Lithuania

CPR582 T Michael Burns C04217397 Honor code I certify that I have taken this examination under the University of Miami Honor Code and that I have neither asked for outside help nor have I helped a classmate. My typed name represents my signed compliance with the Honor Code.

Quick facts to know:

Official name of the state the Republic of Lithuania. Capital Vilnius, population (01 01 2011) 554.1 thous.
Lithuanian Flag

State Emblem.

Since 1991, the State Emblem is a white Vytis (a mounted armoured knight with a raised sword) against a red background [1]1.

Religion
Under the Constitution, the state recognizes traditional Lutheran churches and religious organizations, as well as other churches and religious organizations if their teaching and rituals do not contradict the law. In 2001, 79% of the population was Roman Catholic. As of 2006 there were 677 Roman Catholic churches with 710 priests, and 50 Orthodox parishes with 47 priests. In 2007 the Lutheran Church had 54 parishes and 20 pastors headed by a bishop. In Feb. 2011 there was one cardinal. [2]2

1. D.C., E.o.t.R.o.L.i.W. Embassy of the Republic of Lithuania in Washington D.C. 2012 [cited 2012 27 February 2012]; Available from: http://usa.mfa.lt/index.php?-576916837. 2 2. Turner, B. LITHUANIA. Statesman's Yearbook Online 2009 [cited 2012 27 February 2012]; Available from: <http://www.statesmansyearbook.com/entry?entry=countries_dc_lt>.

Religious denominations (2011) [3]

Roman Catholics Greek Catholics Evangelical Lutherans Evangelical Reformists Orthodox Believers Old Believers Judaists Sunni Muslims Karaites

Ethnicity, race(s),
Lithuanians accounted for 835%, Poles 67%, Russians 63% (94% in 1989), Belarusians 12%, Ukrainians 07% and Jews 01%. [2]
Population by Ethnic Group ('000 permanent inhabitants at 1 January 2010, official estimates)

Number Lithuanian Polish Russian Belarusian Others Total [4]4 2,765 201 161 35 164 3,329 .6 .5 .7 .9 .3 .0

% 83 6 4 1 5 100 .1 .0 .8 .1 .0 .0

Language(s)
The official language is Lithuanian, but ethnic minorities have the right to official use of their language where they form a substantial part of the population [2]. Lithuania is among the five EU members with the highest percentage of people speaking at least one foreign language, with ninety percent of Lithuanians speaking at least one other language mostly Russian, English and Polish apart from their mother tongue [5]5.

3. DEPARTAMENTAS, L.S., STATISTICAL YEARBOOK OF LITHUANIA 2011, 2011, Lietuvos statistikos departamentas: Vilnius. 4 4. Lithuania, in Europa World Online2012, Routledge: London. 5 5. State, U.S.C.S.a.U.S.D.o., Doing Business in Lithuania, in Country Commercial Guide2011, U.S. Commercial Service and U.S. Department of State.

Literacy
Adult literacy rate (UNESCO estimates): 99.7% (males 99.7%; females 99.7%) in 2009 [4].

Currency
The unit of currency is the litas (plural litai) (LTL) of 100 cents, which was introduced on 25 June 1993 and became the sole legal tender on 1 Aug. The litas was pegged to the US dollar on 1 April 1994 at US$1 = four litai [2]. On February 1, 2002, the government pegged the litas (LTL) to the euro (EUR) at the rate of LTL 3.4528 to EUR 1. Prior to that date, the peg was LTL 4 to USD 1. The government backs the litas with gold and foreign currency reserves [5].

National holidays
Independence Day, 16 February (1918); note - 16 February 1918 was the date Lithuania declared its independence from Soviet Russia and established its statehood; 11 March 1990 was the date it declared its independence from the Soviet Union [6]6.

Public Holidays
Public holidays for 2012 are as follows: 1 January (New Years Day); 16 February (National Day); 11 March (Day of the Re-establishment of Independence); 9 April (Easter Monday); 1 May (Labour Day); 24 June (St John's Day); 6 July (Anniversary of the Coronation of Grand Duke Mindaugas); 15 August (Assumption); 1 November (All Saints Day); 2526 December (Catholic Christmas). [4]

Calendar/date format,
Local Time: Lithuania lies in the Central European Time zone (GMT + 2 hours, or same as, for instance, Helsinki, Riga, and Tallinn). [7]7 Calendar/Era First Day of the Week Separator Default Short Date Format 24 hour format Standard time format Standard time format example Gregorian Monday hyphen yyyy-mm-dd yes hh:mm:ss 23:43:12

6. C.I.A. The WORLD FACTBOOK: Europe: Lithuania. 2012 [cited 2012 27 February 2012]; Available from: https://www.cia.gov/library/publications/the-world-factbook/geos/lh.html. 7 7. State, U.S.D.o. Lithuania Country Specific Information. 2011 23 November 2011 [cited 2012 27 February 2012]; Available from: http://travel.state.gov/travel/cis_pa_tw/cis/cis_952.html.

Time separator [8]

8

colon (:)

8.

Lithuanian Style Guide2011: Microsoft Corporation.

GNP/GDP,
GDP in current prices (2008): US $47,341m. ($14,098 per head) Real GDP growth (2008): 3.0% Inflation (annual average, 2008): 10.9% [4]

Per capita income

GNI per capita (2010) (PPP$) 14,824 [2]

Unemployment rate
16.2% (2011 est.) 17.8% (2010 est.) [6] Youth unemployment rate Total: 29.4% Male: 35.2% Female: 21.7% (2009) [6]
Economically Active Population (annual averages, '000 persons)

Averages in 000 persons Unemplo yed [4]

2008 9 4 . 3

20 09 22 5 . 1

20 10 29 1 . 1

Measuring system
The measurement system used in Lithuania is Metric with degrees Celsius used for temperatures [4].

History of the country/region

When was it founded?
Independence of the Republic of Lithuania: Proclamation February 16, 1918, Restoration March 11, 1990. In 1990 Lithuania was the first Soviet republic to declare independence, although this was not recognized by the USSR State Council until 1991 [4]. The present Constitution of the Republic of Lithuania was adopted on October 25, 1992 [3].

The Lithuanian declarations were condemned by a special session of the allUnion Congress of Peoples Deputies as unconstitutional, and Soviet forces occupied CPL buildings in Vilnius. An economic embargo was imposed on Lithuania in April 1990, and vital fuel supplies were suspended; the embargo remained in force for more than two months, until Lithuania agreed to a six-month moratorium on the independence declaration, pending formal negotiations. However, the Soviet Government soon terminated talks that began in August, and in January 1991 Landsbergis revoked the suspension of the declaration of independence, since negotiations on Lithuanias status had not resumed. Tension increased in the republic when the Soviet authorities dispatched to Vilnius troops (led by the special OMON units of the Soviet Ministry of Internal Affairs), who occupied former CPSU properties that had been nationalized by the Lithuanian Government. Popular support mobilized to help to defend the parliament building, which he believed to be under threat. In mid-January 13 people were killed and about 500 injured, when Soviet troops seized the broadcasting centre in Vilnius. (In August 1999 six former officers of the LCP were convicted of complicity in attempts to overthrow the Lithuanian Government in January 1991, and sentenced to between three and 12 years imprisonment) [4]. Agreement was reached in September 1992 on the withdrawal of the estimated 38,000 former Soviet troops remaining in Lithuania, and the final troops left, as scheduled, on 31 August 1993, whereupon full state sovereignty was perceived as having been restored in Lithuania [4].

Major historical leaders

A Lithuanian Conference was convened in September 1917, which demanded the re-establishment of an independent Lithuanian state and elected a Lithuanian Council, headed by Antanas Smetona; it proceeded to declare independence on 16 February 1918 [4]. Algirdas Brazauskas, First Secretary of the CPL since October 1988, was elected Chairman of the Presidium of the Lithuanian Supreme Soviet, defeating three other candidates, including Romualdas Ozolas, a leading member of Sjdis. None the less, Sjdis remained the dominant political force in the republic, and its supporters won an overall majority in the elections to the Lithuanian Supreme Soviet in FebruaryMarch 1990 [4]. Sjdis won 36 of the 42 popularly elected Lithuanian seats at elections to the all-Union Congress of Peoples Deputies in March 1989. Thereafter, the CPL began to adopt a more radical position, in an attempt to retain some measure of popular support. On 18 May the CPL-dominated Supreme Soviet approved a declaration of Lithuanian sovereignty, which asserted the supremacy of Lithuanias laws over allUnion legislation. Public debate concerning the legitimacy of Soviet rule in Lithuania intensified: a commission of the Lithuanian Supreme Soviet declared the establishment of Soviet power in 1940 to have been unconstitutional, and, in August, on the 50th anniversary of the signing of the Pact with Nazi Germany, more than 1m. people participated in a human chain extending from Tallinn in Estonia, through Latvia, to Vilnius [6]. Michael Burns C04217397 7

In a second round on 4 January 1998, the second-placed candidate after the first round, Valdas Adamkus (a former environmental protection executive, who had been naturalized in the USA), narrowly defeated Artras Paulauskas (a prominent lawyer and deputy Prosecutor-General, supported by the Lithuanian Liberal Union), with 50.4% of the votes. In April Paulauskas announced the formation of a new, centre-left political party, the New Union (Social LiberalsNU) [4]. The nomination by President Paksas of a new Director-General of the State Security Department, in October 2003 a classified departmental report was disclosed, which claimed to provide evidence of links between the presidential adviser on national security, Remigijus Acas, and Yurii Borisov, an ethnic Russian with alleged connections with organized crime groups, who had contributed significant funds to Paksass presidential election campaign. It was revealed that in April Paksas had signed a presidential decree permitting Borisov to hold dual citizenship, despite warnings from the State Security Department that he was suspected of involvement in the illegal trading of weapons [4]. In November an emergency session of the Seimas established a special parliamentary commission to investigate Paksass alleged links with Russian organized crime and the associated threat to national security, and the ProsecutorGeneral launched a criminal investigation into Borisov. Paksas subsequently dismissed a number of his senior advisers, but refused to appear before the commission. In December the Seimas approved the commissions conclusion that the Presidents conduct had jeopardized national security, and the following day both Brazauskas and Paulauskas appealed for the Presidents resignation. On 18 December the Seimas approved a draft resolution to initiate impeachment proceedings against Paksas, and an investigative commission was subsequently established to consider the charges [4].

Any wars that they have been involved in

Prior to annexation by the Russian Empire in 1795, Lithuania was united in a Commonwealth with Poland. In 1915, after the outbreak of the First World War, it was occupied by German troops [4]. In October 1920 Poland annexed the region of Vilnius, but was forced to recognize the rest of Lithuania as an independent state (with its provisional capital at Kaunas) [6]. Soviet Russia had recognized Lithuanian independence in the Treaty of Moscow, signed in July. Lithuanias first Constitution, which declared Lithuania a parliamentary democracy, was adopted in August 1922. In December 1926 Smetona seized power in a military coup and established an authoritarian regime, which endured until 1940 [6]. According to the Secret Protocols to the Treaty of Non-Aggression (the Molotov-Ribbentrop Pact), signed on 23 August 1939 by the USSR and Germany, Lithuania was to be part of the German sphere of influence. However, the NaziSoviet Treaty on Friendship and Existing Borders, agreed in September (following the outbreak of the Second World War), permitted the USSR to take control of Lithuania [6].

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Between 1940 and 1954, under the Nazi and then Soviet occupations, Lithuania lost over 780,000 residents. In World War II, German occupiers sent Lithuanians to forced labor camps in Germany. Almost 200,000, or 91%, of Lithuanian Jews were killed, one of the worst death rates of the Holocaust. After the retreat of the Wehrmacht in 1944, Lithuania was re-occupied by the Soviet Union, and an estimated 120,000 to 300,000 Lithuanians were either killed or deported to Siberia and other remote parts of the Soviet Union. Conversely, Soviet authorities encouraged the immigration to Lithuania of other Soviet workers, especially Russians, as a way of integrating Lithuania into the U.S.S.R. [7] In October Lithuania was compelled to agree to the stationing of 20,000 Soviet troops on its territory. In return, the U.S.S.R. granted the city and region of Vilnius (which had been seized by Soviet troops in September) to Lithuania. In June 1940 the U.S.S.R. dispatched a further 100,000 troops to Lithuania and forced the Lithuanian Government to resign. A Soviet-approved Peoples Government was formed. Elections to a Peoples Seim (parliament), which only pro-Soviet candidates were permitted to contest, took place in July. The Seim proclaimed the Lithuanian Soviet Socialist Republic on 21 July, and on 3 August Lithuania formally became a Union Republic of the U.S.S.R. The establishment of Soviet rule was followed by the arrest and imprisonment of many Lithuanian politicians and government officials. [6] A significant dissident movement was established during the 1960s and 1970s. With the introduction of the policy of glasnost (openness) by the Soviet leader, Mikhail Gorbachev, in the mid-1980s, a limited discussion of previously censored aspects of Lithuanian history appeared in the press. Dissident groups took advantage of a more tolerant attitude to political protests, organizing a demonstration in August 1987 to denounce the Nazi-Soviet Pact. However, in February 1988 security forces were deployed to prevent the public celebration of the 70th anniversary of Lithuanian independence [6]. Despite denunciations of Baltic nationalism by the all-Union authorities, the Lithuanian Supreme Soviet continued to adopt reformist legislation, including the establishment of freedom of religion and the legalization of a multi-party system. In December 1989 the CPL declared itself an independent party, no longer subordinate to the CPSU, adopting a new programme and declaring support for multi-party democracy and independent statehood [6]. Shortly afterwards a group of former CPL members who were opposed to independence formed a separate movement, the Lithuanian Communist Party on the CPSU Platform (LCP) [6].

Their former/current allies

In November 1993 Lithuania and Russia signed several agreements, including an accord on most-favored nation status in bilateral trade, and another concerning the transportation, via Lithuania, of Russian military equipment and troops from the Russian exclave of Kaliningrad Oblast, on the Baltic coast. In October 1997 a state border delimitation treaty was signed by Russia and Lithuania, and bilateral cooperation agreements on joint economic zones, and on the Baltic continental shelf, were also concluded. The border treaty was ratified by the Seimas in October 1999, Michael Burns C04217397 9

but was not ratified by Russia until May 2003. Lithuania expressed support for an agreement between the EU and Russia in late 2002, which proposed simplified visa arrangements for Russian citizens traversing Lithuania to reach Kaliningrad. New transit arrangements were implemented in Lithuania in February 2003. [4] Relations between Lithuania and Belarus became warmer in 2010, and in October the two countries signed a cross-border agreement facilitating travel of residents living within 50 km of the LithuaniaBelarus border. [4] Lithuania has been a staunch U.S. ally, contributing to military operations in Afghanistan and Iraq. In Afghanistan, Lithuania has led a Provincial Reconstruction Team and has deployed Lithuanian Special Operation Forces to southern Afghanistan to operate under NATOs International Security Assistance Force (ISAF). In Iraq, Lithuania had an infantry platoon serving in Multinational Division Center near Al Kut; five trainers currently serve in the NATO Training Mission-Iraq in Baghdad. Lithuania has also participated in peacekeeping operations in Bosnia and Kosovo [7]. Similarly, Lithuania is a strong supporter of U.S. objectives in the area of democracy promotion. In 2009 Lithuania assumed the chairmanship of the Community of Democracies. Making this a high priority for its foreign policy, Lithuania has provided development assistance and advice to Ukraine, Moldova, Georgia, and other Caucasus states. Lithuania also actively supports democratization efforts in Belarus [7]. As a result of the broader global financial crisis, the Lithuanian economy in 2009 experienced its worst recession since gaining independence from the Soviet Union in 1991. After experiencing a boom in growth sparked by Lithuanias 2004 accession to the European Union, Lithuanias GDP contracted by 15% in 2009. To stabilize the economy, the government that took power in December 2008 approved a U.S. $2.3 billion stimulus plan as well as a fiscal austerity package that cut spending and raised taxes to shore up finances. Initial budget cuts were followed by several more rounds throughout 2009, and the 2010 government budget started to cut into Lithuanias social benefit programs. Lithuanias GDP grew slightly in 2010, while economic growth in 2011 is expected to be 5%-6% [7]. Lithuanias relations with neighboring Poland were largely concerned with the status of the Polish minority in Lithuania. Following the failed coup attempt of August 1991 in Moscow, leaders of councils in Polish-populated regions of Lithuania were dismissed, in response to their alleged support for the coup, and direct rule was introduced. However, in January 1992 Lithuania and Poland signed a Declaration on Friendly Relations and Neighbourly Co-operation, which guaranteed the rights of the respective minority ethnic groups and also recognized the existing border between the two countries. A full treaty of friendship and cooperation was signed by the respective Heads of State in April 1994. In September 2006 President Adamkus made an official visit to the Polish capital, Warsaw, where he signed a joint declaration with President Lech Kaczyski on a plan to connect the electricity grids of Lithuania and Poland; a joint company to manage the project was formed in May 2008 [4].

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Lithuania enjoys close relations with Estonia and Latvia. Relations between the three states are coordinated through the consultative inter-parliamentary Baltic Assembly, the Council of the Baltic Sea States and the Baltic Council. However, in the mid-1990s Lithuanias relations with Latvia came under strain, as a result of disagreement over the demarcation of the countries maritime border. In October 1995 the Lithuanian Government protested against Latvias signature of a preliminary agreement with two foreign petroleum companies to explore oilfields in the disputed waters. Tension increased following the ratification of the agreement by the Latvian parliament in October 1996, although in July 1999 the two countries signed an agreement on the Delimitation of the Territorial Sea, Exclusive Economic Zone and Continental Shelf in the Baltic Sea. However, protests from the Latvian fishing industry prevented the agreement from being ratified by the Latvian parliament. In December 2000 a protocol was signed for the re-demarcation of the land border between the two countries. In early 2008 Prime Minister Kirkilas welcomed a decision by the Latvian Government that ratification of the maritime border treaty would proceed separately to the signing of an economic co-operation agreement between the two countries [4]. Lithuania pursued close co-operation with, and eventual integration into, the political, economic and defense systems of Western Europe, notably NATO and the EU. Lithuania is a member of the European Bank for Reconstruction and Development (EBRD), the Council of the Baltic Sea States, of the Baltic Council, of the Council of Europe, and of the Organization for Security and Co-operation in Europe. In December 2002 Lithuania and nine other countries were formally invited to join the EU on 1 May 2004; at a national referendum, held on 1011 May 2003, 90.0% of participants voted in favor of membership, and Lithuania duly acceded to the EU as scheduled. In December 2007 Lithuania, together with eight other nations, implemented the EUs Schengen Agreement, enabling its citizens to travel to and from other member states without border controls. In May 2008 the Seimas approved the ratification of the EUs Lisbon Treaty, which was designed to reform the Unions institutions and entered into force in December 2009. Meanwhile, in November 2002 Lithuania was one of seven countries invited to join NATO in 2004. Lithuania became a full member of the Alliance on 29 March 2004. In April 2011 US President Barack Obama met Heads of State and Government of Central and Eastern European countries in Prague, the Czech Republic, to discuss regional and global security issues and NATO matters [4].

Diplomatic ties within the country

The United States established diplomatic relations with Lithuania on July 28, 1922. The Soviet invasion forced the closure of the Legation to Lithuania on September 5, 1940, but Lithuanian representation in the United States continued uninterrupted. The United States never recognized the forcible incorporation of Lithuania into the U.S.S.R., and in 2011, the United States and Lithuania celebrated the 20th anniversary of the re-establishment of Baltic independence. Lithuania has enjoyed most-favored-nation treatment with the United States since December 1991. Since 1992, the United States has committed more than $100 million in Lithuania to economic and political transformation and to humanitarian needs. The Michael Burns C04217397 11

United States and Lithuania signed an agreement on bilateral trade and intellectual property protection in 1994 and a bilateral investment treaty in 1997. In 1998, the United States signed a "Charter of Partnership" with Lithuania and the other Baltic countries establishing bilateral working groups focused on improving regional security, defense, and economic issues. In November 2008 Lithuania joined the Visa Waiver Program, which allows Lithuanians short-term travel to the United States visa-free [7]. Principal U.S. Officials Ambassador--Anne Elizabeth Derse Deputy Chief of Mission--Anne Hall Political and Economic Section Chief--John Finkbeiner Press and Cultural Attache--Jonathan Berger Defense Attache--LTC Jeffrey L Jennette (USA) Defense Cooperation Officer--LTC Cynthia A. Matuskevich (USA) Management Officer--Alboino Deulus Consular Officer--Anthony T. Beaver [7]

Demographics/ Geography, Climate /Infrastructure/ Health & Safety

How much technology is available?
TV, Radio, Internet, Computers, Cell phones, etc. Digital television channels are available on terrestrial, MMDS, cable, broadband internet, mobile communications networks, and via satellite. On 1 September 2010, digital terrestrial television stations operated in 29 cities and 85 percent of the population had access to 12 national free-to-air (FTA) digital terrestrial television (DTT) channels [9]9. Information Communication Technologies (ICT) Based on the household survey data, in 2011, 56 per cent of households had personal computers and access to the Internet at home (in 2010, 54 per cent). In urban areas, 64 per cent of households had computers and Internet access at home, in rural areas 41 per cent (in 2010, 61 and 39 per cent). Most households with Internet access at home (93 per cent) used broadband connection. In urban areas, households using broadband Internet connection accounted for 95 per cent of households with the Internet, in rural areas 86 per cent [3].

