Lithuanian anti-corruption agency warns LRT governance reform risks bias and abuse

The Special Investigation Service (STT), Lithuania’s anti-corruption agency, has raised concerns over a government-backed draft law to reform public broadcaster LRT, warning that key provisions create risks of bias and potential abuse of discretion, LRT.lt reports.

In its anti-corruption assessment, the STT highlighted that certain clauses in the proposed legislation grant LRT’s governing board excessive discretionary powers, leaving room for selective or unequal enforcement. The agency singled out a provision that would require LRT’s board to approve participation in its channels and online platforms by individuals linked to other media outlets—without clearly defining who qualifies as a “media representative” or “public figure.”

The draft law, prepared by a ruling coalition working group, aims to overhaul LRT’s governance structure, including the rights, duties, and oversight of its management bodies. However, the STT warned that vague terminology—such as “media outlets” and “public representatives”—could lead to inconsistent interpretations, enabling the board to arbitrarily restrict access to LRT’s content.

Another contested clause would bar media owners, representatives, or those with conflicts of interest from appearing in LRT programming unless granted explicit board approval under its editorial policy. The STT argued that the lack of clear criteria for what constitutes a “conflict of interest” or “public status” risks creating unequal conditions, where some individuals could be systematically excluded while others gain preferential access.

“The board’s decisions would determine which external media owners, stakeholders, editors, hosts, commentators, or other undefined individuals could regularly participate in LRT programs, discussions, or commentaries—and which would face restrictions or outright bans,” the STT concluded.

The draft law has already faced criticism from international bodies, including the European Parliament and the Venice Commission. While the Seimas Culture Committee claims to have addressed problematic aspects in recent revisions, the STT’s assessment suggests lingering concerns over legal ambiguity and potential for abuse.

The ruling Liberal Movement faction had requested the STT’s review of the proposal, which remains under consideration by lawmakers.