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MOTION FOR A RESOLUTION (2026/2568(RSP))

On the attempted takeover of Lithuania’s public broadcaster and the threat to democracy in Lithuania

B-10-2026-0072

on behalf of the ECR Group · Rapporteur: Aurelijus Veryga

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Written by a language model from the full text only; every figure comes from the text. The paragraph links open the paragraph a statement rests on — check the text itself before relying on it.

This resolution addresses the attempted takeover of Lithuania's public broadcaster LRT and threats to democracy. It supports Lithuanian reforms to improve governance and accountability while safeguarding LRT's independence, and condemns Poland's 2023 public media takeover.

Key points

  1. Reaffirms that independence of public service media, combined with accountability and good governance, is a cornerstone of democratic societies.
  2. Notes the National Audit Office's findings on LRT shortcomings and the need for corrective measures to strengthen public trust and efficiency.
  3. Notes that LRT Council formation is constitutional and EMFA-compliant, but calls for clearer separation of management and supervisory functions and a stronger Council role.
  4. Encourages Lithuanian authorities to address audit recommendations transparently, including through internal rules on procurement, staffing, and accessibility.
  5. Acknowledges Member States' right to update governance arrangements, but stresses that primary oversight of LRT should be exercised by its Council as the highest governing body.
  6. Emphasizes that laws should not encourage opacity or lack of accountability; an inclusive legislative process on LRT management cannot be treated as an attack on freedom of speech.
  7. Stresses that amendments affecting appointment or dismissal of public media management should be based on clear, objective, publicly accessible criteria, ensure transparency, and protect from undue political influence.
  8. Recalls that EMFA does not prescribe specific voting systems but focuses on justified decisions, predetermined criteria, and judicial review.
  9. Underlines that changes to dismissal procedures, voting thresholds, or decision-making formats should be legally justified, proportionate, and assessed for unintended effects.
  10. Recalls that current Lithuanian law does not fully ensure transparent and accountable procedures for appointment and dismissal of the director general under Article 5 EMFA.
  11. Notes that draft amendments to the Law on LRT fall within national competences, but must comply with Article 5 EMFA.
  12. Recalls that the LRT Council is the highest governing body, but its powers are limited as significant authority remains with the director general.

Who is affected

  • Lithuanian authorities and LRT: must implement governance reforms, ensure accountability, and maintain independence.
  • Polish government: condemned for unlawful takeover of public media; called to reverse decisions and restore rule of law.
  • EU institutions: called to respect national competences and avoid hypocrisy in enforcing rule of law.

Figures and deadlines

  • 26 February 2026: deadline for parliamentary working group to submit proposals on LRT governance.

Legal basis: Article 2 of the Treaty on European Union