9. Parsonis, A.R.a.L.U.a.D., Mapping Digital Media: Lithuania, M.D.a.M. Thompson, Editor 2011, Open Society Media Program: London, United Kingdom. Michael Burns C04217397 12

There are three major mobile service providers in the country: Omnitel, Bit GSM and Tele2. Excellent connections are ensured not only in Lithuania but also throughout many other countries [1]. In 2011, 64 per cent of persons aged 1674 were using computers. A considerable part of computer users were young people. In 2011, out of the total number of persons aged 6574, 12 per cent were using computers, while 85 per cent have never used them at all. Most persons using computers in 2011 (75 per cent) were using them daily, one fifth (21 per cent) at least once a week but not daily. In 2011, out of persons aged 1674, 64 per cent were using the Internet (in 2010, 60 per cent), out of persons aged 1624 96 per cent, while out of those aged 6574 11 per cent. Among employed population, Internet users accounted for 77 per cent. Most Internet users (75 per cent) were using it daily. Every fifth (21 per cent) person using the Internet was using it at least once a week but not daily. Thus, persons regularly (at least once a week) using the Internet accounted for 96 per cent of Internet users, or 61 per cent of all persons aged 1674 [3]. Uses of ICT Mostly, the Internet was used to read news, newspapers and magazines, communication, search for information. 89 per cent of Internet users read or downloaded news, newspapers and magazines, 86 per cent searched for information on goods and services, 81 per cent used email, 69 per cent made online phone calls or participated in chats, discussion forums, wrote weblogs, engaged in instant messaging [3]. In 2011, Internet banking services were used by 65 per cent of Internet users aged 1674, i.e. by 41 per cent of the total population of the said age group (in 2010, 61 and 37 per cent) [3]. In 2011, 44 per cent of Internet users aged 1674, or 28 per cent of the total population of the said age group (in 2010, 36 and 22 per cent), used the Internet to communicate with state and municipal authorities and made use of public eservices. A third of persons aged 1674 (30 per cent) used e-services of state and municipal authorities or other public service institutions at least once a year [3]. In I quarter 2011, 11 per cent of persons aged 1674 (in I quarter 2010, 7 per cent), or 16 per cent of all Internet users, bought or ordered goods or services for private purposes use online. Over the last 12 months, almost every fourth Internet user (24 per cent) bought or ordered goods or services via the Internet. Most often, e-commerce was used for buying tickets to cultural events (38 per cent of ecommerce users purchased their tickets online); clothes, footwear, sports goods were purchased by 37 per cent of users, telecommunications services 23 per cent, package holidays 17 per cent, holiday accommodation services 12 per cent [3]. ICT and Business At the beginning of 2011, based on the data of the statistical survey on the use of ICT in enterprises conducted by Statistics Lithuania, 98.1 per cent of manufacturing and service enterprises with the staff of 10 and more employees Michael Burns C04217397 13

used computers, 94.9 per cent broadband Internet. To connect to the Internet, 51.7 per cent of such enterprises used digital subscriber lines (DSL), 29.6 per cent fibre-optic lines, 30.3 per cent other fixed connections (leased line, cable, etc.). Mobile Internet access was used by 54.5 per cent of enterprises, most of which (49.1 per cent) were using mobile broadband connection [3]. 63.7 per cent of manufacturing and service enterprises had local area networks (LAN). In everyday work, computers were used at least once a week by 38.8 per cent, the Internet by 36.5 per cent of the employees of such enterprises (at the beginning of 2010, 32.8 and 29.7 per cent respectively). 67.7 per cent of manufacturing and service enterprises had a website or home page (in 2010, 65.2 per cent). 36.6 per cent of enterprises indicated that their websites presented catalogues and pricelists of their products or services, 20.8 per cent of enterprises offered an opportunity to order, reserve or purchase products via the Internet, 18.7 per cent to choose a preferable shape or design of a product [3]. In 2010, almost all (98.1 per cent) manufacturing and service enterprises used the Internet for communication with public authorities (in 2009, 95 per cent); 92.3 per cent of enterprises searched for information on the websites of public authorities, 97.8 per cent downloaded various forms, 92.6 per cent returned filled-in forms via the Internet. 95.6 per cent of enterprises made use of an opportunity to perform administrative procedures online (without additional paperwork), offered by public authorities: 94.4 per cent declared social insurance contributions, 91.8 per cent filled in profit tax, 92.3 per cent value added returns. 27.2 per cent of enterprises used the Internet to get public procurement documents and specifications of public authorities (of Lithuania and the EU countries), 23 per cent provided offers in an electronic tendering system (public procurement monitoring information system) [3]. In 2010, 39.3 per cent of enterprises used computers and electronic networks for trading purposes (to purchase or sell goods or services): 33.2 per cent of enterprises purchased (ordered) goods or services via the Internet or other computer networks, 24.7 per cent received orders [3]. Enterprise resource planning (ERP) systems were used by 12.6 per cent, customer relationship management (CRM) systems 16.8 per cent of enterprises (in 2010, 11.5 and 15.3 respectively) [3]. Electronic security tools were used by almost all (90.9 per cent) enterprises with Internet access. In 2010, 16.2 per cent of enterprises faced electronic security problems (in 2009, 22.8 per cent; in 2008, 39.6 per cent). For most of the enterprises, the crucial problem was the inaccessibility of ICT services, destruction or corruption of data due to software (hardware) failures. Digital identification (authentication) tools were used by 72.4 per cent of enterprises (in 2010, 68.9 per cent) [3]. ICT in Healthcare At the beginning of 2011 almost, all health care and social work institutions (99.6 per cent) having 10 and more employees used computers and the Internet in

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their everyday activity. Over two years, the share of institutions having websites or web pages markedly increased: more than half (56.8 per cent) of health care and social work institutions had websites (in 2009, 38.3 per cent). On their websites, 51.6 per cent of institutions provided information on the services rendered, reception hours, and prices (in 2009, 33.2 per cent), 12.5 per cent offered an opportunity to register for an appointment (in 2009, 8 per cent), 5.5 per cent provided their patient access to electronic documents or records related to ones health. 22.9 per cent of institutions provided medical advice via the Internet (by answering to questions asked on the website) (in 2009, 8.7 per cent) [3]. The number of computers in health care and social work institutions changed only slightly. At the beginning of 2011, there were 21.1 PCs per 100 employees (19.8 PCs with Internet access); 38.4 per cent of staff of health care and social work institutions used PCs in their work at least once a week, the Internet 35.6 per cent (in 2009, 31.4 and 29 per cent respectively). 63.3 per cent of institutions had local area networks (LAN) (in 2009, 51.9 per cent) [3]. Computers were mostly used for administrative purposes (management of administrative data (85.3 per cent of all institutions), public health monitoring, preparation of statistical reports of the State Patients Fund under the Ministry of Health (64.9 per cent), operational support functions (34.8 per cent). 35.3 per cent of institutions used document management (preparation, registration and storage), 12.7 per cent enterprise resource planning (ERP) systems [3]. Almost all institutions (97.2 per cent) with Internet access used e-banking services, 63.4 per cent ordered goods or services via the Internet, 51.2 per cent used the Internet for educational purposes, 58.3 per cent to contact the State Patients Fund, 72.9 per cent for data exchange with other institutions [3]. 98 per cent of health care and social work institutions used the Internet for communication with public administration institutions. 82.3 per cent of institutions searched for information on the websites of public authorities, 98 per cent downloaded various forms, 91.4 per cent returned filled-in forms, 56.8 per cent submitted proposals in a public electronic tendering system (e-procurement). 92.5 per cent of institutions indicated that they carried out at least part of administrative procedures electronically, i.e. without additional paperwork. 95.9 per cent of institutions used electronic security tools; however, in 2010, 15.6 per cent of institutions encountered electronic security related problems (in 2008, 38.3 per cent) [3]. ICT in Education At the beginning of the 20102011 academic year, there were 64 thousand computers in general schools, of which about 73 per cent were used for educational purposes. The major share of computers (88 per cent) had Internet access. More than 84 per cent of all general schools had broadband Internet access. In 2010 2011, the level of computer literacy of 78 per cent of the teaching staff corresponded to a computer literacy standard [3]. In 2010, 92 per cent of local public libraries had computerised workplaces, of which more than 88 per cent with Internet access [3]. Michael Burns C04217397 15

Transportation infrastructure
The transportation infrastructure inherited from the Soviet period is adequate and has been generally well maintained since independence. Lithuania has one icefree seaport with ferry services to German, Swedish, and Danish ports. There are operating commercial airports with scheduled international services at Vilnius, Kaunas, and Klaipeda, though air connections contracted in 2009 with the bankruptcy of national carrier FlyLAL. The road system is good [7]. Is there public transportation? Cities, towns and smaller settlements are connected by interurban bus service routes [1]. Are cars common?
Road Traffic (motor vehicles in use at 31 December)

Passenger cars Buses and coaches Lorries and vans Motorcycles and mopeds [4]

2007 1,587,903 13,997 126,507 35,270

2008 1,671,065 13,824 128,733 45,617

2009 1,695,286 13,360 126,519 51,372

How do people get around? (railroads, boats, roads, plane) There are direct flights from Western Europe cities to Lithuania. Within Lithuania, travel by car is generally the fastest and most convenient mode of transportation [5]. The country has 4 modern international airports [10]10. The northernmost and only ice-free seaport on the eastern shore of the Baltic Sea is located in the western part of Lithuania.Klaipda State Seaport is a regional transport hub connecting sea, land and railway routes from East to West. Compared to neighbouring Eastern Baltic seaports, the port of Klaipda has the widest shipping line network with other seaports [10]. Railway transport in Lithuania provides efficient long-distance passenger and cargo services. Direct rail routes link Lithuania with Russia, Belarus, Latvia, Poland, and Germany. Also, the country is an integral part of the continental TRASECA railway network enabling easy transportation of cargo from Lithuania to Asian countries, including China [10].
Railways (traffic)

Passenger journeys ('000) Passenger-km (million)

10

2008 5,063 397

.1 .5

2009 4,374 356

.1 .9

2010 4,363 373

.0 .1

10. Website, L.R.V.T.O. The Official Gateway of Lithuania. 2012 [cited 2012 27 February 2012]. Michael Burns C04217397 16

Freight transported ('000 metric tons) Freight ton-km (million)

Inland Waterways

54,970 .2 14,748 2008 2,371 3 988 13 2009 2,014 3 908 4

42,668 11,888

.6

48,060 13,431

.7

Passenger journeys ('000) Passenger-km (million) Freight transported ('000 metric tons) Freight ton-km (million)

.6 .5

.9 .5

2010 1,870 4 996 4

.8 .3

Civil Aviation (traffic on scheduled services)

Passengers carried ('000) Passenger-km (million) Freight transported (000 metric tons) Freight ton-km (million) [4]

2008 1,161 2,424 4 4

.1 .2 .5

2009 715 1,528 3 1

.2 .7 .9

2010 828 1,967 2 2

.2 .9 .6

Census of population
At the beginning of 2011, the estimated population of Lithuania totaled 3244.6 thousand persons, which is by 84.4 thousand less than at the beginning of 2010. The decrease in the population in 2010 was caused by negative net migration and natural decrease. Net migration was the predominant cause and accounted for 92.3 per cent of the population decline. In the last ten years (20012010), population declined by 242.4 thousand (7 per cent). During this period, the number of emigrants exceeded that of immigrants by 140.5 thousand, the number of deaths exceeded that of births by 101.9 thousand [3]. At the beginning of 2011, 2171.2 thousand (66.9 per cent) persons were living in urban areas, 1073.4 thousand (33.1 per cent) in the rural ones. During 2001 2010, the shares of urban and rural population remained almost unchanged. Over the last ten years, the urban population declined by 7 per cent, the rural one by 6.9 per cent [3]. At the beginning of 2011, the number of women exceeded that of men by 230 thousand: 1737.3 thousand (53.5 per cent) and 1507.3 thousand (46.5 per cent) respectively. Over the recent ten years, the ratio of men to women has been changing: at the beginning of 2001, there were 1138 women per 1000 men, at the beginning of 2011 1153 [3]. At the beginning of 2011, the number of children under 15 was 1.4 times lower than that of persons aged 60 and older, while at the beginning of 2001 by 2.7 per cent higher [3]. At the beginning of 2011, there were 701.2 thousand, or 21.6 per cent, persons aged 60 and older, while at the beginning of 2001 668.6 thousand, or 19.2 per

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cent, i.e. the share of persons aged 60 and older, compared to the total population, has been on the increase [3]. At the beginning of 2011, 856.6 thousand persons aged 15 and older (31.1 per cent, i.e. every third person) were single (never married), 1328.3 thousand (48.2 per cent) married, 324.3 thousand (11.7 per cent) divorced, 247.5 thousand (9 per cent) widowed. The number of divorced women was 1.6 times, widowed 6.6 times higher than that of men [3]. Nationality In 20012010, citizens of the Republic of Lithuania accounted for about 99 per cent of the countrys population. The majority of the countrys residents (3036.7 thousand, or 93.6 per cent) were born in Lithuania, 207.9 thousand (6.4 per cent) abroad [3].
Population by Citizenship (2011)

Citizenship Lithuania Russian Federation Belarus Ukraine Poland Germany Latvia Other countries Stateless Not indicated [3] Race, ethnicity
Population by Ethnicity 2011

Population, thousands 3211.0 11.2 2.3 1.3 0.4 0.3 0.3 2.2 3.5 12.1

Percentage of Total Population 99.0 0.3 0.1 0.0 0.0 0.0 0.0 0.1 0.1 0.4

Ethnicity Lithuanians Russians Poles Belarusians

Population, thousands 2721.5 174.9 212.8 41.4

Percentage of Total Population 83.9 5.4 6.6 1.3

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Ukranians Jews Latvians Tartars Germans Romanies Other Not Indicated [3]

21.1 3.4 2.4 3.1 3.0 2.9 8.0 50.4

0.6 0.1 0.1 0.1 0.1 0.1 0.2 1.5

Type of labor/industries (agriculture, business, etc.)

Employed Persons by Activity

Activity Agriculture, forestry, and fishing Mining and quarrying Manufacturing Electricity, gas, steam, and air conditioning supply Water supply; sewerage, waste management and remediation activities Construction Wholesale and retail trade; repair of motor vehicles and motorcyles Transportation and storage Accommodation and food service activities Information and communication Financial and insurance activities Real estate activities Professional, scientific, and technical activities Administrative and support service activities Public administration and defence;

Number of People in thousands 121.4 3.3 208.2 15.2 11.1

93.3 243.0 90.8 33.6 23.9 22.3 13.6 49.0 42.4 82.2

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compulsory social security Education Human health and social work activities Arts, entertainment, and recreation Other service activities Activities of households as employers; undifferentiated goods and services producing activities of households for own use Activities of extraterritorial organizations and bodies [3]
Employed Persons by Occupational Group

147.8 92.3 21.4 26.9 1.6

(0.1)

Occupational Group Legislators, senior officials, and managers Professionals Technicians and associate professionals Clerks Service workers and shop and market sales workers Skilled agricultural and fishery workers Craft and related trades workers Plant and machine operators and assemblers Elementary occupations Armed forces [3]

Number of People in thousands 137.1 258.4 175.2 61.8 175.4 88.1 189.4 141.0 112.1 5.1

Level of literacy Adult literacy rate (UNESCO estimates): 99.7% (males 99.7%; females 99.7%) in 2009 [4]

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In 2010, there were 1328 libraries subordinate to the Ministry of Culture and 739 thousand registered library users, or each fifth resident of the country. The number of library users, compared to 2009, increased by 13 thousand. There were, on average, 550 users per library; over the year, one user would visit a library, on average, 15 times. In 2010, library stocks comprised 26.8 million copies of documents; 92 per cent of public municipal libraries had computerized workplaces (in 2009, 81 per cent), of which 97 per cent with Internet access [3]. Level of education In accordance with the Law on Education of the Republic of Lithuania, the attendance of general or other types of schools is compulsory for children aged from 7 to 16. The educational attainment of the population is defined based on the classification of education, approved by Order No V-988 of 23 June 2010 of the Minister of Education and Science of the Republic of Lithuania [3]. In 2010, 28 per cent of residents of Lithuania aged 2564 had higher education (in 2009, 25 per cent). In the 20102011 academic year, the number of students totaled 652 thousand, or each fifth resident of Lithuania. At the end of 2010, there were 626 preschool establishments operating in the country, of which 499 in urban, 127 in rural areas. 188 general schools had preschool education groups integrated. At the end of 2010, kindergartens and preschool education groups in general schools were attended by 94.7 thousand, or 54 per cent of, children aged 16. In 2010, there were 48 places in preschool establishments per 100 children aged 16 (in 2009, 49), and 97 places per 100 children attending these institutions (in 2009, 98) [3]. In the 20102011 academic year, there were 78 vocational education institutions with 49.5 thousand students in them. Compared to the previous academic year, the number of students in vocational schools grew by 1.6 thousand, or 3 per cent. There were 3 non-public vocational schools, attended by 83 students [3]. Professionals with the highest qualification were prepared by 45 higher education institutions 22 universities and 23 colleges (of which 8 universities and 10 colleges private). At the beginning of the 20102011 academic year, there were 187 thousand students in those schools, of whom 134 thousand in universities, 53 thousand in colleges. In 2010, compared to 2009, the number of students in schools of higher education decreased by 14 thousand, or 7 per cent. In 2010, in colleges, a professional bachelors degree was obtained by 12.7 thousand graduates; in universities, 21.1 thousand graduates obtained a bachelors, 9.8 thousand masters, 374 PhD degrees [3]. More than 90 % aged 25 to 64 have secondary or higher education (ranking 2nd in the EU, EU-27 average being around 70 %) 30 % hold higher education degrees, compared to the EU average of 24 % 40 % of the 25 - 34 year olds have higher education, which is almost twice as high as the EU-15 average Almost 92 % of Lithuanian women aged 25 to 64 have secondary or higher education, which is the highest figure in the whole EU. [10] C04217397 21

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Educational Institutions by Type (Figures are 2010/11, unless otherwise indicated)

Institution Type General schools Vocational schools Professional college Colleges Universities
*

Institutions 1,321 78 1* 23 22

Teachers 38,104 3,962 120 3,796 9,746

Students 415,873 49,489 16* 53,297 133,564

2006/07 2005/06 [3]

Financial (how wealthy are the people?), Wealth distribution, Class structure There is not a highly defined caste system in Lithuania. Society is primarily middle class, and there is a large income gap between the wealthy and the very poor. Low salaries, high unemployment rates, and a poor social security system make it difficult for pensioners to meet their basic needs. Owning a private home or new car is a symbol of wealth, but there is not a traditional system of social stratification in Lithuania [9]. Religion (s) Religion is predominantly, Roman Catholic (approximately 80% of the total population). Other confessions include Orthodox, Old Believers, Lutheran, Reformat, Judaist, Sunni, Karaite and other communities [1]. Methods of transportation There are direct flights from Western Europe cities to Lithuania. Within Lithuania, travel by car is generally the fastest and most convenient mode of transportation [5]. Death rate/causes of death In 2010, 42.1 thousand deaths were registered. The number of deaths per 1000 population equaled 12.8. The highest crude death rate was registered in 2007 13.5 deaths per 1000 population. In the next two years, the mortality rate was on the decrease (in 2008, 13.1; in 2009, 12.6) [3]. In 2010, age-adjusted death rates for men were more than twice higher than those for women, for the rural population 1.3 times higher than those for the urban one [3].

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In 2010, 153 infant deaths were recorded, which is by 28 infant deaths less than in 2009. Over the last 10 years, the number of infant deaths per 1000 live births dropped almost twice (from 8.3 deaths in 2000 to 4.3 deaths in 2010) [3]. In 2010, the number of deaths due to diseases of the circulatory system totaled 23.6 thousand (56.1 per cent of all deaths), malignant neoplasms 8.1 thousand (19.3 per cent), external causes of death 4 thousand (9.6 per cent) [3]. In 2010, the number of deaths due to suicide totaled 1018, exposure to excessive natural cold 389, transport accidents 372, accidental poisoning by and exposure to alcohol 310, drowning 319, homicide 172 [3]. In 2010, life expectancy at birth for men was 68 years, for women 78.8 years (in 2000, 66.7 and 77.4 years respectively). A considerable difference in life expectancy at birth for men and women 10.8 years still remains [3].
Mortality Rate by Cause of Death

Cause of Death Certain infectious and parasitic diseases Malignant neoplasms Diseases of the circulatory system Diseases of the respiratory system Diseases of the digestive system External causes of death Transport accidents Accidental poisoning by alcohol Accidental drowning and submersion Intentional self-harm (suicides) Homicides, assault [3]

Rate is deaths per 100,000 population 14.6 246.7 718.8 38.9 67.5 123.1 11.3 9.4 9.7 31.0 5.2

Emigration and Immigration Over the last ten years, 204.7 thousand residents emigrated, 64.2 thousand immigrated. Most of them 83.2 thousand emigrated in 2010, which is almost 4 times more than in 2009. An increase in the number of emigrants was influenced and an obligation set by the Law on Health Insurance of the Republic of Lithuania for permanent residents of the country to pay compulsory health insurance contributions. Persons who had been living abroad before the enactment of the said

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law were also able to declare the change of their permanent place of residence from Lithuania to a foreign country [3]. In 2010, every second emigrant moved to the United Kingdom, 15.7 Ireland, 5.9 per cent Norway, 4.6 per cent Germany, 4.3 per cent Spain, 3.3 per cent the USA [3]. In 2010, 5.2 thousand persons immigrated to Lithuania, i.e. by 1.3 thousand less than in 2009. Most of them 4.1 thousand, or 79.7 per cent (in 2001, 714, or 15.2 per cent) were reemigrating citizens of the Republic of Lithuania. In 2010, the greatest share of persons arriving in Lithuania were from the United Kingdom (1439), Ireland (607), Russian Federation (407), and the USA (315) [3]. Health and Safety Location of home embassy The U.S. Embassy Vilnius is located at Akmenu Gatve 6, Vilnius, Lithuania LT03106. Please visit the Embassy website or call (370) (5) 266-5500, or Fax (370) (5) 266-5590 for more information. E-mail: ConSec@state.gov [7] Health issues Individuals with disabilities may find accessibility and accommodation very different from what is found in the United States. Lithuanias Law on Equal Treatment prohibits discrimination against persons with disabilities, although it does not specify what kind of disabilities. It mandates access to buildings for persons with disabilities; however, according to 2010 data from the Department of Statistics, only 40.1 percent of housing was accessible [7]. Vaccinations To have the most benefit, see a health-care provider at least 46 weeks before your trip to allow time for your vaccines to take effect. Even if you have less than 4 weeks before you leave, you should still see a health-care provider for needed vaccines and other medications and information about how to protect yourself from illness and injury while traveling. CDC recommends that you see a health-care provider who specializes in Travel Medicine [11]11. More than 26,000 cases of measles have been reported from 40 countries across Europe, including outbreaks in France, Spain, Serbia, Romania, Macedonia, and Turkey, among others. More than 23,400 cases and 8 deaths have been reported from countries in the European Economic Area (as of October 26, 2011). Travelers are strongly advised to get vaccinated if they have not been already [11].

