Lithuania moves to expand background checks for riflemen and applicants

Lithuania’s Parliamentary Committee on National Security and Defence (NSGK) has approved draft laws to strengthen the integration of the Lithuanian Riflemen’s Union into the state defence system, including expanded background checks for members and applicants, LRT reports.

The proposed amendments would require verification of riflemen’s and prospective members’ activities, personal connections, and other factors that could affect their reliability, vulnerability, loyalty, or potential threats to national security. Deputy Defence Minister Tomas Godliauskas clarified that checks would not apply to junior riflemen, with intelligence provided by the State Security Department (VSD) and other authorised agencies.

Gediminas Latvys, a representative of the Riflemen’s Union, noted the measure would initially cover 12,000 current members, excluding new applicants. He acknowledged the process would be time-consuming, with a phased rollout for existing members followed by systematic checks for newcomers. Currently, applicants only submit a criminal record certificate.

A separate proposal would amend the Martial Law Act to automatically incorporate Riflemen’s Union specialised units and commandant offices into the armed forces during wartime. These units, tasked with armed defence duties, would also undergo health assessments via the Lithuanian Armed Forces’ medical commission, with readiness overseen by the General Inspector of the National Defence System.

The laws are set to take effect in January 2027.