Lithuanians voted in an election on Sunday (October 13, 2024) that is likely to change the government but much will remain the same, including stronger support for Ukraine from NATO and EU members and stronger defense policy. Steps are involved.
The poll is likely to see the centre-left replace the ruling conservatives, and could see a new populist party whose leader is on trial for alleged anti-Semitic comments enter parliament for the first time.
The Baltic state of 2.8 million people is keeping a wary eye on neighboring Russia, fearing it could be the next target if Moscow succeeds in its war against Ukraine.
All of Lithuania’s main parties agree on the need for stronger support for Ukraine and to maintain or increase defense spending, which currently accounts for about three percent of GDP. Opinion polls show the Social Democratic Party, which last led the government from 2012 to 2016, is ahead of 14 other parties and coalitions, with the latest survey predicting they will win around 20% of the vote. The ruling center-right Homeland Union-Lithuanian Christian Democrats are expected to receive about 15%. Seven parties are likely to cross the electoral threshold to get seats in Parliament.
Despite a possible government reshuffle, no major changes in foreign policy are expected.
President Gitanos Nausicaä, who won a second term in May with the support of the Social Democrats, is believed to support a change in government.
published – October 14, 2024 09:34 am IST