11

11. CDC. Health Information for Travelers to Lithuania. 2012 [cited 2012 27 February 2012]; Available from: http://wwwnc.cdc.gov/travel/destinations/lithuania.htm. Michael Burns C04217397 24

Major diseases Tick-borne encephalitis and Lyme disease are widespread throughout the country. Those intending to visit parks or forested areas in Lithuania are urged to speak with their health care practitioners about immunization. Rabies is also increasingly prevalent in rural areas. Tuberculosis is an increasingly serious health concern in Lithuania. The Lithuanian Government does not require HIV testing for U.S. citizens; however, sexually transmitted diseases are a growing public health problem [7]. Crime rates: What areas are higher? What kind of crime is higher? From time to time, especially late at night near bars and night clubs, foreigners have been subject to violent crimes, such as muggings, or have become involved in altercations with inebriated individuals. Racially motivated verbal, and sometimes physical harassment of foreigners and ethnic minorities in major cities have occurred. In addition, homosexuals have experienced verbal, and sometimes physical harassment [7]. Although Lithuania is relatively safe, both violent and non-violent crimes affecting tourists have occurred throughout the country. You should maintain the same awareness and practice good personal security that you would in any U.S. metropolitan area. Large amounts of cash and expensive jewelry should be secured in a hotel safe or left at home. Common crimes against foreigners include pickpocketing and thefts, so personal belongings should be well protected at all times. Thefts from cars and car thefts occur regularly. Valuables should not be left in plain sight in parked vehicles, as there have been increasing reports of car windows being smashed and items stolen. You should avoid walking alone at night or utilize a taxi service arranged by telephone. Isolated ATMs should be avoided after dark. Like in the U.S., public inebriation should be avoided as criminals have been known to take advantage of drunken pedestrians. U.S. citizens have reported being robbed and/or scammed while intoxicated [7]. If you break Lithuanian laws, even unknowingly, you may be expelled, arrested, or imprisoned. Penalties for possession, use, or trafficking in illegal drugs in Lithuania are severe, and convicted offenders can expect long jail sentences and heavy fines.
Crime rate by municipality

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[3]

Geography
Area Total (land) area of the Republic of Lithuania 65,3 Thous. km2 [3] Lithuania is a Northeastern European country which combines what is regarded as Scandinavian - progressive, orderly, clean, natural and attractive, as well as what is regarded as Eastern European new, rapidly developing, on the rise, and as yet undiscovered. Sometimes called a Northern, and sometimes an Eastern European country, Lithuania is an authentic combination of Northern and Eastern features. Its location makes it the European Unions prime transport center. The European Union has recognized Lithuania as the prime transport center in the region linking the EU with the East [10]. Lithuania is located on the very crossroads of 3 huge markets. Its a springboard to the EU markets, and Eastern markets (Russia and the CIS countries) are also just at Lithuanias side [10]. The European Commission has evaluated Lithuania as EUs prime transport center because 2 strategic international transport routes and their branches run through Lithuania, the North-South highway and the rail route connecting Scandinavia with Central Europe as well as the East-West route linking the huge Eastern markets with the rest of Europe, as being among the ten most important in Europe [10].

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[4] Terrain Terrain: lowland, many scattered small lakes, fertile soil [6] Elevation extremes: Lowest point: Baltic Sea 0 m Highest point: Aukstojas 294 m [6] Land use: Arable land: 44.81% Permanent crops: 0.9% Other: 54.29% (2005) Water sources (rivers, oceans) Total renewable water resources: 24.5 cu km (2005) [6] Freshwater withdrawal (domestic/industrial/agricultural): Total: 3.33 cu km/yr (78%/15%/7%) Per capita: 971 cu m/yr (2003) [6] Major rivers

[3] Major Lakes

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[3] Are people isolated from each other except in larger cities? Unlike in other Baltic countries, the population in Lithuania is spread quite evenly, and the differences in population density are minor. Balanced regional politics have created a harmonious network between the largest cities Vilnius, Kaunas, Klaipda, iauliai, and Panevys [10]. Capital Vilnius. The city was officially established in 1323. But a fortified castle at the confluence of the Neris and Vilnia rivers was set up earlier. The Old Town of Vilnius is one of the largest (360 ha) and prettiest in the Eastern and Central Europe included on the UNESCO World Heritage List. The city boasts excellent public transport with trolleybus, bus and minibus routes; plenty of taxis available [1]. Vilnius has always been a multinational, multilingual, and multicultural European city. Trying to position itself as an informal political leader of the Baltic countries, Lithuania shares its own experiences in democratic developments with other countries of post-soviet block and takes active participation in the EU renewal processes. In April 2005, Vilniushosted the meeting of 26 NATO foreign ministers [10]. Neighboring countries
Length of the state border

Land 1644 km including Curonian (Kuri) Lagoon 273 km with the Russian Federation (Kaliningrad Region) 18 km including Curonian (Kuri) Lagoon 679 km with the Republic of Belarus 588 km with the Republic of Latvia 104 km with the Republic of Poland Coastline 90 km Length of the Baltic Sea shore 22 km Length of the LithuanianLatvian territorial sea limit 22 km Length of the LithuanianRussian territorial sea limit 75 km Length of the Lithuanian territorial sea outer limit

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[3] Divisions (whereby different cultures live in different parts of the country) Based on cultural and dialect differences, Lithuania is divided into five ethnic regions: Auktaitija(north-eastern and eastern Lithuania), Dzkija (south-eastern and southern Lithuania), Suvalkija (southern and south-western Lithuania south of the Nemunas River), emaitija (north-western and western Lithuania), Lithuania Minor (south-western and western edge of Lithuania) [1]. Time zone Weight and measure standards Local Time: Lithuania lies in the Central European Time zone (GMT + 2 hours, or same as, for instance, Helsinki, Riga, and Tallinn) [7].
How dates are written

24 hour format Standard time format Default Short Date Format Example Default Long Date Format Example [8] Day Monday Tuesday Wednesday Thursday Friday Saturday Sunday

yes hh:mm:ss yyyy-mm-dd 2011-03-17 yyyy m. mm d d. 2011 m. kovo 17 d.

Normal Form pirmadienis antradienis treiadienis ketvirtadienis penktadienis etadienis sekmadienis

Abbreviation Pr A T K Pn S

Month January February

Full Form sausis vasaris

Abbreviated Form sau vas

Long Date Form sausio mn. vasario mn.

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March April May June July August September October November December [8]

kovas balandis gegu birelis liepa rugpjtis rugsjis spalis lapkritis gruodis

kov bal geg bir lie rgp rgs spl lap grd

kovo mn. balandio mn. gegus mn. birelio mn. liepos mn. rugpjio mn. rugsjo mn. spalio mn. lapkriio mn. gruodio mn.

The metric system is the most common and standard system of measurement used in Lithuania. Temperature: Celsius

Category Linear Measure

English Kilometer Meter Decimeter Centimete r Millimeter

Translati on kilometr as metras decimetr as centimet ras milimetr as hektolitr as litras

Abbreviation km m dm cm mm hl l

Capacity

Hectoliter Liter

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Deciliter Centiliter Milliliter Mass Ton Kilogram Pound Gram Decigram Centigram Milligram English Units of Measurement Inch Feet Mile Gallon [8]

decilitras centilitra s mililitras tona kilogram as svaras gramas decigra mas centigra mas miligram as colis pda mylia galonas

dl cl ml t kg sv g dg cg mg in ft mi gal

Weather / seasons Climate: transitional, between maritime and continental; wet, moderate winters and summers [6].

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[3]

What are the standards of living in the country? How good is the infrastructure?
Lithuania is ranked as having one of the highest qualities of life among more than 190 countries around the globe. In the International Living 2010 Quality of Life Index, Lithuania is ranked 22nd in the world by criteria which consist of nine categories: cost of living, culture and leisure, economy, environment, freedom, health, infrastructure, safety, risk, and climate [10].

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Are they secure enough in basic needs such as food, clothing, housing, medical attention, and personal safety to even be concerned about political matters?
Even though, due to an increase in personal income, residents were able to meet their basic needs better, a large part of residents were affected by material deprivation [3]. In 2009, 53 per cent of persons were living in the households that were not able to face unexpected financial expenses (LTL 570), 20 per cent in the households which could not afford a meal with meat or fish (or their vegetarian equivalent) every second day. 37 per cent of persons were living in the households that could no afford to go for a weeks annual holiday away from home. More than one-third (35 per cent) of residents did not face any of the five economic problems while 2 per cent indicated all of them. Incomplete families (one adult with dependent children) managed the most poorly; in such households, as much as 6 per cent of persons were facing all the problems studied [3].

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Organization of information / Systems of Communication/ Media

What are the primary information delivery systems? (Profit or nonprofit)
In 2010, compared to 2002, the number of post offices, especially in rural areas, decreased by almost a quarter. Meanwhile, the number of mobile post offices grew almost 5 times. In 2010, compared to 2002, the number of domestic letter-post items decreased by 3.5, those received from abroad increased by 41.4 per cent, while the number of letter-post items sent abroad dropped by 44.2 per cent [3]. The proportions of mobile and fixed telephone subscribers remained almost unchanged. There were about 7 mobile phone subscribers per fixed telephone line. In 2010, compared to 2000, the number of active public mobile phone subscribers increased 9.6 times, while against 2009 decreased by 1.4 per cent. In 2010, there were 1.5 active public mobile phone subscribers per capita. Individuals have been further actively communicating through the Short Message (SMS) and Multimedia Messaging (MMS) services. Nevertheless, in 2010, compared to 2009, the number of SMSs sent dropped by 8.6, that of MMSs sent increased by 9.0 per cent. In 2010, public fixed telephone services were used by almost each fourth resident of Lithuania. The number of such telephone lines has been annually decreasing. In 2010, compared to 2009, it decreased by 1.8, compared to 2000 by 37.8 per cent [3]. Since 2001, the number of Digital Subscriber Line (xDSL) subscribers has been rapidly increasing; however, in 2010, compared to 2008, it dropped by 15.1 per cent. In 2010, compared to 2009, the number of Integrated Services Digital Network (ISDN) lines decreased by 5.9 per cent [3].

What are the sources of information?

Television, radio, and daily newspapers were for a long time the primary and indeed only sources of information in Lithuania. This situation started to change at the end of the last century, when the rst internet news portals were launched [9]. With the rapid growth of internet penetration, websites dedicated to news appeared and traditional media went online. The near-doubling of internet subscriptions from 34.3 percent of the population in 2005 to 60.5 percent in 2010 was accompanied by dynamic growth in ownership of PCs, laptops, mobile phones and then smart phones. The internet took on an increasing role as a news source for the public, especially younger audiences. Online news outlets have steadily grown their audiences and gradually introduced interactivity, video and other new features [9]. Most legacy media news organizations have websites; the last of the national dailies to do so was Respublikain 2008. News websitesstand-alone as well as extensions of traditional outletshave grown in popularity; in late 2010, six of the ten most popular websites as well as the top three were news sites. But, this did

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little to dent the popularity of traditional prime-time newscasts on the main television channels that held on to or increased their ratings [9]. Television remains the most popular media platform, although the reach of the main channels shrank as a result of audience migration to niche digital channels. And, while news and current a airs programming account for a substantial portion of its programming, it is the public service broadcaster, Lithuanian National Radio and Television, LRT, which has su ered the heaviest audience shrinkage [9].

To what degree the government controls the news outlets? Other restrictions on media
In general, state authorities in Lithuania do not exert pressure on media. The situation did not change with the arrival of digital media. There are no special regulations on news delivery on the internet and mobile platforms. Provisions of the Information Law describe the basic requirements for news delivery, distribution, and content regulation in all media outlets including the internet [9]. Basic regulation and licensing of broadcasters is concentrated primarily in the LRTK. Some regulatory functions in the area of advertising are attributed to the National Consumer Rights Protection Board (NVTAT), the Competition Council (Konkurencijos taryba), and the State Medicines Control Agency (VVKT) [9]. The LRTK is responsible for organizing tenders for broadcasting and rebroadcasting licenses, as well as granting and setting fees for them. It also supervises whether broadcasters fulll their license conditions and follow the requirements of the Mass Media Law. The LRTK is also authorized to monitor whether broadcasters follow the regulations on protection of minors and on hidden advertising. The perception of the media community is that the LRTK is not active enough in executing its powers and controlling the market [9]. However, the LRTK has no say in the monitoring of print and internet media content, which is overseen by self-regulating bodies and general legislation. The National Consumer Rights Protection Board is responsible for overseeing the regulations on alcohol and hidden advertising. As of September 2006, the Competition Council has been in charge of supervising deceptive and comparative advertising, which was previously within the realm of the consumer board. The Council of Lithuanian Radio and Television (LRTT) is involved in the regulation of the public broadcaster. It has a formal obligation to approve the scope and structure of public broadcasting programs and to decide on the number of channels and their broadcasting time [9]. All decisions by the regulators on sanctions against broadcasters are published on their websites and available to the public.

Hows the media market in the country?

In 2010, there was one Lithuanian national radio and television broadcaster and 47 private radio and 28 private television broadcasters in the country. The annual

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volume of radio programs totaled 387.8 thous. hours, television programs 92.7 thous. hours [3]. In 2010, 3176 titles of books were released; their circulation decreased by 18 per cent (in 2009, 6.1 million; in 2010, 5 million). Moreover, 484 different magazines and 276 newspapers were released. The annual circulation of newspapers, compared to 2009, decreased by 17, that of magazines by 10 per cent [3]. The media market is ercely competitive, with frequent ownership changes but no single group achieving a dominant position. With no statutory provisions preventing media concentration, a system of reporting changes in ownership coupled with general anti-monopoly legislation is supposed to ensure competition. But a tendency toward horizontal concentration poses a threat to media independence, as news can be used as a vehicle to promote the parent companies business and banking interests [9].
Lithuanian National Radio and Television original programs by language of broadcast (2010)

Language Radio total Lithuanian Russian Polish English Other languages Television total Lithuanian Russian Polish Other languages [3]

Average broadcast time per 24 hours in hours 46.7 45.3 0.8 0.5 0.1 22.1 21.9 0.05 0.04 0.02

Newspapers, magazines and other periodicals by language (2010)

Language Newspapers, total Lithuanian Russian Polish Michael Burns 276 253 17 3 C04217397 100% 91.7 6.2 1.1 36

English Other languages Magazines and other periodicals Lithuanian Russian Polish English Other languages [3]

1 2 561 494 10 4 44 9

.4 .6 100% 88.1 1.8 0.7 7.8 1.6

What are the mass media? (local and international)

Please refer to Appendix for lists of mass media.

Who are the major organizational communicators?

Lithuanian National Radio and Television (Lietuvos nacionalinis radijas ir televizija, LRT) is a non-prot public broadcaster that has been providing regular radio services since 1926 and television broadcasts since 1957. It employs around 650 people and receives about 60 percent of its funding from the Lithuanian government. Although predominantly government-nanced, LRT does sell advertising, and also charges other broadcasters for studios and equipment leasing. Its operations are overseen by the Lithuanian Radio and Television Commission (Lietuvos radijo ir televizijos komisija, LRTK), the members of which are appointed by various NGOs and state gures [9]. Media owned by LRT are: TelevisionLTV, LTV World (satellite version), LTV2 RadioLR1, Klasika, Opus3 WebsiteLrt.lt (o ering live online broadcasts of the television and radio channels, as well as archived versions of the latest programs available for downloading

What type of government is in place?

The media landscape in Lithuania is primarily governed by law created by the European Union; however, the Lithuanian constitution The EUs Audiovisual Media Services Directive lays down legislation on broadcasting activities allowed within the EU. From 2009 the rules allow for USstyle product placement on television and the three-hour/day maximum of

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advertising will be lifted. However, a 12-minute/hour maximum will remain. Child programming will be subject to a code of conduct that will include a limit of junk food advertising to children [5].

What are the laws/regulations in the field of media? What about advertising?
Therefore, the mission of the public broadcaster, as well as its functions, arises from various norms, principles, and values entrenched in the Constitution. The broadcasters public services must cover the entire society, help safeguard national interest, and serve the education of civil society and the fostering of culture [9]. Laws against misleading advertisements differ widely from Member State to Member State within the EU. To respond to this imperfection in the Internal Market, the Commission adopted a Directive, in force since October 1986, to establish minimum and objective criteria regarding truth in advertising. The Directive was amended in October 1997 to include comparative advertising. Under the Directive, misleading advertising is defined as any "advertising which in any way, including its presentation, deceives or is likely to deceive the persons to whom it is addressed or whom it reaches and which, by reason of its deceptive nature, is likely to affect their economic behavior or which for those reasons, injures or is likely to injure a competitor." [5] Comparative advertising, subject to certain conditions, is defined as "advertising which explicitly or by implication identifies a competitor or goods or services by a competitor." Member States can, and in some cases have, restricted misleading or comparative advertising [5]. Following the adoption of the 1999 Council Directive on the Sale of Consumer Goods and Associated Guarantees, product specifications, as laid down in advertising, are now considered as legally binding on the seller [5].

How much do people enjoy the freedom of speech?

The Lithuanian constitution grants its citizens freedom of speech, press, assembly, and religion. These rights are generally respected in practice [4].

Whats the social media climate? Is it controlled or influenced by the government?

The public is relatively active in creating content on new media, from comments to news stories to blogs, to activity on social networks. Among young people social network participation exceeds 80 percent, with Facebook and the domestic network One.lt topping the popularity list. Mainstream media, while encouraging usergenerated content in the form of reader comments, have been slow to integrate social networks into their distribution strategies [9]. Content generated by Lithuanian internet users is quite diverse, ranging from numerous comments on the most popular general news sites (a comment count above 500 per story being fairly common) to personal or group blogs dedicated to specic topics of public interest. h e general trend observed since at least 2005 indicates a slight swing of user-generated content (UGC) from simpler, less involved forum messages and participation in matchmaking social networks toward more

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involved blog publishing (peaking in 2007/2008), and back to the microforms of general social networks (e.g. Facebook) and messaging sites such as Twitter [9]. Blogs have been a viable user-generated source of niche activism news, commentary and analysis, while the extent of online civil activism has been limited to a few high prole campaigns, and seldom either reaches mainstream media or generates o ine action [9]. Twitter is not a popular news promotion platform among Lithuanian media. there are very few journalists with Twitter accounts, and those that do participate in conversation do it as a personal activity. Twitter is generally not very popular in Lithuania, probably because it doesnt create immediate social ties or a network, there is less of a one-to-one connection, and possibly because longer Lithuanian words are harder to t within the message limit. [9]. Social networks remain among the most popular websites and compete with news media for visitor attention. In December 2009, gemiusAudience listed the regional social network One.lt as the most popular website. A year later, One.lt was topped by several news sites on gemiusAudiences listings, and by Facebook on Alexas Top 100. Facebook is currently the most popular and fastest-growing social network in Lithuania [9]. Politicians have taken up communicating through new media; some have begun blogging, while others are active on social networks. The bulk of this activity can be observed during pre-election periods, only to fade after that. Nonetheless, government transparency and civic engagement in politics have been enhanced by a range of online tools and initiatives by civil society groups which let voters access and analyze government data, and occasionally generate mainstream media coverage [9].

Preferred media
According to the Communications Regulatory Authority, at the beginning of 2010 almost half (47 percent) of Lithuanians watched free television channels, while 49 percent paid to watch television and 4 percent used both free and paid services. The number of paid digital television users grew by 44.4 percent during 2009; 226,900 Lithuanians (16.1percent of all households) were users of paid digital television services at the end of 2009. The most popular form of digital paid television was digital satellite [9]. At the beginning of 2010, eight free channels were accessed by more than half of Lithuanian households with television sets.

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[9] In broadcast television, the two commercial stations TV3 and LNK have been competing for the top spot in recent years, while public television station LRT and another commercial station, Baltijos Televizija (Baltic Television), compete for the third and fourth slots in the rankings. Lietuvos rytas televizija (Lithuanian Morning Television), which entered the market in 2008 and mainly broadcasts via a digital platform, is also picking up and tying its hopes to the digital era that arrives in Lithuania in October 2012 [9]. The public radio station Lithuanian Radio (Lietuvos radijas, LR) is a clear leader and the other four stations competing among themselves. Russkoje Radio Baltija is a Russian-language radio station, with Russian songs making up the largest share of its playlist. With an average weekly audience of close to 40 percent in Vilnius, it has been the most popular radio station in the capital for the period in question [9].

Transparency, credibility, and trustworthiness of media

The provisions for ensuring transparency of media ownership are weak, with little or no enforcement of legal requirements for reporting ownership, and no means of discovering the benecial (as distinct from titular) owners [9]. There are no separate regulations or legal liability provisions concerning internet content that di er from those which apply to other media. Media regulation is in practice independent from government, but the regulators are lax in exercising their powers, e.g. to enforce ownership transparency rules. A weakness of the regulatory system is its dispersion among several bodies that dont always coordinate among themselves. Their composition raises questions about competence and impartiality [9].

Access to informationinternet, newspapers, etc

Communications Media

2009 747 4,961 .4 .5

2010 n.a. n.a.

