Lithuania Country Report
Lithuania is a largely safe and stable democracy. There are diplomatic tensions between Russia and Belarus over border issues. However, it is unlikely that a conflict will arise. Demonstrations do occur, but they are usually peaceful and not aimed at foreign interests. There are no known homegrown terrorist groups in Lithuania. One of the main threats to foreigners in Lithuania is crime. Petty crimes such as pickpocketing, credit card theft, ATM fraud, and vehicle theft are among the criminal activities most frequently reported by foreign travelers. Thieves tend to operate in shopping malls, airports, public transportation, bars and restaurants. Although occasional incidents of attacks on foreign nationals were reported, overall such incidents were rare. Overland travel can be dangerous due to poor rural road conditions and erratic local driving habits. Cold temperatures and snowfall can affect winter travel. The infrastructure is relatively developed. Air travel to and from Lithuania is considered safe and efficient. Due to the lack of equipment and resources, the standard of healthcare is generally lower than in Western Europe.
Last updated: April 11, 2022
Security
Criminal activities, especially robbery and petty theft, are the main threats that travelers face. Petty criminals operate in public transport and bars and restaurants. The demonstration will be concentrated in Vilnius and several thousand people are expected to participate in it. Although there have been no attacks in Lithuania, there is a threat of terrorism from Islamic extremists in Europe. Concerns about Russian expansionism are growing, but direct military intervention is unlikely.
Last updated: April 27, 2022
Infrastructure
Air travel is safe and compliant with international safety standards.
Road conditions generally meet Western European standards. Road conditions can be bad on the outskirts of the city center or off the main highways.
Ports are considered relatively efficient.
Access to public facilities is good in big cities, but services may be inadequate in rural areas. Modern communication networks are used throughout the country.
There is growing concern about the threat of cyber attacks from the Russia-Ukraine war.
Last updated: March 8, 2023
Environment
Summers in Lithuania are hot and dry, but winters are harsh due to heavy snow and cold temperatures. A snowstorm can create dangerous conditions and threaten your safety. Small, low-impact earthquakes occur sporadically, but do not cause damage or injury.
Last updated: March 2, 2022
Health and Medical
Healthcare is improving but still not up to Western European standards. There are few private clinics that provide services comparable to developed countries. Doctors and hospitals usually expect immediate payment for medical services. Pharmacies are equipped with appropriate medical supplies. May be restricted outside major centers.
Last updated: September 14, 2022
Political
Lithuania is a semi-presidential democratic republic. After the 2020 parliamentary elections, independent candidate Ingrida Simonte was elected Prime Minister. In the October 2020 elections, the center-right Fatherland Union-Lithuanian Christian Democratic Party (TS-LKD) won the largest share of the vote and formed a coalition government with two other liberal parties. Lithuania is politically stable, although governments are often short-lived.
Last updated: March 8, 2023