Lithuania Weighs Travel Restrictions on Belarusians Over National Security Concerns
Vilnius – Lithuanian lawmakers are debating new legislation that could tighten travel restrictions for Belarusian nationals living in Lithuania, sparking a national conversation about security, civil rights, and administrative feasibility.
The proposed measures, currently under discussion in the Lithuanian Parliament, would allow authorities to revoke residence permits of Belarusians who frequently travel back to their home country. Supporters of the plan argue it is a necessary step to enhance national security amid ongoing geopolitical tensions.
“Restricting these return trips would help reduce the flood of back-and-forth travel and allow our security services to better monitor the relevant processes,” one official explained, according to Schengen.News.
Currently, many Belarusians residing in Lithuania fly home several times a year to visit family or attend to personal matters. If passed, the new regulations could significantly impact these individuals’ ability to maintain those connections without jeopardizing their legal status in Lithuania.
Interior Ministry Warns of Administrative Overload
Despite support from some political factions, Lithuania's Interior Ministry has pushed back against the proposal, warning that the restrictions could place an unnecessary administrative burden on government agencies tasked with enforcing and monitoring such rules.
“This could overwhelm institutions already managing high caseloads,” an Interior Ministry representative cautioned.
Critics Call for Nuanced Approach
Political analyst Vytis Jurkonis urged lawmakers not to overlook individual circumstances, emphasizing the complexity of the issue.
“These people often have legitimate reasons for travel, such as caring for sick parents or handling business obligations,” Jurkonis said. “We should be careful not to worsen the situation for those who are already in a vulnerable position.”
A Belarusian national living in Lithuania echoed this sentiment, stating, “Many of us are here for work. Going back home is sometimes necessary – not a threat.”
National Security Concerns Broaden
Jurkonis also highlighted that the concern extends beyond Belarusian nationals. According to him, Belarusian intelligence agencies have been targeting not only their own citizens but also Lithuanians and other EU nationals, including those from Latvia and Poland.
“Security risks should be addressed based on behavior, not just nationality or passport,” he noted, in an interview with LRT.
Irregular Crossings on the Rise
The debate comes at a time when irregular migration along Lithuania’s eastern border is increasing. According to Frontex, the European Border and Coast Guard Agency, the Eastern Land border – including the Belarus-Lithuania section – saw a 6% rise in irregular border crossings in February alone. Of the 962 individuals who entered the EU through this corridor, most were Ukrainians, Russians, and Sudanese nationals.
As Lithuania grapples with balancing human rights and security imperatives, the outcome of this legislative debate could have lasting consequences for thousands of Belarusians living in the country.
Source: Schengen.News