Telephones ('000 main lines in use) Mobile cellular telephones ('000 subscribers)

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Internet subscribers ('000) Broadband subscribers ('000) Book titles (incl. brochures) Newspapers: number Newspapers: average circulation (million copies) Magazines and other periodicals Magazines and other periodicals: average circulation (million copies)

636 633 3,972 297 229 589 65

.0 .8

n.a. n.a. 3,17 6 276

.4

188 561

.3

.8

59

.5

Personal computers: 812,400 (241.9 per 1,000 persons) in 2008 [4] For general public The online media market showed di erent growth trends compared to traditional media. Media sites have steadily increased their audience. They also gradually introduced interactivity and new forms of news delivery, such as video and audio reports and videoconferences [9]. The spread of digital media in 20052010 had a considerable impact on the availability of news in Lithuania. There was less impact, however, on usage and journalism. The growing penetration of the internet and appearance of new websites increased the availability of news channels and expanded the choice of news and opinions. h e development of news websites also had a signicant impact on the speed of news delivery, as news sites operate in real time, reporting news instantly, which previously happened only in radio but not in print or even television. The development of digital media has increased the number of news resources, o ering a wider range of news and opinions. This diversity undoubtedly contributes to overall media quality in Lithuania [9]. For media During the last ve years, most news organizations completed the transition to (or adoption of, if they remained primarily based in old media) the internet. The last of the major national dailies to establish a website, Respublika, did so in mid2008. In small newsrooms this responsibility usually falls on the person responsible for newspaper layout and design. Some regional newspapers have a token presence on Facebook or other social networks, but do not treat them as an additional channel for news distribution [9]. Digitization has vastly improved access to information from all sources, particularly public data and documents. This has created the opportunity to greatly improve journalistic investigations but, as discussed in the next section, this opportunity is being missed by journalists and media owners [9]. Michael Burns C04217397 41

Web journalists tend to use more technologically advanced tools for reporting than their colleagues in print, but the principal tools are the same: digital recorder, digital camera, and notebook computer. Smartphones were experimented with but made little impact on daily work mostly because of very limited text input capabilities and relatively slow data upload rates. Most notebook computers, however, are equipped with 3G or WiMAX wireless connections. h is connectivity allows relative independence from the amenities (WiFi, wired internet) at news or event sites, increases speed of reporting, and allows constant monitoring of both parent and competitor publications [9].

Cultural and Societal Norms / Language/ Education

Lithuanians are neither Slavic nor Germanic, although the union with Poland and the colonization by Germans and Russians has influenced the culture and religious beliefs of Lithuania. This highly literate society places strong emphasis upon education, which is free and compulsory until age 16. Most Lithuanians and ethnic Poles belong to the Roman Catholic Church; the Russian Orthodox Church is the largest non-Catholic denomination [4]. In spite of several border changes, Soviet deportations, a massacre of its Jewish population, and German and Polish repatriations, the population of Lithuania has maintained a fairly stable percentage of ethnic Lithuanians (from 79.3% in 1959 to 83.9% in 2011). Lithuania's citizenship law and constitution meet international and Organization for Security and Cooperation in Europe (OSCE) standards, guaranteeing universal human and civil rights [7]. The Lithuanian language still retains the original sound system and morphological peculiarities of the prototypal Indo-European tongue and, therefore, is fascinating for linguistic study. Between 400 and 600 AD, the Lithuanian and Latvian languages split from the Eastern Baltic (Prussian) language group, which subsequently became extinct. The first known written Lithuanian text dates from a hymnal translation in 1545. Written with the Latin alphabet, Lithuanian has been the official language of Lithuania since 1989. While Lithuania was a member of the U.S.S.R., Russian was the official language; many Lithuanians speak Russian as a second language. The resident Slavic populace generally speaks Russian or Polish as a first language [7].

Collectivism/individual
The countryside of Lithuania is more collectivist than the city. But in general, although in Lithuanian literature is said they are collectivists, Lithuanians considered themselves as individualists [4].

Does society lean towards trusting the media or interpersonal relationships?

Lithuanians tend toward trusting interpersonal relationships that often are enabled through interaction on social media [9].

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What is the level of acceptance for individualism?

There is generally a lack of acceptance for certain expressions of individualism but as a whole individualism is valued by the society..

What value systems are endorsed by the culture? Class or status impact?
Digital activism in Lithuania is gradually embracing new tools and technologies, but the majority of citizen voices are still indirect, mostly expressed through personal blogs or petitioning. Petition sites (such as Peticija.lt and E-peticija.lt) seem to be most popular, with some appeals digitally signed by tens of thousands of people [9].

Equality in gender? Perceptions of women, sexual orientation and diversity

Answering the question which neighbors would be the most undesirable for Lithuanian people, more than half of the respondents indicated Roma people (57.1 percent), former prisoners (55.3 percent), and homosexual persons (55.1 percent); half of Lithuanian citizens wouldnt want to live in a neighborhood of people with mental disorders (49.7 percent) One person in four or ve would shun the proximity to Jews (23.8 percent), Kazakh people (21 percent), Turks (20.1 percent), and people of a di erent race (skin color) generally (19.4 percent).[9] This quotation should explain the context for news reporting in the sensitive areas of gay and minority rights and problems. In May 2010, Lithuania briey appeared in the spotlight of international news medianot because the rst gay pride march took place in Vilnius, but because of violent protests against it, involving two infamous Members of Parliament: Petras Graulis and Kazimieras Uoka [9].

Openness to diversity
The diversity of Lithuanian culture has its roots in the multiethnic legacy of the Grand Duchy of Lithuania (14th to 18th century). The limits of the Lithuanian cultural identity have always exceeded the limits of the ethnic territory of Lithuania. In different times, the Lithuanian culture has received powerful input from a number of outstanding personalities, who lived in the territories of today's Poland, Belarus, Russia and Ukraine. Though tolerant of the numerous influences that came with guest artists, occupations, forced and strategic unions, and cultural and scientific exchanges, for centuries Lithuanians have arduously safeguarded the identityforming elements of their traditional culture [1]. Whereas Lithuanias Baltic neighbours, Estonia and Latvia, have large national minorities, ethnic Lithuanians constitute much of the republics population: in the 2001 census, ethnic Lithuanians represented some 84% of the total population, while the two largest minority groups, Poles and Russians, represented 7% and 6%, respectively. As a result, the requirements for the naturalization of non-ethnic Lithuanians were less stringent than in the neighbouring Baltic republics, where national identity was perceived in some quarters as being under threat. Under citizenship laws adopted in late 1989, all residents, regardless of ethnic origin, were

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eligible to apply for naturalization; by early 1993 more than 90% of the countrys non-ethnic Lithuanian residents had been granted citizenship [4]. In an attempt to counter emigration (in particular to the USA), in September 2002 the Seimas approved legislation permitting Lithuanian citizens to hold dual citizenship, thereby facilitating the eventual return of Lithuanian nationals to the country. However, in November 2006 the Constitutional Court ruled that several provisions of this legislation contravened the Constitution, which only allowed dual citizenship to be held in exceptional cases. In July 2008 the Seimas adopted an amended law on citizenship (which was due to expire in January 2010), which notably permitted dual citizenship to be held by Lithuanian citizens who had left the country during the occupations of June 1940March 1990, as well as their children and grandchildren. In December 2009 the Seimas extended the application of this law until July 2010, subsequently extended until January 2011. On 2 December 2010 the Seimas voted on the adoption of new legislation on citizenship, 65 members voting in favour of the proposed law, with amendments and supplements as provided by President Grybauskait, 21 voting against, and 40 abstaining. Grybauskait had previously vetoed two amended proposals; the Constitutional Court was expected to hear an appeal on the validity of the presidential vetoes [4].

Observe the humor of the culture

Humor commonly manifests itself in commercials for products sold in Lithuania, this is the easiest way to observe the humor.

Language (s) what is the main language?

Lithuanian is the official national language, but most businessmen speak English and Russian. Lithuania is among the top 5 EU Member States with the best multilingual skills. According to the Europeans and Languages survey: 90 % of Lithuanians are able to participate in a conversation in a language other than their mother tongue. The EU-25 average is only 50 %. 50 % of the population speaks two foreign languages 90 % of Lithuanians are able to speak Russian, almost 40 % speak English, and around 20 % know the German language [10]

Do we need a reliable translator? How do we reach one locally? The most reliable and cost effective place to begin seeking translation services is at one of the many universities and colleges in Lithuania.

Nonverbal communication/gestures
A handshake is customary at both the beginning and the end of a meeting, and when visiting a home. People that have worked together for years still shake hands each morning, as if it were the first time they were meeting. Be sure to look directly into the person's eyes while shaking hands [10].

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Lithuanians like to keep a larger personal space around them. The acceptable distance is the length of an outstretched arm [10].

Is it a high or low context culture?

Lithuania is a low context culture.

Music, film, literature, fine art

In 2010, there were 1328 libraries subordinate to the Ministry of Culture, 766 cultural centres, 106 museums, 40 drama and music theatres, 32 cinemas operating in the country [3]. In 2010, there were 13 public and 27 private theatres in the country, which gave 4.6 thousand performances, i.e., on average, 115 performances per theatre. The number of theatregoers over the year dropped by 102 thousand (from 960 thousand in 2009 to 858 thousand in 2010). The number of theatregoers received by nonpublic theatres amounted to 271 thousand (in 2009, 314 thousand), or each third theatregoer [3]. In 2010, 8 concert agencies arranged 915 concerts, of which 80 concerts for children and schoolchildren. The number of visitors, compared to 2009, grew by 11 thousand (from 142 thousand in 2009 to 153 thousand in 2010). The highest number of concerts (281) was held at the National Philharmonic Society of Lithuania; a third of all visitors attended the concerts given by the Lithuanian State Symphony Orchestra [3]. Vilnius, the capital city, is a leader in Lithuania by the number and variety of festivals held every year, offering much pleasure to the eyes and ears of lovers of classical and modern music, theatre- and cinema-goers, and fans of modern dances. Other Lithuanian towns also have cultural activities to offer. Especially many and diverse festivals are held in summertime. Jazz, rock, blues, alternative, and electronic music lovers will surely find one to their taste [10]. The number of museum visitors over the year dropped from 2788 to 2727 thousand. Over the year, the number of exhibits exposed from the main stock amounted to 4000 thous., or 6.3 per cent. There were 26 thousand visitors per museum. Just as each year, the highest number of visitors was received by the Lithuanian Sea Museum 330 thousand (in 2009, 376 thousand), Trakai History Museum 276 thousand (in 2009, 286 thousand) [3]. The capital is also home to many art galleries public and private, traditional and contemporary. Nearly all of the galleries change expositions regularly, thus offering the possibility to see works of many local artists representing different timeperiods and styles [10]. It is natural that the absolute majority of professional theatres are concentrated in Vilnius; however, theatre is also still alive in other, smaller towns of the country. Nearly all of the theatres regularly go on tours and therefore have devotees across the world [10].

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UNESCO nowadays proclaims an artifact of traditional Lithuanian culture, the cross-crafting tradition, as a Masterpiece of the Oral and Intangible Heritage of Humanity. Adorned with geometric and floral decorations that have symbolic meanings, each cross is erected in accordance with a specific intention in graveyards as well as by roads or at crossroads, or close to dwelling places [1]. In 2010, Lithuanian cinemas received 2522 thousand cinemagoers, which is by 12 per cent less than in 2009. The number of cinemagoers, compared to 2009, dropped by 293 thousand. There were 32 cinemas operating in the country, with the total of 81 cinema halls. There were, on average, 1.5 thousand showings per cinema hall. In total, there were 19.2 thousand seats in cinemas. In 2010, the number of cinemagoers in rural areas totaled 0.9 thousand, the number of seats 470 [3]. A directory of cultural institutions may be found in the appendix of this document.

Cultural use of time

Lithuanians are very punctual. You will definitely receive a phone call from a visitor a couple of minutes before meeting, if he feels he will be more than five minutes late. Visitors are also expected to arrive on time for every appointment [10]. Deadlines are expected to be honored. The planning process may be a little long and detailed, but once the planning is over, the project will move very quickly [10].

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Customs National and Religious

Customs
Meetings are arranged in advance and confirmed by a telephone call or e-mail. The agenda of the meeting is also arranged in advance. There is also a tradition of exchanging business cards on the first meeting [10].

Major holidays/festivals
The National Song and Dance Celebration tradition, which has lasted for almost a hundred years now, is one of the largest cultural events in Lithuania. Taking place every four years, the Song and Dance Celebration is seen as the most universal manifestation of the Lithuanian national, cultural, artistic, public and political identity nationwide. It has become a link between the archaic folk culture heritage and contemporary national culture and professional art. UNESCO has proclaimed the tradition and symbolism of the Song and Dance Celebration in Lithuania as a Masterpiece of the Oral and Intangible Heritage of Humanity [1].

Greetings
Greeting: labas rytas (in the morning), laba diena (during the day), labas vakaras (in the evening), sveiki (informal). Bidding Farewell: viso gero, likite sveiki, iki pasimatymo, sudie. Expressing gratitude: ai

Do they welcome foreigners?

Moving to Lithuania is an imperative considerable decision. Usually foreigners moved to Lithuania are honestly welcome, however, there are some preservative laws that sometimes can prejudice settling there. There are no limitations for people from other countries of European Union to live in Lithuania, but for those from outside the European Union there are some rules.

What are their views of Americans? Western powers?

Lithuanians generally view Americans and Western powers in a positive light.

National pride? Monuments

Lithuanians are proud of their heritage and the history of their country and its struggle for independence.

Paternalistic/materialistic society
Lithuania is a paternalistic society.

Foodtraditional meals
Even though Lithuania is a small country, eating habits and food preferences differ from region to region. In emaitija (the north-western ethnographic region), Michael Burns C04217397 47

for instance, people love porridges. Everyone here likes cannabis dishes and kastinys a type of spicy spread made from butter and sour-cream. People in Auktaitija (the central and north-eastern region of Lithuania) like different types of pancakes, dumplings, and meals from curds and cottage cheese [10]. In Dzkija (the south-eastern part of the country), people have since long ago been growing buckwheat and know how to make most delicious cakes, locally called babkos, and many other dishes from buckwheat. Living in the land of forests, local people are unrivalled berry-gatherers and mushroom-pickers, and their women are experts in preparing mushrooms. In Suvalkija (the south-western region), the most popular food is smoked meat and dishes from grated potatoes and fatty pork. For people living at the sea or lagoon, the traditional daily meal is, naturally, fish [10].

Musictraditional music
Lithuanian folk music, sutartins (from the word sutarti, 'to be in concordance, in agreement') represent an ancient form of two and three-voiced polyphony, based on the oldest principles of multivoiced vocal music [1].

How/where do people live? Living conditions

In urban areas, 37 per cent of persons were living in the households where none of the economic difficulties mentioned was indicated, in rural areas 31 per cent. All the five problems mentioned were indicated by 1 per cent of residents in urban areas and 3 per cent in rural areas. There were fewer complaints about the inability to keep home adequately warm among the rural than among the urban population, while other economic difficulties were experienced more frequently in rural than in urban areas [3]. Lower-income persons were facing all the economic difficulties mentioned more frequently than the richer ones. In the first (the poorest) quintile group, only 13 per cent of persons indicated none of the economic difficulties, while in the fifth (the richest) income quintile group as much as 67 per cent [3]. In 2009, almost all households had a color TV set (99 per cent) and a telephone (95 per cent). 93 per cent of households had a washing machine, 70 per cent a car. Every second household not having the above-mentioned devices named the lack of income as the main reason for deprivation [3]. In 2009, housing expenditure (dwelling rent, electricity, gas, heating, water supply, payment for utilities, interest on mortgage, allowances for heating and water supply) accounted for 12.3 per cent of disposable income. The greatest share of disposable income went on housing maintenance in single-person households (20.7 per cent) and in households with one person with dependent children (19.3 per cent), the smallest share in households with three or more adults (8.6 per cent). Since 2005, the share of disposable income spent on housing maintenance was on the decrease, while in 2009 it slightly increased again [3]. In 2009, 17 per cent of persons were living in dwellings lacking an indoor flushing toilet, 16 per cent a bath or shower; every fifth resident was living in Michael Burns C04217397 48

dwellings with a leaking roof, rot in window frames or floor, damp walls or floors (in 2005, 25, 23, and 32 per cent respectively). With the increase in household income, housing quality increases; however, dissatisfaction with the living environment (noise, air pollution in a residential neighborhood) does not diminish. In 2009, 16 per cent of residents complained about the noise, 14 per cent about the air and environmental pollution [3]. Housing quality in urban and rural areas contrasted strongly. In urban areas, 6 per cent of persons were lacking an indoor flushing toilet, in rural areas 41 per cent; a bath or shower 6 and 36 per cent respectively. There were fewer complaints about the noise, air pollution and high criminality in a residential neighborhood from the rural than from the urban population [3]. The average useful floor area per capita amounted to 26.1, in urban areas 24.8, in rural areas 28.9 m2. The useful floor area per capita in Vilnius city amounted to 25.5, Kaunas city 25.4, Klaipda city 23.4, iauliai city 22.9, Panevys city 22.4 m2 [3]. The stock of dwellings was comprised of 1274.4 thousand dwellings. In urban areas, two-room dwellings were predominant (39 per cent), in rural areas threeroom dwellings (32.4 per cent). There were 393 dwellings per 1000 population. The average size of a dwelling was 66.6, in urban areas 60.9, in rural areas 79.3 m2 [3].
Number of dwellings in thousands (2010)

Total (thousands) Total One-room Two-room Three-room Four-room Five-room and more Dwellings per 1000 population Average useful floor area per dwelling, m2 Urban areas Rural areas Dwellings, % 1274,4 208,0 448,5 352,5 132,7 132,7 393 66,6 60,9 79,3 100,0

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Urban areas Rural areas [3]

69,3 30,7

How do people dress?

Business dress in Lithuania is conservative. Businessmen usually wear dark suits in the autumn and winter seasons. Light suits are worn in the summertime. Businesswomen also dress conservatively, usually in dark suits and white blouses [10].

What religions are in the country?

In Lithuania, the Church is separated from the State, meaning that there is no official religion in Lithuania. Yet, religious communities are classified into traditional and non-traditional. Traditional religions are those which have existed in Lithuania for at least 300 years, while non-traditional are those which have been professed in the country for 25 or more years and are supported by the public and do not act against laws or the morale [10]. The majority of Lithuanian population is Roman Catholics, the traditional religious community. Other confessions are Orthodox Believers, Evangelical Lutherans, Evangelical Reformists, Old Believers, Jews, Muslims and some other faiths [10]. Nine traditional religious associations and communities existing in Lithuania are recognized by the State, the biggest being the association of Roman Catholics. According to the data of the Lithuanian Bishops Conference, at the beginning of 2011, there were 715 parishes in Roman Catholic dioceses. There were 731 functioning churches with 861 priests. In 2010, 8.5 thousand couples got married in Catholic churches, which is by 361 couples less than in 2009. Over the past two years, 29.7 thousand baptisms were recorded annually. In 2010, 33.7 thousand ecclesiastical funeral rites were performed, which is by 0.6 thousand more than in 2009 [3]. Does religion play a major role in daily life and in politics? Religion does play some role in politics as it is the underpinning of several political parties and to some degree it has an effect on the daily life of some citizens. Does religion influence laws made? Religion does influence some social laws that are made but generally does not affect those relating to business.

