Lithuania’s intelligence watchdog completes three oversight reviews with focus on human rights protection

Lithuania’s intelligence services underwent three separate oversight reviews last year, with a primary focus on safeguarding human rights and fundamental freedoms, the country’s intelligence watchdog reported on Thursday.

The State Intelligence Inspectorate, led by Nortautas Statkus, conducted one planned, one follow-up, and one unplanned inspection in 2025, according to its annual activity report presented to parliament. “The first review assessed the legality of intelligence operations authorised between 2022 and 2024—one of the most sensitive areas, where national security interests directly intersect with individual rights,” Statkus said.

Inspectors examined whether court requests for surveillance were justified, proportionate, and compliant with human rights standards, while also evaluating personal data handling. The review of the Second Operational Services Department (AOTD) found no violations of rights or freedoms, though an ongoing inspection of the State Security Department (VSD)—extended until late 2026 due to its scale and complexity—remains incomplete.

A second review confirmed that both the AOTD and VSD had fully implemented earlier recommendations on strengthening internal oversight mechanisms. The third, still underway, assesses the AOTD’s internal security protocols, including operational safety, information protection, infrastructure safeguards, and prevention of psychological harassment or mobbing.

Two additional inspections are planned for 2026: one examining how agencies utilise collected intelligence, and another verifying compliance with past recommendations on sharing intelligence with national security institutions.

The watchdog received 15 complaints in 2025—up from 11 the prior year—alleging potential abuses by intelligence officers. Four complaints triggered investigations, two of which were halted (one due to court proceedings, another withdrawn), while two were dismissed as unfounded. Three complaints fell outside the inspectorate’s jurisdiction, and two failed to meet formal requirements.

Statkus emphasised that sustained, independent oversight helps identify risks early and maintain high legal standards. However, he noted that despite increased funding, most allocations cover technical needs, leaving insufficient resources for staff salaries—a constraint on effective oversight.