Government sets NGO selection rules for mobilisation support

Lithuania’s Cabinet has approved procedures for selecting non-governmental organisations and reimbursing their operating costs during mobilisation, LRT reported.

The resolution, prepared by the Ministry of National Defence, establishes a clear process for choosing NGOs that will sign assistance agreements to help carry out mobilisation tasks.

Organisations will be assessed against mandatory criteria including their legal status, the lawfulness of their activities and their compliance with Lithuania’s national interests. They must also meet at least three additional criteria, such as experience providing assistance, available human and material resources, financial reliability and the ability to organise volunteer activities.

The resolution also sets out procedures for signing agreements, making decisions, reimbursing operating costs and managing documents.

Assistance agreements may be signed with several NGOs. In exceptional mobilisation situations, simplified procedures may be used to ensure the flexibility and effective response required.

According to the Ministry of National Defence, the rules are intended to ensure appropriate NGO selection, create favourable conditions for their involvement in carrying out vital state functions during mobilisation and establish a clear and efficient system for reimbursing expenses incurred during their activities.

The resolution defines an NGO as a public legal entity established on a voluntary basis, independent of the management of state or municipal institutions, and operating for the benefit of society or a group within it. Its purpose must not be to seek political power or pursue solely religious aims.