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Politics, Real Politics, Government, Law

The structure of government
Lithuania is a multi-party, parliamentary democracy. The president, who is elected directly for 5 years, is head of state and commander in chief overseeing foreign and security policy. The president nominates the prime minister and his cabinet and a number of other top civil servants. The Seimas, a unicameral parliament, has 141 members that are elected for a 4-year term. About half of the members are elected in single constituencies (71), and the other half (70) are elected in a nationwide vote by party lists. A party must receive at least 5% of the national vote to be represented in the Seimas [7]. Who makes decisions and how Under the terms of the Constitution that was approved in a national referendum on 25 October 1992, supreme legislative authority resides with the Seimas (Parliament), which has 141 members, elected by universal adult suffrage for a fouryear term (71 deputies are directly elected by majority vote, with 70 being elected from party lists on the basis of proportional representation). The President of the Republic (who is Head of State) is elected by direct popular vote for a period of five years (and a maximum of two consecutive terms). Executive power is vested in the Council of Ministers, headed by the Prime Minister, who is appointed by the President with the approval of the Seimas. The Constitutional Court, the Supreme Court, the Court of Appeal and district and local courts exercise judicial power. For administrative purposes, Lithuania is divided into 10 counties. Until July 2010 Lithuania was divided into 10 counties. However, in a process of administrative reform, the counties were abolished and their powers were transferred to municipal bodies [4]. President Dalia Grybauskait. Prime Minister Andrius Kubilius (appointed on October 27, 2008). The Government of the Republic of Lithuania includes the ministers of: Foreign Affairs Audronius Aubalis, Culture Arnas Gelnas, Social Security and Labour Donatas Jankauskas, National Defence Rasa Jukneviien, Environment Gediminas Kazlauskas, Economy Rimantas ylius, Transport and Communications Eligijus Masiulis, Interior Raimundas Palaitis, Energy Arvydas Sekmokas, Agriculture Kazys Starkeviius,

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Education and Science Gintaras Steponaviius, The highest legislative body Seimas (141 members; term of office 4 years), Chairperson of the Seimas Irena Degutien. Electoral system. 50 per cent of Seimas members are elected on a first-past-the-post and 50 per cent on a proportional representation basis. All Lithuanian citizens aged 18 and over are entitled to vote. Last elections: presidential May 17, 2009, legislative October 12, 2008. Next elections: presidential 2014, legislative 2012. Justice Remigijus imaius, Finance Ingrida imonyt, Health Care Raimondas ukys. Chairman of the Board of the Bank of Lithuania Vitas Vasiliauskas [3] What are the political parties? Date Established 1990-01-17 1990-06-01 1990-08-01 1991-02-06 1994-06-21 1994-09-07 1994-09-13 1994-10-21 1995-12-28

Political Parties

Lithuanian Social Democratic Party Lithuanian Humanists Party Lithuanian Green Party Republican Party National Progress Party Party Young Lithuania Lithuanian Freedom Union Lithuanian Poles Electoral Action Lithuanian Russians Union

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Lithuanian Social Justice Union Lithuanian Reform Party Civil Democracy Party Lithuanian Social Democratic Union Christian Party Union of Lithuanian Peasants and Peoples Party Order and Justice Republican League Political Party Russian Alliance Lithuanian Christian Democratic Party National Party Way of Lithuania Liberal and Centre Union Lithuanian Centre Party Labour Party Liberal Movement of the Republic of Lithuania Small and Medium Business Party Lithuanian Pensioners Party Homeland Union-Lithuanian Christian Democrats Rising Nation Party Labor Party emaiiai (Samogitian) Party Political Party Trade Union Centre emaitija (Samogitia) Party Socialistic Peoples Front Lithuanian Peoples Party Political Party Green Movement of the Republic of Lithuania [3]

1996-04-29 1996-06-24 1996-08-14 1999-12-27 2000-07-14 2002-03-15 2002-03-19 2002-09-23 2002-10-16 2003-01-28 2003-06-23 2003-06-26 2003-07-04 2003-11-25 2006-04-11 2006-11-20 2007-06-12 2008-06-20 2008-06-30 2008-07-29 2009-02-13 2009-06-23 2009-07-08 2010-02-23 2010-04-19 2011-05-11

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Police/government corruption There is a general perception in Lithuanian society that Corruption, especially on lower levels, is common. More than 50 governmental institutions regulate commerce in one way or another, creating a bureaucracy that is not transparent [5]. Large foreign investors report few problems with corruption. On the contrary, most large investors report that high-level officials are often very helpful in solving problems fairly. In general, foreign investors say that corruption is not a significant obstacle to doing business in Lithuania and describe most of the bureaucrats they deal with in Lithuania as reasonable and fair [5]. Small and medium enterprises (SME) perceive themselves as more vulnerable to petty bureaucrats and commonly complain about extortion. SMEs often complain that excessive red tape virtually requires the payment of "grease money" to obtain permits promptly. Business owners maintain that some government officials, on the other hand, view SMEs as likely tax-cheats and smugglers, and treat the owners and managers accordingly [5]. Paying or accepting a bribe is a criminal act. Lithuania established in 1997 the Special Investigation Service (Specialiuju Tyrimu Tarnyba) specifically to fight public sector corruption. The agency investigates approximately 100 cases of alleged corruption every year. In 2010 the Vice Minister of Health was charged with corrupt practices and resigned from his Post. This represents the first example of a highlevel official prosecuted on charges of corruption in Lithuania. Lithuania ratified the UN Convention Against Corruption in December 2006. Lithuania also hosts a representative office of Transparency International (TI). TI ranked Lithuania 52nd in its 2009 Perceptions of Corruption Index with a score of 4.9. (TI considers countries with a score below 5.0 to have serious problems with corruption.) Police, medical personnel and local government, among others, were cited by TI as prone to corruption [5]. Corruption, including bribery, raises the costs and risks of doing business. Corruption has a corrosive impact on both market opportunities overseas for U.S. companies and the broader business climate. It also deters international investment, stifles economic growth and development, distorts prices, and undermines the rule of law [5]. It is important for U.S. companies, irrespective of size, to assess the business climate in the relevant market in which they will be operating or investing, and to have an effective compliance program or measures to prevent and detect corruption, including foreign bribery. U.S. individuals and firms operating or investing in foreign markets should take the time to become familiar with the relevant anticorruption laws of both the foreign country and the United States in order to properly comply with them, and where appropriate, they should seek the advice of legal counsel [5].

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Military Lithuania, a member of the North Atlantic Treaty Organization (NATO) since 2004, fully endorses the concept of collective defense. National policy recognizes the role of NATO as the guarantor of security in Europe. The goal of Lithuania's defense policy is to create a military that can provide for limited Lithuanian national defense and contribute to international missions through NATO, the UN, and other groups, and to continue to integrate Lithuania into Western defense structures. The Defense Ministry is responsible for combat forces, search and rescue operations, and intelligence. The government has committed to the NATO goal of dedicating 2% of GDP to defense spending, but current funding levels sit below 1% [7]. Lithuania maintains approximately 8,000 active duty troops and 5,000 reserve troops. The core of the Lithuanian force structure is the Iron Wolf Motorized Infantry Brigade, which consists of five battalions and appropriate support elements. The Lithuanian Air Force operates a handful of fixed-wing aircraft and helicopters. The National Defense Volunteer Forces, equivalent to the U.S. National Guard, also supports Lithuanias defense posture. Lithuania cooperates with Estonia and Latvia in the joint naval squadron BALTRON, and the three established a trilateral Baltic infantry battalion for the NATO Response Force in 2010. NATOs Baltic Air Policing mission is based at the Zokniai air base near Siauliai [7]. The Border Police, with approximately 4,500 staff, falls under the jurisdiction of the Interior Ministry; it is responsible for border protection, passport and customs duties, and the interdiction of smuggling and trafficking activities. Lithuania, which borders Latvia, Poland, Belarus, and the Russian enclave of Kaliningrad, protects and controls one-tenth of the entire EU external border, a total of 1,043 km [7]. Lithuania deployed troops to Iraq until 2008 and continues to participate in the NATO Training Mission-Iraq. Lithuania sent troops to Afghanistan in 2002. Since the summer of 2005, Lithuania has participated in the NATO International Security Assistance Force (ISAF) in Afghanistan, leading a Provincial Reconstruction Team in Ghor province, the smallest NATO ally to do so. Lithuanian Special Operation Forces serve in southeastern Afghanistan, and Lithuanian trainers lead a Police Operational Mentoring and Liaison Team in Ghor Province and an Air Mentoring Team in Kandahar [7]. How free are those people to speak out, especially if their opinions differ from those of government leaders? For the most part people are able to speak freely and share differing opinions; however, there is a stigma that leads many such comments to be made strictly offrecord. Censorship? Censorship of mass media is prohibited. [4] What is the number or level of non-profits and of NGOs in a country? There is a reasonably large number of nonprofits and NGOs in Lithuania that serve a full range of societal needs.

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What is the amount of freedom granted to transnational organizations within a nations borders? Foreign investors may defend their rights under the Washington Convention of 1965 by applying to either Lithuanian courts or directly to the International Center for the Settlement of Investment Disputes. To date, Lithuania has not been involved in any major investment disputes with American or other foreign investors [5]. The Constitution and the Law on Foreign Capital Investment protect all forms of private property against nationalization or requisition [5]. What is the judicial system like? The Lithuanian legal system stems from the legal traditions of Continental Europe and is in accordance with the EU's acquis communautaire. New laws enter into force upon promulgation by the President (or in some cases the Chairman of the Parliament (Seimas) and publication in the official gazette Valstybes Zinios ("State News") [5]. General jurisdiction courts, dealing with civil and criminal matters, comprise the core of the Lithuanian court system: the Supreme Court, the Court of Appeals, district courts, and local courts. In 1999, Lithuania established a system of administrative courts to adjudicate administrative cases, which generally involve disputes between government regulatory agencies and individuals or organizations. The administrative court system consists of the Highest Administrative Court and District Administrative Courts [5]. The Constitutional Court of Lithuania is a separate, independent judicial body that determines whether laws and legal acts adopted by the Seimas, President, and the Government conform to the Constitution [5]. Lithuania's legal system provides several possibilities for commercial dispute resolution. Parties can settle disputes in local courts or in the increasingly popular independent, i.e., non-governmental, Commercial Court of Arbitration. Lithuania also recognizes arbitration by foreign courts. Courts generally operate independently of government influence. There have been no major disputes between foreign investors and the Government of Lithuania since independence in 1991 [5].

Laws
Visas/permits If you are staying in Lithuania for more than 90 days within any six-month period, you must apply for temporary residency. Lithuanian authorities recommend applying for a residency permit through a Lithuanian embassy or consulate before initial entry into Lithuania, as processing times can run beyond 90 days. All foreigners from non-European Union countries seeking entry into Lithuania must carry proof of a medical insurance policy contracted for payment of all costs of hospitalization and medical treatment in Lithuania. If you lack proof, you must purchase short-term insurance at the border from a Lithuanian provider for roughly $1.00 per day; the number of days will be calculated from the day of entry until the Michael Burns C04217397 56

date of your return ticket. Children residing in Lithuania must have written permission from at least one parent to travel outside the country if neither parent is accompanying them on their trip. This policy is not applicable to temporary visitors [7]. The following fees are charged for issuing visas: Airport transit visa (A) 60 EUR Transit visa (B) 60 EUR Short stay visa (C) 60 EUR Long stay visa (D) 60 EUR Simplified transit documents (STD) 5 EUR Citizens of states which have concluded an agreement with the European Community on simplified visa regime will have to pay a fee of EUR 35 for a Schengen visa or EUR 70 for a Schengen visa issued as a matter of urgency [10]. Business permits Citizens of the European Union, the European Economic Area or Switzerland willing to work in Lithuania, are not required to have any work permit. Citizens of the European Union Member States and their family members, who come to Lithuania for more than three months are issued a certificate confirming their legitimate residence, as approved by the Minister of Interior [10]. Non-EU citizens willing to work in Lithuania must obtain a work permit. This should be done before coming to Lithuania, unless a foreigner is relieved from this obligation. A work permit is issued to foreigners for a period of up to two years. The permit specifies a company, institution or organization employing the individual as well as the position taken [10]. Documents issued in any foreign country will not be accepted in Lithuania unless they are legalized or approved by Apostille. It can be done by competent authorities that have issued your documents. Apostille approves documents which are issued by countries parties to the 1961 Hague Convention abolishing the requirement of legalization for foreign public documents. The authenticity of the document is confirmed with Apostille by country that has originated a document [10]. Street laws You may drive in Lithuania with a U.S. drivers license for up to 90 days. U.S. citizens who reside in Lithuania for 185 days or more in one calendar year and who wish to continue driving in Lithuania must acquire a Lithuanian driver's license. The foreign license must be given to the Lithuanian Road Police to be processed by the Consular Department of the Lithuanian Ministry of Foreign Affairs [7]. Roads in Lithuania range from well-maintained two- to four-lane highways connecting major cities, to small dirt roads traversing the countryside. Violation of traffic rules is common. It is not unusual to be overtaken by other automobiles traveling at high speed, even in crowded urban areas. Driving at night-- especially in the countryside--can be particularly hazardous. In summer, older seasonal vehicles

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and inexperienced drivers can be extra hazards. Drive with caution at all times. Driving while intoxicated is considered a very serious offense and carries heavy penalties. Be aware that such laws are significantly stricter than in many states in the U.S. The speed limit is 50 km/hr in town and 90 km/hr out of town unless otherwise indicated. The phone number for roadside assistance is 8-800-01414 from a regular phone and 1414 from a GSM mobile phone. If you are involved in a traffic accident, be aware that moving the car before the police arrive can result in you being charged with hit and run [7]. Speed limit is 50 km/h in residential areas, 90 km/h out of town on regional roads, and 110 km/h (1 November 31 March) or 130 km/h (1 April 31 October) on highways. Do not speed: many speed cameras are installed and police regularly patrol on roads, and speeding carries heavy fines [10]. Seatbelts are mandatory for the driver and all passengers. Children under the age of 3 must be seated in the back seat in a child seat appropriate for their age and size. Children under the age of 12 and under 150 cm (approximately 59 inches) may not be seated in the front seat [7]. During the winter, most major roads are cleared of snow. Winter or all-season tires are required from November 10th through April 1st. Studded tires are not allowed from April 10th through October 31st. Drivers must have at least their lowbeam lights on at all times while driving [7]. Governmental levels of power (ex. Regional/state/city) The Seimas Legislative power rests with the Seimas. It comprises 141 members, elected for a four-year term on the basis of universal, equal and direct suffrage by secret ballot. Any citizen who has attained 25 years of age may be a candidate for the Seimas. Members of the Seimas may not be found criminally responsible, may not be arrested, and may not be subjected to any other restrictions of personal freedom, without the consent of the Seimas. The Seimas convenes for two regular fourmonth sessions every year [4]. The Seimas considers and enacts amendments to the Constitution; enacts laws; adopts resolutions for the organization of referendums; announces presidential elections; approves or rejects the candidature of the Prime Minister, as proposed by the President of the Republic; establishes or abolishes government ministries, upon the recommendation of the Government; supervises the activities of the Government, with the power to express a vote of no confidence in the Prime Minister or individual ministers; appoints judges to the Constitutional Court and the Supreme Court; approves the state budget and supervises the implementation thereof; establishes state taxes and other obligatory payments; ratifies or denounces international treaties whereto the republic is a party, and considers other issues of foreign policy; establishes administrative divisions of the republic; issues acts of amnesty; and imposes direct administration and martial law, declares states of emergency, announces mobilization, and adopts decisions to use the armed forces [4]. Michael Burns C04217397 58

The President of the Republic The President of the Republic is the Head of State. Any Lithuanian citizen by birth, who has lived in Lithuania for at least the three preceding years, who has reached 40 years of age and who is eligible for election to the Seimas, may be elected President of the Republic. The President is elected by the citizens of the republic, on the basis of universal, equal and direct suffrage by secret ballot, for a term of five years. No person may be elected to the office for more than two consecutive terms [4]. The President resolves basic issues of foreign policy and, in conjunction with the Government, implements foreign policy; signs international treaties and submits them to the Seimas for ratification; appoints or recalls, upon the recommendation of the Government, diplomatic representatives of Lithuania in foreign states and international organizations; appoints, upon the approval of the Seimas, the Prime Minister, and charges him or her with forming the Government, and approves its composition; removes, upon the approval of the Seimas, the Prime Minister from office; and appoints or dismisses individual ministers, upon the recommendation of the Prime Minister; appoints or dismisses, upon the approval of the Seimas, the Commander-in-Chief of the armed forces and the head of the Security Service [4]. The Government Executive power is held by the Government of the Republic (Council of Ministers), which consists of the Prime Minister and other ministers. The Prime Minister is appointed and dismissed by the President of the Republic, with the approval of the Seimas. Ministers are appointed by the President, on the nomination of the Prime Minister [4]. The Government administers the affairs of the country, protects the inviolability of the territory of Lithuania, and ensures state security and public order; implements laws and resolutions of the Seimas as well as presidential decrees; co-ordinates the activities of the ministries and other governmental institutions; prepares the draft state budget and submits it to the Seimas; executes the state budget and reports to the Seimas on its fulfilment; drafts legislative proposals and submits them to the Seimas for consideration; and establishes and maintains diplomatic representation with foreign countries and international organizations [4]. Judicial System The judicial system is independent of the authority of the legislative and executive branches of government. It consists of a Constitutional Court, a Supreme Court, a Court of Appeal, and district and local courts [4]. Political history The first round of the presidential election, held on 13 June 2004 and contested by five candidates, proved inconclusive. In the second round, held on 27 June, Adamkus was narrowly elected to the presidency, receiving 52.6% of the votes cast, defeating Prunskien. Meanwhile, Lithuanias first elections to the European Parliament, following the accession of the country to full membership of the Michael Burns C04217397 59

European Union (EU) on 1 May (see below), were held concurrently with the first round of presidential voting, with the participation of 46% of the electorate. The recently founded Labour Party (LP), headed by a controversial, ethnically Russian business executive, Viktor Uspaskich, won five of the 13 mandates allocated to Lithuania; the governing LSDP, the Lithuanian Liberal and Centre Union and the HU each obtained two seats, while the LDP and the Peasants' and New Democracy Union (PNDUled by Prunskien) each won one seat. Adamkus was inaugurated on 12 July, and on the following day the Seimas approved his nomination of Brazauskas as Prime Minister [4]. Elections to the Seimas, held in two rounds on 10 and 24 October 2004, demonstrated that the LP had further consolidated its support. It became the largest single party in the Seimas, receiving 28.4% of the votes cast on the basis of party lists, and obtaining 39 of the 141 elective seats. A coalition of the LSDP and the NU, known as Working for Lithuania, received 20.7% of the votes cast on the basis of party lists, and 31 seats. The HU obtained 25 seats, and the Liberal and Centre Union 18. The Order and Justice coalition, comprising the LDP and the Lithuanian People's Union for a Free Lithuania, received 11 seats, while the PNDU obtained 10 [4]. The rate of participation at the municipal elections held on 25 February 2007 failed to exceed 40% of the electorate. In November 2007 the Minister of the Interior and the head of the police service resigned, after a police official under the influence of alcohol fatally injured three children in an automobile accident. In January 2008 an agreement was signed on the expansion of the ruling coalition to include the NU, thereby giving it a majority in the Seimas, with 73 seats [4]. In February 2008 the Seimas approved a controversial agreement signed between the Government and a private investor, NDX Energija, on the establishment of the Lithuanian Electricity Organization (LEO LT), which was to be responsible for projects in the energy sector, including the construction of a new nuclear power plant. Kirkilas narrowly survived a motion of no confidence in the Seimas in April, with the support of 68 deputies [4]. eslovas Jurnas of the LSDP was elected Chairman of the Seimas at the beginning of April 2008, following the resignation of Muntianas in response to media allegations of corruption. Also in early April the Minister of Education and Science, Roma akaitien, tendered her resignation, following a series of strikes by teachers; she was replaced by Algirdas Monkeviius of the NU, a previous incumbent of the post, in late May [4]. In late November 2008 the Seimas approved the nomination of Kubilius as Prime Minister, to head a four-party coalition Government controlling 80 seats in the Seimas. The new Council of Ministers, which took office in December, comprised six members of the HULCD, three members of the Liberal Movement of the Republic of Lithuania, two members each of the Liberal and Centre Union and of the NRP, and one independent. The HULCD assumed responsibility for the economy, finance and national defense portfolios, while Vygaudas Uackas,

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hitherto ambassador to the United Kingdom, was appointed Minister of Foreign Affairs. Addressing the countrys economic difficulties was identified as the Governments main priority by Kubilius, who proposed to reform the taxation system, to restructure public finances and to reduce levels of corruption. However, the introduction of austerity measures in January 2009 (see Economic Affairs) aroused public discontent, and a protest organized that month by trade union leaders in Vilnius became violent, with police reportedly forcibly dispersing demonstrators. In February Arvydas Sekmokas was appointed to the newly created post of Minister of Energy. In the following month the Constitutional Court ruled that legislation providing for the establishment of LEO LT violated the Constitution. The Government pledged to restructure LEO LT, but in December an agreement allowing the liquidation of the company was signed with NDX Energija [4]. The Seimas voted to dismiss Valinskas as its Chairman in September 2009 in response to allegations that he had links to an organized crime group. The claims, which Valinskas denied, had been made by Aleksandras Sacharukas, a former party colleague who had been excluded from the NRP in July, together with three other NRP deputies. Irena Degutien, of the HULCD, was elected to chair the Seimas. In October, following several months of negotiations, the Government signed an agreement with trade unions and business associations on reductions in salaries and social security benefits [4]. The Minister of Foreign Affairs, Vygaudas Uackas, resigned in January 2010. A day earlier the Seimas had approved the findings of a parliamentary investigation that had confirmed the existence in Lithuania of two secret detention centres operated by the USAs Central Intelligence Agency in 200206 [4]. As part of a wider program of administrative reform, in July 2010 10 governorships and their corresponding county divisions were abolished. Hitherto the highest level of local governance, county-level powers were redistributed to municipal bodies. On 27 February 2011 municipal elections took place, in which the electorate was able to vote for coalitions of independent candidates, as well as political parties, for the first time. According to the provisional results of the Central Electoral Committee, the LSDP secured the most votes (21.4%), followed by the CP (16.3%) [4]. Meanwhile, in December 2010 the European Court of Human Rights (ECHR) had returned a verdict stating that the decision by the Constitutional Court to impose a permanent and irreversible ban on the appointment of former President Paksas to a position that required an oath of office was disproportionate, and in contravention of the principals of the Convention for the Protection of Human Rights and Fundamental Freedoms. The ECHR recommended that amendments to Lithuanias Constitution be implemented. Although the ECHR emphasized that it had not assessed the validity of Paksass 2004 impeachment, Paksas immediately sought to use the ruling as proof that it had been unconstitutional, and announced his intention to stand in the legislative elections scheduled for 2012. In response to the ECHRs ruling, Minister of Justice Remigijus imaius announced that a

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working group would be established to determine how to implement the ruling. In early March Dainius Kreivys resigned from his position as Minister of the Economy, owing to claims that he had transferred EU funds to a company that was partly owned by his mother; he was replaced by Rimantas ylius. In April 2011 the Government approved a new National Anti-Corruption Programme for 201114, which focused on nine areas, including public procurement, legislative bodies and the activities of civil servants [4].

Capital punishment
Lithuania abolished the death penalty in 1998 ratifying its new constitution.

Transparency of the government

The legal system of the Republic of Lithuania recognizes generally accepted principles of the legal regulation of investments and subjects both Lithuanian and foreign investors to equal business conditions. However, red tape remains a problem and local business leaders complain that bureaucratic procedures often are not user-friendly and that the interpretation of regulations is too often inconsistent and unclear [5]. Businesses and private individuals complain of corruption, including in the process of awarding government contracts and the granting of licenses and permits. Businesses also complain that they have little opportunity to influence new legislation and that new legislation sometimes appears with little advance notice. Modern technology, however, may alleviate this problem: the parliament's website contains all draft laws currently before it. Ministries also post many, but not all, draft laws under consideration [5].

Individual freedoms and personal rights

The rights and freedoms of individuals are inviolable. Property is inviolable, and the rights of ownership are protected by law. Freedom of thought, conscience and religion are guaranteed. All persons are equal before the law. No one may be discriminated against on the basis of sex, race, nationality, language, origin, social status, religion or opinion. Citizens may choose their place of residence in Lithuania freely, and may leave the country at their own will. Citizens are guaranteed the right to form societies, political parties and associations. Citizens who belong to ethnic communities have the right to foster their language, culture and customs [4]. Gay/Lesbian rights Formerly marginalized groups, such as ethnic and sexual minorities, have gained a platform on the internet which they were almost entirely denied in mainstream media. Conversely, however, the internet has created opportunities for racist and otherwise discriminatory or hate content, mainly in the form of users comments posted anonymously in response to news reports and commentary on minority groups and issues [9]. The tabloid Vakaro inios and publications of the Respublika publishing group were involved in many controversies centering on gay rights and minorities. In

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February 2004, the Respublika daily printed an editorial accusing gays and Jews of conspiring to usurp power in the world, Lithuania included. Such opinions are not unknown on the internet, but emerging in a national daily they alarmed both Lithuanian society and international observers.

