of government, and the President is the head of state. The President, the Prime Minister, and the Council of Ministers form the government and exercise executive power. Presidential elections take place once every five years. The unicameral parliament, or the Seimas, exercises legislative power. Parliamentary elections take place once every four years. The judiciary is independent of the executive and the legislature.

Coalitions featuring a cross-section of political parties are typically required to form the government. Government collapses are rare. State institutions are competent and effective and provide reliable services across the country.