Is it safe to live in Lithuania in 2023?
Lithuania’s geopolitical location and NATO membership offer security, but the border areas are really tense and crime rates are approximately average in Europe. Travellers should exercise caution, especially near the Russia and Belarus borders, due to ongoing Russian aggression in Ukraine.
Is Lithuania in Russia hostility zone?
Lithuania is not in Russia’s immediate vicinity (except Kaliningrad area), but it is in a region where historical and geopolitical tensions have existed between Russia and NATO member states, which may influence its security dynamics.
Lithuania is a member of NATO (North Atlantic Treaty Organization), which is a military alliance of 30 countries, including the United States and many European nations. Under NATO’s Article 5, an attack on one member is considered an attack on all members. If Russia were to attack Lithuania, it would trigger Article 5, and NATO member states would consider it an attack on the alliance as a whole. In such a scenario, NATO could respond collectively with military force to defend Lithuania.
Source: https://www.rand.org/pubs/research_reports/RR1793.html
Lithuanians rate their safety (against Russia)?
At one-year mark of the war in Ukraine, survey revealed that while the tension and anxiety among Lithuanians due to the war have slightly decreased from 87% to 79% over the past nine months, the level of unease remained notably high.
Is there a lot of crime in Lithuania?
Not really, Lithuania is average by safety in Europe (26th place from 42 according to Europe crime index). Like any other country, Lithuania has areas with higher crime rates, but it is generally safe for travellers and residents. Here is a comparison:
As an example, Lithuania is safer than Portugal or Romania, but few points below Norway or Germany in terms of crime.
Should you avoid border areas with Russia and Belarus?
Yes, there is no immediate danger, but it is advisable to exercise caution and stay informed when considering travel to border areas between Lithuania – Russia and Lithuania – Belarus, as these regions are experiencing a sense of insecurity due to their geopolitical location and ongoing regional tensions.