Political stability
Inefficient government bureaucracy, corruption, and lack of regulatory transparency, continue to discourage some investors. Lithuania, however, has made progress in addressing these problems, and they do not represent significant obstacles to U.S. trade and investment in Lithuania [5].

Social regulations (unions, social security)

Free movement of people is one of the fundamental freedoms in the European Union. If due to some reason you decide to change your place of residence, your social guarantees shall also be transferred alongside with you. Every state enjoys highly diverse social security systems, therefore the EU regulations for coordination of social security systems are applied to make the transfer process smooth. Nevertheless, these regulations do not seek harmonisation of diverse social security systems [10]. Regulations for coordination of social security systems are applicable with regard to all the citizens of the European Union: workers, their family members, and non-active persons. Regulations that are currently in force are based on the following four principles: Non-discrimination on the grounds of nationality; A person is covered by social insurance only in one member state; Insurance periods gained in different member states are aggregated; Social security benefits may be exported. Regulations cover all major social security benefits: Sickness, maternity and paternity benefits; Invalidity and unemployment benefits; Retirement and pre-retirement benefits; Survivors benefits; Benefits for accidents at work and occupational diseases; Death grants; Family benefits.

Economics:
Developed/underdeveloped country
The process of privatization and the development of new companies slowly moved Lithuania from a command economy toward a free market. By 1998, the economy had survived the early years of uncertainty and several setbacks,

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including a banking crisis, and seemed poised for solid growth. However, the collapse of the Russian ruble in August 1998 shocked the economy into negative growth and forced the reorientation of trade from Russia toward the West. In 1997, exports to former Soviet states were 45% of total Lithuanian exports. In 2006, exports to the East (the Commonwealth of Independent States--CIS) were only 21% of the total, while exports to the EU-25 were 63%, and to the United States, 4.3% [7]. Although Lithuanias high private sector contribution to GDP is evidence of a strong private sector, the concept of Corporate Social Responsibility (CSR) is not very widely known in Lithuania, especially in rural areas where there is little or no foreign investment. The understanding of the concept is frequently linked to philanthropy, rather than partnership. The private sector appears more interested in its own business affairs rather than displaying a real commitment to social issues [5].

Competitive or supportive economy

By mid-2010, Lithuania had accumulated foreign direct investments (FDI) of $13.7 billion, with U.S. investments amounting to $356 million, or 2.7% of FDI. The current account deficit in the second quarter of 2010 was 3.6% of GDP. Lithuania has privatized nearly all formerly state-owned enterprises. More than 79% of the economy's output is generated by the private sector. The share of employees in the private sector exceeds 65%. The Government of Lithuania completed banking sector privatization in 2001, with 89% of this sector controlled by foreign--mainly Scandinavian--capital. Lithuanian Railways and Lithuanian Post are the only remaining state-owned companies that may be offered for privatization in the near future [7].

Trade - import/exports
International trade for such a small country as Lithuania is crucial. The ratio of foreign trade to GDP has always been at least 100%, and exceeded it for the last several years [10]. The EU is the biggest trade partner of Lithuania with a 58% of total imports and 64% of total exports during the first ten months of the year 2009. The Commonwealth of Independent States is the second economic union that Lithuania trades the most with, with a share of imports of 34% and a share of exports of 23% during the same period. The vast majority of commodities, including oil, gas and metals have to be imported, mainly from Russia. For this reason, Russia is the biggest import partner of Lithuania [10]. Some sectors are directed mainly at export markets. Transport and logistics export 2/3 of their products and/or services; the biotechnology industry exports 80%; plastics export 52%; laser technologies export 86%; metal processing, machinery and electric equipment export 64%; furniture and wood processing export 55%; textile and clothing export 76%; and the food industry exports 36% [10].
Principal Commodities (million litai)

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Imports c.i.f. Prepared foodstuffs; beverages, spirits and vinegar; tobacco and manufactured substitutes Mineral products Mineral fuels Products of the chemical or allied industries Plastics, rubber and articles thereof Textiles and textile articles Base metals and articles thereof Machinery and mechanical appliances; electrical equipment; sound and television apparatus Nuclear reactors, boilers, etc. Electrical machinery, sound and television recorders and parts thereof Vehicles, aircraft, vessels and associated transport equipment

2008 3,045

2009 .7

2,686

2010 .4 2,920

.5

21,552 20,154 6,530

.6 .4 .0

13,157 .1 12,527 .8 5,570 .0

20,268 .5 19,518 .2 6,688 .8

3,055

.2

2,058

.0

2,718

.6

2,916 4,475 10,485

.0 .4 .1

2,285 2,274 5,998

.3 .4 .2

2,733 3,003 7,649

.4 .6 .3

5,839 4,645

.4 .7

3,514 2,483

.3 .9

4,123 3,526

.1 .1

8,978

.7

2,953

.6

4,793

.6

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Total (incl. others)

73,006

.3

45,311 .0

60,942 .7

Exports f.o.b. Live animals and animal products Vegetable products Prepared foodstuffs; beverages, spirits and vinegar; tobacco and manufactured substitutes Mineral products Mineral fuels Products of the chemical or allied industries Fertilizers Plastics, rubber and articles thereof Wood, cork and articles thereof; wood charcoal; manufactures of straw, esparto, etc. Textiles and textile articles Articles of apparel and clothing accessories, not knitted Base metals and articles thereof Machinery and mechanical appliances; electrical equipment; sound and television apparatus Vehicles, aircraft, vessels and associated transport equipment Miscellaneous manufactured articles Total (incl. others)
Principal Trading Partners (million litai)

2008 2,405 3,366 2,905 13,824 13,678 5,354 3,519 3,304 1,742 3,058 990 2,647 5,914 4,756

.5 .2 .8 .5 .0 .2 .0 .0 .0 .9 .9 .3 .5 .6

2009 2,289 2,644 2,890 8,746 8,678 3,694 1,814 2,750 1,337 2,624 814 1,817 4,078 2,956

.7 .8 .9 .1 .2 .7 .4 .8 .2 .7 .5 .0 .0 .1

2010 2,709 3,400 3,588 12,821 12,721 4,377 2,052 3,662 1,889 3,224 965 2,430 5,721 4,194

.4 .7 .8 .2 .7 .0 .6 .7 .0 .1 .0 .6 .4 .0

2,894 .8 55,511 .0

2,6023 .0 40,732 .0

3,149 .0 54,264 .3

Imports c.i.f. Austria Belarus Belgium China, People's Republic Czech Republic Denmark Estonia Finland France Germany Italy Latvia Netherlands Poland Russia Spain Sweden Michael Burns

2008 642 1,247 1,751 1,870 1,086 1,560 2,115 1,525 2,088 8,647 2,598 3,801 2,562 7,291 21,854 1,043 2,170

.5 .0 .0 .0 .1 .9 .7 .5 .7 .8 .2 .0 .2 .3 .8 .1 .1

2009 356 748 1,345 1,122 842 1,006 1,188 847 1,129 5,133 1,736 2,904 1,835 4,517 13,537 678 1,226

.6 .7 .7 .8 .8 .6 .6 .7 .9 .7 .5 .9 .4 .3 .0 .2 .7

2010 447 1,036 1,973 1,486 864 1,039 1,741 1,080 1,571 6,667 1,991 3,814 2,682 5,386 19,878 731 1,989

.9 .9 .0 .2 .7 .0 .0 .8 .0 .9 .4 .6 .3 .6 .1 .5 .6 66

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Ukraine United Kingdom USA Total (incl. others) Exports f.o.b. Belarus Belgium Canada Denmark Estonia France Germany Italy Latvia Netherlands Norway Poland Russia Singapore Spain Sweden Ukraine United Kingdom USA Total (incl. others) [4] 2008 2,495 916 672 2,598 3,169 2,682 3,974 884 6,442 1,896 1,165 3,207 8,916 240 906 1,885 1,805 2,567 1,775 55,511

1,017 1,371 1,275 73,006

.4 .9 .0 .3

427 748 504 45,311

.7 .1 .8 .0

602 965 627 60,942

.1 .3 .2 .7

.8 .5 .7 .0 .8 .4 .6 .0 .2 .5 .9 .8 .5 .4 .9 .5 .4 .8 .7 .0

2009 1,923 702 215 1,552 2,860 1,305 3,943 811 4,099 2,067 1,018 2,927 5,394 83 674 1,473 1,221 1,788 1,200 40,732

.5 .6 .0 .8 .7 .3 .3 .8 .1 .9 .3 .1 .4 .8 .8 .4 .5 .5 .8 .0

2010 2,840 835 958 1,625 2,739 1,794 5,325 1,036 5,187 2,997 1,242 4,174 8,457 130 554 1,931 1,954 2,661 1,533 54,264

.7 .0 .4 .0 .0 .4 .4 .4 .4 .7 .7 .6 .4 .2 .1 .6 .1 .2 .4 .3

Standard/acceptable working hours

By law, white-collar workers have a 40-hour workweek. Blue-collar workers have a 48-hour workweek with premium pay for overtime. There are minimum legal health and safety standards for the workplace. However, worker complaints indicate that employers do not always observe these standards. Lithuania is a member of International Labor Organization (ILO) and adheres to its conventions [5].

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[3]

Is it a commercially based economy or a government-based economy?

Lithuanias economy is based on the right to private ownership and freedom of individual economic activity. Every person may freely choose an occupation, and has the right to adequate, safe and healthy working conditions, adequate compensation for work, and social security in the event of unemployment. Trade unions may be freely established and may function independently. Employees have the right to strike in order to protect their economic and social interests. The state guarantees the right of citizens to old-age and disability pensions, as well as to social assistance in the event of unemployment, sickness, widowhood, etc. [4].

Hows the tax system?

Lithuania has an attractive tax system, characterized by low and flat taxes [10]. There are two free economic zones in Lithuania. One is in the second largest Lithuanian city Kaunas, and the other is in the third largest city of Klaipda. Prepared industrial sites are available for investors, with physical and/or legal infrastructure, as well as support services. In the free economic zones, there is no property tax, and no tax on dividends for foreign investors. There is also no profit tax during the first six years, and during the next ten years, companies have to pay only 50% of corporate profit tax [10]. As of 2010, group taxation of corporate profit has been introduced. This allows groups to balance profits and losses within them, whereby losses can be transferred among different entities of a group if the controlling entity holds at least 2/3 of the shares of the controlled entity [10]. Among other favorable conditions of corporate profit taxation in Lithuania are the following: entities can reduce taxable profit if they are carrying out an investment project into new technologies; expenses incurred by companies carrying out R&D projects can be deducted thrice; 10% withholding tax on interest has been abolished for companies resident in the European Union [10]. In July 2003, the EU started applying Value Added Tax (VAT) to sales by nonEU based companies of Electronically Supplied Services (ESS) to EU based nonbusiness customers. U.S. companies that are covered by the rule must collect and Michael Burns C04217397 68

submit VAT to EU tax authorities. European Council Directive 2002/38/EC further developed the EU rules for charging Value Added Tax. These rules were indefinitely extended following adoption of directive 2008/8/EC [5].

What financial organizations exist? Which of them can help the company?
Invest Lithuania assists foreign companies in launching and developing successful investments in Lithuania. The one-stop-shop and free-of-charge service provider has recently helped Barclays Bank, Western Union, IBM, Ideal Invent Technologies and other foreign businesses establish contact networks and successfully launch and run their businesses in Lithuania [12]12. The following guide is provided to guide quick business setup in Lithuania. Steps to start a private limited liability company in Vilnius Step Open a bank account with the minimum capital and get a bank certificate proving the availability of the funds; pay the registration fee and obtain the document evidencing the payment Notarize the agreement /memorandum of incorporation and bylaws; notarise the application for the registration of the private limited liability company Register with the Companies Register, including registration with the State Tax Inspectorate (the Lithuanian Revenue Authority) for corporate tax, VAT, and the State Social Insurance Fund Board (SODRA) Period in Days Charge in EUR

~4.3

~145

~57 no charge no charge

Complete VAT registration Inform the State Labour Inspectorate of the establishment of the company by letter or

10-15

12

12. Lithuania, I. Invest Lithuania. 2012 [cited 2012 27 February 2012]; Available from: http://www.investlithuania.com/en/. Michael Burns C04217397 69

Step phone Open a settlement bank account (to handle normal commercial transactions)

Period in Days

Charge in EUR

no charge ~8.2726

Obtain the official seal of the company [12]

Additionally, coverage from the Overseas Private Investment Corporation (OPIC) is available for U.S. investments in Lithuania. Lithuania is a member of the Multilateral Investment Guarantee Agency (MIGA). Lithuania's fully convertible currency, the litas, is pegged to the euro, while its exchange rate against the U.S. dollar fluctuates on a daily basis. On January 10, 2011, the exchange rate was 1 USD = 2.68 LTL. Lithuania plans to adopt the euro, but is unlikely to meet the Euro Zone's entry requirements until 2014, at the earliest [5].

What are the laws/regulations in the field of business?

There are no laws regulating the relationship between a foreign company and its distributors or agents in Lithuania. The provisions of a given distribution agreement define the terms of the relationship. A joint venture with a local partner is usually the best way for a U.S. company to start a business in Lithuania [5]. Legislation approved in January 2003 authorized the sale of agricultural land to foreign owners, although its implementation was to be subject to a seven-year transition period [4]. Lithuania joined the European Union (EU) in 2004, Lithuanian laws are now fully harmonized with the EU legislation. The country is a part of the single EU market ensuring unrestricted movement of goods, services, persons and capital within all EU. Member States are prohibited from levying any duties or charges having equivalent effect on goods crossing a border within the EU. Discriminatory taxes, quotas and measures having equivalent effect are also prohibited by EU law. Restrictions on free circulation of services are prohibited as well. There are no restrictions on the amount of capital that can be transferred from one EU Member State to another. In addition, Lithuania is a member of the borderless Schengen area ensuring easy movement between Lithuania and other European countries. Multinationals doing business on the Lithuanian market are easily developing business projects across all the EU [10].

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How are natural resources utilized and owned. Private? Governmental? Combination? Foreign?
The Lithuanian Government has privatized nearly all major state assets. Remaining state-owned assets planned for privatization include Lithuanian Railways (Lietuvos Geleinkeliai) and Lithuanian Post (Lietuvos Patas) [5].

Imports vs. exports and pertinent laws and relationships.

The Lithuanian Government has set a strategic goal to be achieved by the country by the year 2015 - to become the Northern Europe Service Hub [10].

Currency / exchange rate / restrictions on currency repatriation

Litas is Lithuania's official currency that has been in circulation since 25 June 1993. Since 2 February 2002, the Litas has been pegged to the Euro at the official exchange rate of 3.4528 Litas for 1 Euro. The pegging should remain in effect until the Litas is replaced with the Euro, which is planned to happen in 2014 [10]. Litas is the legal tender anywhere in Lithuania. Most of the sellers and service providers also accept credit and debit payment cards [10].

Standard of living / Level of poverty / Debt levels

Cost of Living (Consumer Price Index; base: 2000 = 100)

2008 Food (incl. beverages) Fuel and light Clothing Rent All items (incl. others) 144 156 78 163 126 .1 .3 .0 .3 .9

2009: Food (incl. beverages) 146.5; All items (incl. others) 132.6.; 2010: Food (incl. beverages) 145.8; All items (incl. others) 134.3 [4].

Does the government provide something for everyone?

Social protection receipts and expenditure are calculated according to the European System of Integrated Social Protection Statistics (ESSPROS). According to the ESSPROS, social protection encompasses all interventions from public or private bodies intended to relieve households and individuals of the burden of a defined set of risks or needs, provided that there is neither a simultaneous reciprocal arrangement nor an individual arrangement involved. The list of risks or needs (functions) that may give rise to social protection is as follows: 1. Sickness and/or health care;

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2. Disability; 3. Old age; 4. Survivors; 5. Family and/or children; 6. Unemployment; 7. Housing 8. Social exclusion not elsewhere classified. [3] The main source of funding for social protection are employers social contributions. In 2009, they made up 49 per cent of total social protection receipts. General government contributions made up 33 per cent. Compared to 2008, employers social contributions and general government contributions decreased by 16 per cent. In 2009, social protection expenditure amounted to LTL 19.5 billion, or LTL 5849 per capita. Over the year, it increased by 9 per cent, while compared to 2005 2 times [3]. Expenditure on benefits linked with old-age have been predominant. In 2009, it amounted to LTL 7696 million, or 41 per cent of total expenditure on social protection benefits. Compared to 2008, expenditure on old-age benefits increased by LTL 524 million, or 7 per cent. Such a growth was mainly conditioned by an increase in the amount of the state social insurance old-age pension. During 2009, it increased, on average, by LTL 41 (5 per cent) and equalled LTL 811. Due to the enforcement of the provisional Law on the Recalculation and Payment of Social Benefits (Official Gazette, 2009, No 152-6820), the average state social insurance old-age pension decreased by LTL 65 (8 per cent), and equalled LTL 746 in 2010 [3]. Social welfare programs At the end of 2010, there were 937.8 thousand persons who received at least one pension, i.e. 28.9 per cent of the total population. State social insurance oldage pensioners accounted for the greatest share of pension beneficiaries; at the end of 2010, their number stood at 599 thousand, which is by 6.3 thousand (1 per cent) more than in 2005 [3]. Since 2005, expenditure on disability benefits and services grew 2 times, while over 2009 by 5.5 per cent. In 2009, it amounted to LTL 1918 million, or 10 per cent of total expenditure on social protection benefits. From 2005, the average number of state social insurance work incapacity (including disability) pension beneficiaries increased by 10.8 thousand (5 per cent). The average amount of the state social insurance disability pension in 2009 increased by LTL 42 (6 per cent ) and equalled, on average, LTL 727; in 2010, due to the enforcement of the provisional Law on the Recalculation and Payment of Social Benefits, it decreased by LTL 23 (3 per cent) and equalled, on average, LTL 705. In 2010, the average amount of the work incapacity pension, paid since 1 July 2005, equalled LTL 568, which is by 5 per cent less than in 2009 [3].

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In 2009, sickness and/or health care expenditure amounted to LTL 4963 million, or 26 per cent of total expenditure on social protection benefits. Compared to 2008, it decreased by LTL 191 million, or 3.7 per cent. In 2009, families and children were allocated 14 per cent of expenditure on social protection benefits. In 2009, this expenditure amounted to LTL 2597 million and, compared to 2005, increased 3 times, while compared to 2008 by LTL 503.5 million, or 24 per cent [3]. The growth in expenditure was conditioned by an increase in state social insurance maternity/paternity benefits and the number of their beneficiaries. Before 2010, the most significant increase was observed in expenditure on state social insurance maternity/paternity benefits during parental leave: in 2009, it increased 1.6 times and totalled LTL 1198 million. However, since July 2010, after a reduction in the amount of state social insurance maternity/paternity benefits during parental leave from 100 to 90 per cent of the compensatory wage until the child reaches one year of age and from 85 to 75 per cent until the child reaches two year of age, expenditure on these benefits decreased by 3 per cent and amounted to LTL 1166 million [3]. As the number of beneficiaries was on the increase, expenditure on state social insurance maternity benefits in the period of pregnancy and childbirth increased to 259 million (19 per cent) in 2009; however, with the decrease in earnings and the number of beneficiaries, it decreased to LTL 198 million (23.5 per cent) in 2010 [3]. According to the data of the State Child Rights Protection and Adoption Service under the Ministry of Social Security and Labour, at the beginning of 2011, the number of families at social risk totalled 10.9 thousand, the number of children brought up in them 23.3 thousand. Over the previous year, 2145 children lost parental care, which is by 30 children less than in 2009 and by 452 children less than in 2000 [3]. Health care Medical facilities are available throughout Lithuania, but medical standards may vary, especially in rural areas. Private clinics are service-friendly, but not always equipped for emergencies [5]. Medical care in Lithuania has improved, but medical facilities do not always meet Western standards. There are a few private clinics with medical supplies and services that nearly equal Western European or U.S. standards. Most medical supplies are now widely available, including disposable needles, anesthetics, antibiotics, and other pharmaceuticals; however, hospitals and clinics still suffer from a lack of equipment and resources. Lithuania has highly trained medical professionals, some of whom speak English, but their availability is decreasing as they leave for employment opportunities abroad. Depending on a patients condition, an appointment with a specialist may not be available for several weeks. Western-quality dental care can be obtained in major cities. Elderly travelers who require medical care may face difficulties. Most pharmaceuticals sold in Lithuania are from Europe; travelers will not necessarily find the same brands that they use in the United States. Serious medical problems requiring hospitalization and/or medical evacuation can cost thousands of dollars or more. Doctors and hospitals Michael Burns C04217397 73

often expect immediate cash payment for health services, particularly if immigration status in Lithuania is unclear [7]. Government programs The number of children residing in care homes for children and disabled youth (boarding schools) stood at 0.7 thousand. Besides, 2.2 thousand disabled children resided in special schools and special education centres. Compared to 2009, the number of disabled children and youth in the said schools and centres dropped by one-third, while in social care homes this number remained almost unchanged [3]. At the end of 2010, 4.5 thousand persons lived in care institutions for the elderly, 5.9 thousand for disabled adults. Compared to 2000, the number of residents in care institutions for the elderly and disabled adults increased by 9 per cent [3]. The system of social service institutions has been expanding. At the end of 2010, 12 social care establishments of novel type continuing care retirement communities were operating, with 227 elderly and disabled residents in them [3]. In 2010, 12.9 thousand persons received home help and social care at home, which is by 5 per cent less than in 2009 and by 63 per cent more than in 2006. Besides, 333 more people received social care benefits and arranged the provision of social services at home themselves [3]. Since 2000, the number of places in shelters for the homeless increased by 86 per cent and at the end of 2010 stood at 1.2 thousand. In 2010, there were 2 thousand persons living in shelters; most of them (78 per cent) were men [3].

