Strenghtening resistance to corruption in Lithuania: situation overview, actions, changes

Abstract

The article analyses current issues relating to the legal regulation and practical implementation of resistance to corruption in Lithuania. It is emphasised that corruption should be regarded not only as a problem of public administration or criminal law, but also as a threat to national security. Although the National Anti-Corruption Agenda 2022–2033 has been adopted in Lithuania, it does not yet sufficiently clearly disclose the links between corruption and national security. The article also discusses the role of the private sector in increasing resistance to corruption. It is noted that the involvement of the private sector is currently based largely on the principle of voluntariness; therefore, there is a lack of consistent risk-based regulation, particularly in sectors important to national security. The analysis of judicial practice demonstrates that the assessment of evidence in corruption-related cases is becoming more rigorous, convictions are being adopted more frequently, and violations relating to the use of municipal funds are being assessed as offences causing significant harm to public trust.