Tourism
Amount of tourism? In 2010, accommodation establishments received 1.55 million guests, of whom 54.1 per cent were foreigners. Hotels accommodated 1.17 million; rest establishments 83.8 thousand, health care establishments 106.6 thousand guests. In 2010, compared to 2009, hotels accommodated by 10.6 percent more guests. Foreigners made up 63.1 per cent. The major part of guests was from Poland (16.8 per cent), Germany (12.2 per cent), Russia (12.1 per cent), Latvia (8 per cent), Belarus (6.3 per cent), United Kingdom (4.6 per cent), Finland (4.4 per cent), and Estonia (3.8 per cent). In 2010, the hotel room occupancy rate stood at 36.9 per cent (in 2009, 34.3 per cent). In 2010, Vilnius hotels received 518.7 thousand guests, which is by 7 per cent (foreigners by 8.1 per cent) mores than in 2009. The Vilnius hotel room occupancy rate stood at 46.8 per cent (in 2009, 44 per cent). In 2010, 83.8 thousand visitors stayed in rest establishments, which is by 1 per cent more than in 2009. The average number of guest-nights per visitor stood at 3.2 The majority of visitors stayed in Palanga (33.5 thous.), Moltai (9.2 thous.) and Neringa (8.2 thous.) district municipalities [3]. There were 106.6 thousand visitors (patients) in health care establishments, of whom 24.7 thousand foreigners. The majority of foreigners were from Belarus (34 per cent),

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Germany (29.1 per cent), Russia (20.7 per cent), Latvia and Poland (5.5 per cent each)[3]. Where do tourists go?

[3]

[3] Where do they come from? % Change from previous year by country (2010) [3]

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8,8 Total 6,4 EU (excluding Lithuania) 2,2 Euro area -1,5 EFTA -15,3 Ireland -8,5 Austria 6,8 Belgium -21,9 Bulgaria -14,4 Czech Republic 24,9 Denmark 7,2 Estonia -9,6 Greece -51,5 Iceland 14,5 Spain 9,0 Italy 36,6 United Kingdom 24,7 Cyprus 5,9 Latvia 8,1 Poland 5,6 Lithuania -33,3 Luxembourg 5,9 Malta 1,2 Netherlands 7,6 Norway 2,9 Portugal 7,4 France -10,9 Romania 7,7 Slovakia 11,6 Slovenia 16,3 Finland 3,4 Sweden -13,5 Switzerland and Liechtenstein

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66,1 Hungary -3,9 Germany 6,6 Turkey -18,0 Other European countries 33,8 CIS 34,5 Russia 36,9 Belarus 8,2 Ukraine 29,4 Africa 23,2 America 15,9 USA 67,1 Canada 17,2 Asia 12,1 Israel 0,7 Japan 31,6 China 0,4 Australia and Oceania

Industry/ Business based

Doing Business 2012 analyzes ten factors affecting the ease of establishing a business in each of 183 countries ranked. These factors are: starting a business, dealing with construction permits, getting electricity, registering property, getting credit, protecting investors, paying taxes, trading across borders, enforcing contracts and resolving insolvency. The ranking on each topic is the simple average of the percentile rankings on its component indicators [13]13.
Chart of How Lithuania and comparator economies rank on ease of doing business [13]

13

13. Corporation, T.W.B.a.t.I.F., Doing Business 2012: Doing Business in a More Transparent World, 2012, The International Bank for Reconstruction and Development / The World Bank: Washington D.C. Michael Burns C04217397 77

Customs Meanwhile, relations between Lithuania and Russia were further strained in June 2008, when the Seimas adopted legislation prohibiting the public display of Soviet and Nazi symbols. In late June several hundred Lithuanian websites were subject to pro-Russian attacks, their content being replaced by the Soviet flag and anti-Lithuanian propaganda. A dispute over customs inspections arose in August 2009, when the Lithuanian Government accused Russian officials of deliberately delaying Lithuanian lorries attempting to enter Russia from neighbouring Latvia, but was resolved following the intervention of President Grybauskait. In February 2010, in the highest level bilateral meeting to take place since 2001, Grybauskait and Russian premier Vladimir Putin held talks in Helsinki, Finland to discuss cooperation in a number of areas, including energy [4]. Study of the market
Gross Domestic Product by Economic Activity (million litai at current prices)

2010 Agriculture, hunting and forestry Fishing Mining and quarrying Manufacturing Electricity, gas and water supply 2,827 71 328 15,480 3,102 .5 .1 .9 .0 .8

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Construction Wholesale and retail trade; repair of motor vehicles, motorcycles and personal and household goods Hotels and restaurants Transport, storage and communications Financial intermediation Real estate, renting and business activities Public administration and defense; compulsory social security Education Health and social work Other community, social and personal service activities Private households with employed persons Gross value added at basic prices Taxes on products Less Subsidies on products GDP in market prices Industries

4,799 14,478

.2 .9

1,036 12,892 2,040 11,644 5,854 4,617 3,172 2,468 82 84,897 11,054 1,310 94,641

.6 .5 .8 .5 .2 .2 .4 .7 .4 .8 .9 .7 .9

Information Communication Technologies (ICT) Lithuania has the largest ICT industry in the Baltic States. 14 out of the 20 largest IT services companies in the Baltic States are based in Lithuania. Lithuania has got a talent pool of more than 45,000 employees in the ICT and services business. There are 7 universities and 8 colleges with IT curriculums in Lithuania [10]. Lithuania has the most up-to-date technologies which is one of the major needs to offshore services (EDGE technology, 3G mobile communications infrastructure with data speeds of 3.6 Mbps and mobile WiMAX 4G Internet). Lithuania has worlds 2nd speediest upload Internet, Europes No. 1 fiber broadband penetration (23 %), EUs greatest mobile penetration of 147%, and is worlds No. 1 in the number of mobile telephone subscribers per 100 population - 3.4 million of Lithuanians use almost 5 million active SIM cards as well as global leader in mobile e-signature [10].

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It is expected that by 2015 products of IT, laser technologies, biotechnologies, nanotechnologies and materials science will constitute 25 % of Lithuanias GDP and 80 % of national export [10]. The ICT sector includes: Manufacture of electronic components Manufacture of computers and peripheral equipment Manufacture of communication equipment Manufacture of consumer electronics Manufacture of magnetic and optical media Wholesale of information and communications equipment Software publishing Telecommunications Computer programming, consultancy and related activities Data processing, hosting and related activities; web portals Repair of computers and communication equipment [3] Based on preliminary data, the output of the ICT sector in 2010, compared to 2009, decreased by 2.8 per cent and accounted for 3.9 per cent of the total output (in 2009, 4.5 per cent). The most noticeable decrease in output was observed in the manufacture of computers and peripheral equipment and was the lowest since 2005. The increase in output was suffered in manufacture of communication equipment, electronic components and boards [3]. The value added of the ICT sector in 2010, compared to 2009, decreased by 1.2 per cent and accounted for 2.4 per cent of the value added in the whole economy (in 2009, 2.5 per cent). The most noticeable decrease in the value added was observed in the manufacture of computers and peripheral equipment. The increase was observed in manufacture of communication equipment and, like the output, was the highest since 2005 [3]. In 2010, exports of ICT goods totaled LTL 1551.3 million in terms of commodity value, imports LTL 2588.9 million. In 2010, compared to 2009, exports of ICT goods increased by 46.4, imports by 45.2 per cent. In 2010, ICT goods accounted for 2.9 per cent of the total Lithuanian exports (in 2009, 2.6 per cent), while imports of ICT goods accounted for 4.2 per cent of the total imports (in 2009, 3.9 per cent) [3].

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[3] Agriculture Agriculture (including hunting, forestry and fishing) contributed 4.2% of GDP and engaged an estimated 9.2% of the employed population in 2009. The principal crops are cereals, sugar beet, potatoes and vegetables [4].
Principal Crops ('000 metric tons)

2009 Wheat Barley Rye Oats Triticale (wheat-rye hybrid) Potatoes Sugar beet Peas, dry Rapeseed Cabbages and other brassicas Onions, dry Carrots and turnips Apples 2,100 858 207 142 426 662 682 50 415 121 20 63 40 .2 .2 .9 .5 .0 .5 .0 .3 .8 .1 .6 .7 .6

Aggregate production ('000 metric tons, may include official, semi-official or estimated data): Total cereals 3,017.0 in 2007, 3,421.9 in 2008, 3,806.6 in 2009; Total roots and tubers 576.1 in 2007, 716.4 in 2008, 662.5 in 2009; Total vegetables (incl. melons) 288.7 in 2007, 318.5 in 2008, 332.2 in 2009; Total fruits (excl. melons) 56.6 in 2007, 91.5 in 2008, 70.5 in 2009 [4].
Livestock ('000 head at 1 January)

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2009 Horses Cattle Pigs Sheep Goats Chickens Turkeys [4]

Livestock Products ('000 metric tons)

54 771 897 48 17 8,841 194

2009 Cattle meat Pig meat Chicken meat Cows' milk Hen eggs Honey [4] Forestry
Roundwood Removals ('000 cubic metres, excl. bark)

45 60 66 1,786 47 1

.1 .4 .6 .9 .8 .6

2009 Sawlogs, veneer logs and logs for sleepers Pulpwood Fuel wood Total [4]
Sawnwood Production ('000 cubic metres, incl. railway sleepers)

2,742 935 1,783 5,460

2009

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Coniferous (softwood) Broadleaved (hardwood) Total [4]

Fishing (metric tons, live weight)

635 376 1,011

2009 Capture Largehead hairtail Atlantic redfishes Jack and horse mackerels Sardinellas European sprat European anchovy Chub mackerel Northern prawn Aquaculture Total catch [4] Industry Industry (including mining, manufacturing, construction and power) contributed 26.7% of GDP and engaged an estimated 27.0% of the employed population in 2009 [4].
Selected Products ('000 metric tons, unless otherwise indicated)

172,692 19 5,544 53,671 16,781 19,515 5,946 17,903 3,422 176,114

2009 Sausages and smoked meat products Flour Refined sugar Beer ('000 hectolitres) Wine ('000 hectolitres) Michael Burns C04217397 70 270 106 276 540 83 .5 .8 .5 .2

Cotton fabrics (million sq m) Woollen fabrics (million sq m) Fabrics of man-made fibres Footwearexcl. rubber and plastic ('000 pairs)* Plywood ('000 cubic metres) Particle board ('000 cubic metres) Paper and paperboard Sulphuric acid Cement* Cast iron Television sets ('000) Refrigerators and freezers ('000) Bicycles ('000) Electric energy (million kWh)* * Figures are rounded [4] Mining

0 1 7 900 47 498 86 1,154 600 4 420 152 310 14,200

.2 .9 .7

.1 .8 .4

.6 .5 .7

Mining and quarrying contributed 0.3% of GDP, and provided only an estimated 0.2% of employment in 2009. Lithuania has significant reserves of peat and materials used in construction (limestone, clay, dolomite, chalk, and sand and gravel), as well as small deposits of petroleum and natural gas. In terms of gross value added, the sector registered growth of 3.0% in 2004, according to official data [4].
Mineral Production ('000 metric tons, unless otherwise indicated)

2008 Crude petroleum Dolomite ('000 cubic metres) Limestone Clay ('000 cubic metres) Peat 128 1,848 1,596 359 378

2009: Crude petroleum 115. [4]

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Manufacturing The manufacturing sector contributed 16.3% of GDP and engaged 16.0% of the employed labour force in 2009. Based on the value of sales (excluding refined petroleum products), in 2008 the principal branches of manufacturing were food products (particularly dairy products), chemicals (including fertilizers), wood products (particularly furniture), and clothing [4]. Construction The construction sector contributed 6.3% of GDP, and engaged 8.7% of the employed labour force in 2009 [4]. Services The services sector contributed 69.1% of GDP and provided 63.8% of total employment in 2009. The Baltic port of Klaipda is a significant entry point for regional trade. According to World Bank estimates, the GDP of the services sector increased, in real terms, by an average of 7.1% per year in 200008; real services GDP increased by 10.5% in 2007 and by 3.9% in 2008 [4]. The Lithuanian Government has set a strategic goal to be achieved by the country by the year 2015 - to become the Northern Europe Service Hub. By 2015 the share of exports of services should make approximately 1/3 of Lithuanias total exports. Similarly, it is expected that 1/3 of the total FDI in Lithuania will settle down in the services sector by 2012 [10]. Biotechnologies It is estimated that the sector employs 700 people, including 160 R&D employees, while its total annual revenues exceed EUR 50 million. The success of the Lithuanian biotechnology industry has been reinforced by the return of Lithuanian scientists who had spent over a few years abroad [10]. 15 research institutions carry out chemical and biochemical research on protein, enzymes and nucleic acid for pharmaceutical purposes, and also execute molecular biology research on prokaryote and eukaryote cells [10]. 16 institutions, including five major universities, train biotechnology and business specialists in cooperation with both domestic and foreign biotechnology companies [10]. Lasers Laser technology is another high-tech pillar of the Lithuanian economy with the annual growth of 20% and nearly threefold increase in sales over the past 5 years. Lithuania is the world leader capturing 50% of the world market for high-energy pico-second lasers and more than 80% of global production of ultra fast parametric light generators. 86% of Lithuanian laser production is exported to nearly 100 countries ensuring world recognition of quality and diversification of markets [10].

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Unemployment rate In 2010, the number of the unemployed amounted to 291.1 thousand and, compared to 2009, grew 1.3 times. In 2010, each ninth resident of Lithuania aged 1574 was unemployed (in 2009, each twelfth). The unemployment rate in the country in 2010 stood at 17.8 per cent, which is by 4.1 percentage points more than in 2009. In 2010, the male unemployment rate was higher than the female one: the male unemployment rate stood at 21.2, the female one at 14.4 per cent. The youth (aged 1524) unemployment rate in 2010 stood at 35.1 per cent and was twice as high as the total unemployment rate [3]. In 2010, there were 120.6 thousand long-term unemployed, i.e. persons looking for a job for a year or longer, in the country. They made up 41.4 per cent of the total number of the unemployed. A year ago, this figure stood at 52.2 thousand (23.2 per cent of the total number of the unemployed). In 2010, the long-term unemployment rate reached 7.4 per cent, while a year ago it stood at 3.2 per cent [3]. Tourism
Foreign Visitors by Country of Origin (arrivals at accommodation establishments)

2008 Belarus Estonia Finland France German y Italy Latvia Poland Russia Sweden United Kingdom Michael Burns 45,69 4 41,05 8 40,63 9 24,45 6 130,3 27 27,08 1 84,72 2 156,2 83 91,99 2 22,15 8 39,87 5 C04217397

2009 52,19 3 30,34 0 30,21 1 21,64 1 110,1 63 20,68 9 62,81 5 125,6 62 78,69 0 19,10 1 25,91 1

2010 71,43 6 32,52 7 35,13 7 23,24 8 105,8 32 22,54 7 66,51 9 135,8 56 105,8 69 19,74 7 35,39 8 86

USA Total (in cl. others)

20,67 5 909,9 83

16,96 1 752,3 89

19,66 6 840,3 68

Receipts from tourism (US $ million, incl. passenger transport): 1,077 in 2006; 1,192 in 2007; 1,406 in 2008. [4]

Natural Resources
Energy sources (oil) All three Baltic Governments were concerned at an agreement signed between Russia and Germany, in September 2005, on the construction of a North European Gas Pipeline, which was to carry natural gas from Russia to Germany under the Baltic Sea, bypassing the Baltic countries, which would allow Russia to interrupt the supply of gas to the Baltic states without having to compromise supplies to Western Europe. In June 2006 Russian petroleum supplies to the Maeikiai Nafta petroleum refinery were indefinitely suspended, on the grounds that its pipeline link had been damaged; Russia subsequently refused assistance to repair the pipeline, prompting speculation that the halt in pipeline exports was in reprisal for the majority acquisition in that year of the refinery by Polish enterprise PKN Orlen, rather than by a Russian company. In May 2008 Lithuania withdrew its earlier objections to the initiation of long-delayed talks between the EU and Russia on a new partnership agreement, after being assured that its concerns regarding the continued closure of the pipeline link to the Maeikiai Nafta refinery and Russian policy towards Georgia and Moldova would be addressed. The pipeline remained closed at the end of 2010. Although PKN Orlen bid to purchase the refinery and build a new pipeline to service the facility, the Lithuanian Government refused the offer, amid concerns over national security. With the refinery experiencing economic difficulties, a number of major Russian oil companies expressed an interest in purchasing the site [4]. In the last ten years, Lithuanias energy dependence on imports was fluctuating in some years, it slightly exceeded, while in others it was marginally lower than the EU average. However, in 2010, Lithuanias energy dependence on the imports of fossil fuel considerably increased from 48.8 per cent in 2009 to 79.4 per cent in 2010 and substantially exceeded the EU average. In 2010, compared to 2009, fuel and energy imports increased by 15.3 per cent, of which natural gas by 13.5, hard coal by as much as 48.8 per cent. Upon the closure of the Ignalina Nuclear Power Plant, demand for the imports of electricity noticeably increased. In 2010, 7031 GWh of electricity was imported, while 5751 GWh produced [3]. In June 2010, at the Baltic Development Forum Summit held in Vilnius, Lithuania announced plans to build an offshore liquefied natural gas terminal in an Michael Burns C04217397 87

effort to foster greater independence in energy supplies. This followed a reduction in gas supplies from Russia the previous month owing to a dispute between Russia and Belarus over payments, and Lithuania began to examine the possibility of importing gas via Latvia [4]. In early 2006 the leaders of all three Baltic states (Lithuania, Latvia, and Estonia) had reached agreement on the construction of a new nuclear power plant to replace that at Ignalina (see Economic Affairs) and various other co-operative measures aimed at reducing Russian dominance in the supply of regional energy [4]. In 2007 nuclear power accounted for 73.0% of gross electricity production, and natural gas accounted for 17.9%. Lithuania has substantial petroleum-refining and electricity-generating capacities, which enable it to export refined petroleum products and electricity. Lithuania has been a net exporter of electricity, although in June 2002 formal agreement was reached with the European Union (EU) on the closure of the Ignalina nuclear power plant. The plants two reactors were decommissioned in 2004 and 2009, in return for substantial financial compensation from the EU. In February 2006 the Prime Ministers of Estonia, Latvia and Lithuania reached agreement on the construction of a new nuclear plant in Lithuania by 2015, and Poland became involved in the project in 2007. The connection of the Lithuanian electricity grid to those of Poland and Sweden was also planned [4]. Today the greatest energy potential in Lithuania is shown by biomass, especially firewood and wood waste. The analysis of wood fuel and agricultural waste consumption showed that in 2010 the major amount thereof (61.1 per cent) was consumed in households. The boiler plants of centralised heat supply enterprises and power plants consumed 26.8 per cent of wood fuel and agricultural waste [3]. Wind farms are one of the most environment-friendly and rapidly developing renewable energy technologies in Lithuania. In 2010, compared to 2009, electricity production on wind farms increased by 43 per cent. In 2010, wind energy production accounted for 3.9 per cent of total electricity production in the country [3]. Raw materials Natural resources: peat, arable land, amber [6].

Skilled and unskilled labor When it comes to the labor market, Lithuania has to offer a unique combination of highly qualified human resources and relatively low wages. With 30% of the population having completed higher education, Lithuania has one of the best educated workforces throughout the European Union. The labour market is being supplied by more than 40,000 multi-lingual graduates each year. Another 200,000 are in the pipeline as these students are currently studying at 22 universities and 24 colleges in the country [10].

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References
1. D.C., E.o.t.R.o.L.i.W. Embassy of the Republic of Lithuania in Washington D.C. 2012 [cited 2012 27 February 2012]; Available from: http://usa.mfa.lt/index.php?576916837. Turner, B. LITHUANIA. Statesman's Yearbook Online 2009 [cited 2012 27 February 2012]; Available from: <http://www.statesmansyearbook.com/entry?entry=countries_dc_lt%3E. DEPARTAMENTAS, L.S., STATISTICAL YEARBOOK OF LITHUANIA 2011, 2011, Lietuvos statistikos departamentas: Vilnius. Lithuania, in Europa World Online2012, Routledge: London. State, U.S.C.S.a.U.S.D.o., Doing Business in Lithuania, in Country Commercial Guide2011, U.S. Commercial Service and U.S. Department of State. C.I.A. The WORLD FACTBOOK: Europe: Lithuania. 2012 [cited 2012 27 February 2012]; Available from: https://http://www.cia.gov/library/publications/the-worldfactbook/geos/lh.html. State, U.S.D.o. Lithuania Country Specific Information. 2011 23 November 2011 [cited 2012 27 February 2012]; Available from: http://travel.state.gov/travel/cis_pa_tw/cis/cis_952.html. Lithuanian Style Guide2011: Microsoft Corporation. Parsonis, A.R.a.L.U.a.D., Mapping Digital Media: Lithuania, M.D.a.M. Thompson, Editor 2011, Open Society Media Program: London, United Kingdom. Website, L.R.V.T.O. The Official Gateway of Lithuania. 2012 [cited 2012 27 February 2012]. CDC. Health Information for Travelers to Lithuania. 2012 [cited 2012 27 February 2012]; Available from: http://wwwnc.cdc.gov/travel/destinations/lithuania.htm. Lithuania, I. Invest Lithuania. 2012 [cited 2012 27 February 2012]; Available from: http://www.investlithuania.com/en/. Corporation, T.W.B.a.t.I.F., Doing Business 2012: Doing Business in a More Transparent World, 2012, The International Bank for Reconstruction and Development / The World Bank: Washington D.C.

2.

3. 4. 5. 6.

7.

8. 9. 10. 11. 12. 13.

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Appendix
Government Offices Office of the President S. Daukanto 3/8, Vilnius 01122 Tel: (5) 266-4154 Fax: (5) 266-4145 Email: ieva.baubinaite@president.lt Internet: www.president.lt Office of the Prime Minister Gedimino pr. 11, Vilnius 01103 Tel: (5) 266-3711 Fax: (5) 266-3895 Email: mptarnyba@lrv.lt Internet: www.lrv.lt Ministry of Culture J. Basanaviiaus 5, Vilnius 01118 Tel: (5) 219-3400 Fax: (5) 262-3120 Email: culture@lrkm.lt Internet: www.lrkm.lt Ministry of the Economy Gedimino pr. 38/2, Vilnius 01104 Tel: (5) 262-5515 Fax: (5) 262-3974 Email: kanc@ukmin.lt Internet: www.ukmin.lt Ministry of Education and Science A. Volano 2/7, Vilnius 01516 Tel: (5) 219-1190 Fax: (5) 261-2077 Email: smmin@smm.lt Internet: www.smm.lt

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Ministry of Energy Gedimino pr. 38/2, Vilnius 01104 Tel: (5) 262-0549 Fax: (5) 261-5140 Email: info@enmin.lt Internet: www.enmin.lt Ministry of Finance Lukiki g. 2, Vilnius 01512 Tel: (5) 239-0000 Fax: (5) 279-1481 Email: finmin@finmin.lt Internet: www.finmin.lt Ministry of Foreign Affairs J. Tumo-Vaiganto g. 2, Vilnius 01511 Tel: (5) 236-2444 Fax: (5) 231-3090 Email: urm@urm.lt Internet: www.urm.lt Ministry of Health Vilniaus g. 33, Vilnius 01506 Tel: (5) 268-5110 Fax: (5) 266-1402 Email: ministerija@sam.lt Internet: www.sam.lt Ministry of Transport and Communications Gedimino pr. 17, Vilnius 01505 Tel: (5) 261-2363 Fax: (5) 212-4335 Email: transp@transp.lt

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Media Contacts Newspapers Kauno diena (Kaunas Daily) Kstuio g. 86, Kaunas 44296 Tel: (37) 302250 Fax: (37) 423404 Email: redakcija@kaunodiena.lt Internet: www.kauno.diena.lt Founded 1945; 6 a week; Editor-in-Chief ilvin Petrauskait. circ. 50,000 Klaipda Naujojo Sodo g. 1A, K Centras, Klaipda 92233 Tel: (46) 397750 Fax: (46) 397700 Email: redakcija@kl.lt Internet: www.klaipeda.daily.lt Editor-in-Chief Saulius Pocius. Kurier Wileski (Vilnius Courier) Birbyni g. 4A, Vilnius 02121 Tel/Fax: (5) 260-8444 Email: r.mickiewicz@kurierwilenski.lt Internet: www.kurierwilenski.lt Founded 1953; 5 a week; in Polish. Editor-in-Chief Robert Mickiewicz. circ. 8,000 Lietuvos aidas (Lithuanian Echo) B. Radvilaits g. 9, Vilnius 01124 Tel: (5) 212-4876 Email: algirdaspilvelis@gmail.com Internet: www.aidas.lt Founded 1917; re-est. 19905 a week; Editor-in-Chief Algirdas Pilvelis. circ. 20,000

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Lietuvos rytas (Lithuanian Morning) Gedimino pr. 12A, Vilnius 01103 Tel: (5) 274-3600 Fax: (5) 274-2000 Email: daily@lrytas.lt Internet: www.lrytas.lt Founded 1990; 6 a week, with 3 supplements per week; Editor-in-Chief Rimvydas Valatka. circ. 65,000 (Mon.Fri.), 200,000 (Sat.) Lietuvos inios (Lithuanian News) Kstuio g. 4/14, Vilnius 08117 Tel: (5) 249-2152 Fax: (5) 275-3131 Email: red@lzinios.lt Internet: www.lzinios.lt 6 a week; Gen. Dir and Editor-in-Chief Valdas Vasiliauskas. Respublika (Republic) A. Smetonos g. 2, Vilnius 01115 Tel: (5) 212-3112 Fax: (5) 212-3538 Email: press@respublika.net Internet: www.respublika.lt Founded 1988; 6 a week in Lithuanian, with 5 Russian editions per week; Editor-in-Chief Vitas Tomkus. circ. 55,000 iauli kratas P. Viinskio g. 26, iauliai 77155 Tel: (41) 591555 Fax: (41) 524581 Email: redakcija@skrastas.lt Internet: www.skrastas.lt Dir and Editor-in-Chief Vladas Vertelis. Vakaro inios (Evening News)

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Jogailos g. 11/2-11, Vilnius 01116 Tel/Fax: (5) 261-6875 Email: vakarozinios@takas.lt daily circ. 70,000 Vakar ekspresas (Western Express) M. Mavydo 3, Klaipda 92131 Tel: (46) 411308 Fax: (46) 402408 Email: sekretore@ve.lt Internet: www.ve.lt Founded 1990; 6 a week; Editor-in-Chief Gintaras Tomkus. circ. 16,00022,000 Verslo inios (Business News) J. Jasinskio 16A, Vilnius 01112 Tel: (5) 252-6300 Fax: (5) 252-6313 Email: info@vz.lt Internet: www.vz.lt Founded 1994; 5 a week. Editor Linas Kmieliauskas. circ. 9,000 Periodicals Artuma (Presence) Rotus a. 23, Kaunas 44279 Tel/Fax: (37) 209683 Email: redakcija@artuma.lt Internet: www.artuma.lt Founded 1989 as Caritas ; name changed as above in 1997monthly; Catholic family magazine. Editor-in-Chief Darius Chmieliauskas. circ. 12,500 Kultros barai (Domains of Culture) Latako g. 3, Vilnius 01125 Michael Burns C04217397 95

Tel: (5) 262-3861 Fax: (5) 261-0538 Email: kulturosbarai@takas.lt Internet: www.eurozine.com Founded 1965; monthly; independent cultural magazine. Editor-in-Chief Laima Kanopkiene. circ. 2,200 Laima J. Jasinskio g. 16, Vilnius 01112 Tel: (5) 252-6538 Fax: (5) 252-6531 Email: laima@redakcija.lt Internet: www.redakcija.lt/zurnalai/laima Founded 1993; monthly; lifestyle and feature magazine for women. Editor-in-Chief Gitana Bukauskien. circ. 30,000 Liaudies kultra (Ethnic Culture) Barboros Radvilaits 8, Vilnius 01124 Tel: (5) 261-3412 Fax: (5) 261-2607 Email: llkc@llkc.lt Internet: www.llkc.lt Founded 1988; 6 a year; Gen. Editor Dalia Antanina Rastenien. circ. 550 Literatra ir menas (Literature and Art) Mesiniu 4, Vilnius 01133 Tel: (5) 269-1977 Fax: (5) 212-6556 Email: lmenas@takas.lt Internet: www.culture.lt/lmenas Founded 1946; weekly; publ. by the Lithuanian Writers Union. Editor-in-Chief Kornelijus Platelis. circ. 2,000

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Lithuania in the World J. Basanaviiaus g. 7, Vilnius 01118 Tel: (5) 261-4432 Fax: (5) 212-5560 Email: info@liw.lt Internet: www.liw.lt Founded 1993; 6 a year; in English and Lithuanian. Exec. Editor Jolanta Laumenskait. circ. 10,000 Magazyn Wileski (Vilnius Journal) Laisvs pr. 60, Vilnius 05120 Tel: (5) 242-7718 Fax: (5) 242-9065 Email: magazyn@magwil.lt Internet: www.magwil.lt Founded 1990; monthly; political, cultural; in Polish. Editor Helena Ostrowska. circ. 5,000 Mano Namai Ozo g. 10A, Vilnius 08200 Tel: (5) 247-7714 Email: dalia@manomai.lt Internet: www.mano-namai.lt household, interiors and food. Editor Dalia Daugirdien. Metai (Year) K. Sirvydo g. 6, Vilnius 01101 Tel: (5) 261-7344 Email: metai@takas.lt Founded 1991; monthly; journal of the Lithuanian Writers Union. Editor-in-Chief Danielius Muinskas. circ. 2,000 Mokslas ir gyvenimas (Science and Life) Antakalnio g. 36, Vilnius 10305

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Tel/Fax: (5) 234-1572 Email: mgredacija@takas.lt Internet: ausis.gf.vu.lt/mg Founded 1957; monthly; popular and historical science. Editor-in-Chief Juozas Baldauskas. circ. 3,500 Moteris (Woman) Ozo g. 10A, Vilnius 08200 Tel: (5) 247-7712 Tel/Fax: (5) 247-7711 Email: info@moteris.lt Internet: www.moteris.lt Founded 1952; monthly; popular, for women. Editor-in-Chief Graina Michneviit. circ. 20,000 Naujasis idinys-Aidai (New HearthEchoes) Didioji g. 34, Vilnius 01128 Tel: (5) 212-0311 Fax: (5) 212-2363 Email: aidai@aidai.lt Internet: www.aidai.lt/zidinys Founded 1991; monthly; religion, culture and social affairs. Editor-in-Chief Saulius Drazdauskas. circ. 1,000 Nemunas Gedimino g. 45, Kaunas 44239 Tel/Fax: (37) 322244 Email: nemunasr@gmail.com Internet: test.svs.lt/?Nemunas Founded 1967; weekly since 2004; Thursdays; culture and art; journal of the Lithuanian Writers Union. Editor-in-Chief Viktoras Rudianskas. circ. 1,500 Panel (Young Miss)

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Ozo g. 10A, Vilnius 08200 Tel: (5) 247-7716 Fax: (5) 210-2557 Email: magazine@panele.lt Internet: www.panele.lt Founded 1994; monthly; popular, for ages 1225. Editor-in-Chief Jurga Baltrukonyt. circ. 66,000 Psihologija Tau Trak g. 8, Vilnius 01132 Tel: (5) 262-6763 Fax: (5) 262-7671 Email: redakcija@psichologijatau.lt Internet: www.psichologijatau.lt popular psychology. Editor Rta Chomentauskait. Septynios meno dienos (7 meno dienos) (Seven Days of Art) Bernardin g. 10, Vilnius 01124 Tel: (5) 261-3039 Fax: (5) 261-1926 Email: 7md@takas.lt Internet: www.culture.lt/7menodienos Founded 1992; weekly; culture. Editor-in-Chief Linas Vildinas. circ. 1,500 Tremtinys (Deportee) Laisvs al. 39, Kaunas 44282 Tel: (37) 323204 Email: tremtinys@erdvas.lt Internet: www.lpkts.lt/tremtinys.htm Founded 1988; weekly; publ. of fmr Lithuanian Union of Political Prisoners and Deportees (now part of Homeland UnionLithuanian Christian Democrats). Editor-in-Chief Audron Kaminskien. circ. 4,500

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Valstiei laikratis (Farmers Newspaper) Saltoniki g. 29/Sli g. 3, Vilnius 08105 Tel: (5) 210-0110 Fax: (5) 242-1281 Email: redakcija@valstietis.lt Internet: www.valstietis.lt Founded 1940; 2 a week; Editor-in-Chief Stasys Jokbaitis. circ. 68,000 Vasario 16 (16 February) J. Gruodio g. 9/404, Kaunas 44293 Tel: (37) 225219 Founded 1988; fortnightly; journal of Order and Justice Party. Sec. Primas Noreika. circ. 1,600 News Agencies Baltic News Service (BNS) Jogailos g. 9/1, Vilnius 01116 Tel: (5) 205-8501 Fax: (5) 205-8504 Email: arturas@bns.lt Internet: www.bns.lt Founded 1991; Dir and Editor-in-Chief Artras Raas. ELTA Lithuanian News Agency (ELTA Lietuvos Naujien Agentra) Gedimino pr. 21/2, Vilnius 01103 Tel: (5) 262-8864 Fax: (5) 261-9507 Email: zinios@elta.lt Internet: www.elta.lt Founded 1920; 18.4% owned by Ziniu Partneriai; 39.5% owned by Respublikos Investicija (both cos controlled by Respublika Gp) Dir Grazina Ramanauskait-Tiumenevien. Broadcasting and Communications Communications Regulatory Authority (Ryi reguliavimo tarnyba) Michael Burns C04217397 100

Algirdo 27, Vilnius 03219 Tel: (5) 210-5633 Fax: (5) 216-1564 Email: rrt@rrt.lt Internet: www.rrt.lt Founded 2001; Dir Tomas Barakauskas. Lietuvos radijo ir televizijos komisija (Radio and Television Commission of Lithuania) Vytenio g. 6/23, Vilnius 03113 Tel: (5) 233-0660 Fax: (5) 264-7125 Email: lrtk@rtk.lt Internet: www.rtk.lt Founded 1996; licensing and licence compliance. Chair. Paulius Subaius. Telecommunications Service Providers UAB BIT Lietuva emaits 15, Vilnius 03504 Tel: (6) 560-0656 Fax: (6) 990-0111 Email: info@bite.lt Internet: www.bite.lt Founded 1995; mobile telecommunications service provider; 0.2m. subscribers (March 2007). CEO Fred Hrenchuk. UAB Eurocom Ozo g. 25, Vilnius 07150 Tel: (5) 274-4699 Fax: (5) 274-4612 Email: eurocom@eurocom.lt Internet: www.eurocom.lt Founded 2001; fixed line and mobile telecommunications service provider; a subsidiary of VP Market Dir Sediminas Jvaia.

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Omnitel UAB T. evenkos 25, Vilnius 03503 Tel: (698) 63333 Fax: (5) 274-5574 Email: info@omnitel.net Internet: www.omnitel.lt Founded 1991 as Litcom; owned by Telia Sonera (Sweden)largest mobile GSM communications provider in Lithuania. Pres. Antanas Juozas Zabulis. UAB Tele2 POB 147, Vilnius 01003 Tel: (684) 00212 Fax: (5) 236-6301 Email: tele2@tele2.lt Internet: www.tele2.lt Founded 1999; owned by Tele2 AB (Sweden)provider of GSM, internet and fixed-line telecommunications services. Chief Exec. Petras Masiulis. Teo LT AB Savanori pr. 28, Vilnius 03116 Tel: (5) 262-1511 Fax: (5) 212-6655 Internet: www.teo.lt Founded 1992 under the name Lietuvos Telekomas AB; present name adopted 2006; privatized 1998operates public telecommunications network, repairs telecommunications equipment; monopoly withdrawn in 2003. Chair. Erik Hallberg. Gen. Man. Arnas ikta. 3,200 employees Radio Lietuvos radijas ir televizija (LRT) (Lithuanian Radio and Television) S. Konarskio 49, Vilnius 03123 Tel: (5) 236-3209 Fax: (5) 236-3208

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Email: lrt@lrt.lt Internet: www.lrt.lt Founded 1926; govt-owned; non-profit public broadcasting co; operates three national radio channels and two national television channels. Chair. of Bd Dainius Radzeviius. Dir-Gen. Audrius Siauruseviius. 650 employees A2 Radijo Stotis Laisvs pr. 3, Vilnius 04215 Tel/Fax: (5) 245-4922 Email: a2@a2.lt Internet: www.a2.lt private, commercial. Dir Vydas Ivanauskas. UAB Auktaitijos radijas (AR) Laisvs a. 1, Panevys 35175 Tel/Fax: (6) 840-9222 Email: info@radijas.lt private, commercial Dir Vytautas ilnas. FM 99 Rotus a. 2, Alytus 62141 Tel: (315) 76120 Fax: (315) 74646 Email: fm99@fm99.lt Internet: www.fm99.lt private, commercial; broadcast by UAB Alytaus radijas. Dir Liudas Ramanauskas. Kauno fonas 105.4 Savanori pr. 192802, Kaunas 44151 Tel: (37) 327427 Fax: (37) 327447 Email: info@kf.lt Internet: www.kf.lt

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Founded 2003; private, commercial. Dir drys Staselka. UAB Laisvoji banga Gedimino pr. 50, Vilnius 01110 Tel: (5) 2333212 Fax: (5) 2333121 Email: info@laisvojibanga.lt Internet: www.laisvojibanga.lt private, commercial; broadcasts news and music. Dir Mindaugas Gavutis. Laluna Taikos pr. 81, Klaipda 94114 Tel: (46) 390808 Fax: (46) 390805 Email: laluna@laluna.lt Internet: www.laluna.lt private, commercial. Dir Tadas emaitis. M-1 Laisvs pr. 60, Vilnius 05120 Tel: (5) 236-0360 Fax: (5) 236-0366 Email: m-1@m-1.fm Internet: www.m-1.fm Founded 1989; private, commercial Gen. Man. Rta Grunien. Maeiki aidas (MA) POB 17, Ventos g. 49, Maeikiai 89103 Tel/Fax: (443) 65055 Fax: (443) 65600 Email: info@mazeikiuaidas.lt Internet: www.mazeikiuaidas.lt Founded 1996; private, commercial Dir Tomas Ruginis.

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Pkas, UAB Ringuvos g. 61, Kaunas 45242 Tel: (37) 342424 Fax: (37) 342434 Email: pukas@pukas.lt Internet: www.pukas.lt Founded 1991; private, commercialoperates two radio stations and a television station. Dir Kstutis Pkas. Radiocentras, UAB Laisvs pr. 60, Vilnius 05120 Tel: (5) 212-8706 Fax: (5) 242-9073 Email: biuras@rc.lt Internet: www.rc.lt Founded 1991; private, commercial Gen. Man. Artras Mironcikas. Sauls radijas, UAB Auros al. 64, iauliai 76235 Tel: (41) 525141 Fax: (41) 424404 Email: info@saulesradijas.lt Internet: www.saulesradijas.lt private, commercial Dir Rasa Akukien . Tau Draugysts g. 19357, Kaunas 51230 Tel: (37) 352790 Fax: (37) 352128 Email: info@tau.lt Internet: www.tau.lt private, commercial Dir Giedrius Gipas.

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Znad Wilii, UAB Laisvs pr. 60, Vilnius 05120 Tel: (5) 249-0870 Fax: (5) 278-4446 Email: radio@znadwilii.lt Internet: www.znadwilii.lt Founded 1992; private, commercial Dir-Gen. Miroslavas Juchneviius. Television Lietuvos televizija (LTV) S. Konarskio 49, Vilnius 03123 Tel: (5) 236-3100 Fax: (5) 216-3282 Email: lrt@lrt.lt Internet: www.lrt.lt Founded 1957; subsidiary of LRT (see Radio); programmes in Lithuanian, Russian, Polish, Ukrainian and Belarusian. Dir Rimvydas Paleckis. Aidas, UAB (Echo) Biruts skg. 42, Trakai 21114 Tel: (528) 52480 Fax: (528) 55656 Email: tvaidas@uab.lt mainly relays German programmes; private, commercial Dir eslovas Ruleviius. Baltijos televizija (BTV) Laisvs pr. 60, Vilnius 05120 Tel: (5) 278-0805 Fax: (5) 278-0804 Internet: www.btv.lt Founded 1993; broadcasts own programmes and relays German, Polish and US broadcasts; private, commercial Dir-Gen. Gintaras Songaila. KTV plius

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Nemuno g. 79, Panevys 37355 Tel: (45) 514103 Fax: (45) 443561 Email: pictura@kateka.lt Internet: www.ktvplius.lt private, commercial Pres. Rolandas Meilinas . LNK TV (UAB Laisvas ir nepriklausomas kanalas) ekins g. 20, Vilnius 07156 Tel: (5) 243-1058 Fax: (5) 243-1054 Email: info@lnk.lt Internet: www.lnk.lt Founded 1995; private, commercial; broadcasts TV1. Dir-Gen. Zita Sarakien. PAN-TV Respublikos g. 198, Panevys 35185 Tel: (45) 464267 Email: pantv@takas.lt private, commercial Dir Saulius Bukelis. Raseiniu TV Vytauto Vilniaus 1A, Raseiniai 60187 Tel: (428) 54433 Fax: (428) 70422 Email: office@mirkliai.lt broadcast by V Raseini televizijos ir radijo centras. Dir Kstutis Skamarakas. iauli TV Liejyklos g. 10, iauliai 78147 Tel/Fax: (41) 523809 Internet: www.stv.lt private Dir Andrius edius.

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TV3 Nemenins pl. 4, Vilnius 10102 Tel: (5) 276-4264 Fax: (5) 276-4253 Email: postmaster@tv3.lt Internet: www.tv3.lt broadcasts own programmes (20% of schedule) in Lithuanian and English, and relays international satellite channels; private, commercial Dir Ramnas auikovas. Major Cultural Institutions Ministry of Culture www.muza.lt Lithuanian Institute www.lithuanianinstitute.lt Department of Cultural Heritage Protection www.heritage.lt Home of Lithuanian Art www.culture.lt European Cultural Programs Centre www.durys.org Young artists www.youngartists.lt Museums of Lithuania www.muziejai.lt Music Lithuanian National Philharmonic Michael Burns C04217397 108

www.filharmonija.lt Lithuanian Music Information and Publishing Centre www.mic.lt Lithuanian Music Performers Information Centre www.musicperformers.lt Theatre Theatre and Cinema Information and Education Centre www.theatre.lt Arts Factory www.menufaktura.lt Cinema Lithuanian Film Center www.lfc.lt Baltic Film Group www.bfg.lt European Union MEDIA Programme office www.mediadesk.lt Art Contemporary Art Centre www.cac.lt Lithuanian Artists' Association www.artistsassociation.lt Lithuanian Applied Decorative Arts

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www.tdaile.lt Photography Union of the Lithuanian Art Photographers www.photography.lt Dance Lithuanian Dance Information Centre www.dance.lt Lithuanian Dancesport Federation www.dancesport.lt Ethnic Culture Lithuanian Folk Culture Centre www.lfcc.lt Lithuanian Folk Artists Society www.lietuvostautodaile.lt Vilnius Ethnic Activity Centre www.etno.lt Literature/Books Website of Lithuanian Profesional Writers www.rasytojai.lt Books from Lithuania www.booksfromlithuania.lt Martynas Mavydas National Library of Lithuania www.lnb.lt

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Association of Lithuanian Publishers www.lla.lt

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