News

Statement by the Minister of the Interior of the Republic of Lithuania Mr. Vladislav Kondratovič at the International Migration Review Forum interactive multi-stakeholder round table 2 on Tuesday, 5 May 2026.

Thank you, Chair,

Lithuania highly values the discussions of this Round Table.

We support its focus on protecting migrants and addressing serious crimes linked to irregular migration.

Migration routes are becoming more complex and more dangerous. Smuggling and trafficking networks adapt quickly.

They exploit instability, weak coordination and vulnerable people.

Our experience shows that migration management, border security and the protection of fundamental rights must go hand in hand.

Lithuania has strengthened its integrated border management system.

We fully respect international law and ensure access to protection.

We have improved coordination, risk analysis and information sharing.

This helps us respond better to changing migration patterns.

At the same time, we regularly review and improve our procedures.

We learn from our own experience, from court decisions and from good practices in other countries, as well as advice of humanitarian organizations.

We also place strong emphasis on cross-border law enforcement cooperation.

Following the irregular migration crisis caused by the Belarusian regime in 2021, Lithuania established coordination mechanisms.

These help manage migration risks and disrupt criminal networks.

Since then, we have moved from immediate crisis response to a more structured and sustainable system.

It covers border governance, protection and cooperation.

Together with regional partners and European Union agencies, we have developed joint investigation mechanisms.

These allow faster information exchange and more targeted action against migrant smuggling networks.

Lithuania remains firmly committed to fighting human trafficking and protecting victims of exploitation.

We have strengthened the legal framework.

We have expanded inspections in high-risk sectors.

We have also invested in specialised training for border guards, law enforcement officers and reception staff.

Ladies and Gentlemen, support for victims is equally important.

In close cooperation with civil society organisations, we provide assistance, protection and reintegration support.

This helps victims recover and rebuild their lives.

On return and reintegration, Lithuania seeks to ensure safe and dignified returns.

This applies to both voluntary and forced return.

It requires effective cooperation with countries of origin and transit.

It also requires practical measures to reduce the risk of re-exploitation.

Finally, we must address a particularly alarming trend.

Migration is being instrumentalized by state and non-state actors.

Such practices increase vulnerability, support criminal activity and undermine international trust and cooperation.

They must be clearly and collectively rejected.

Lithuania stands ready to continue working closely with partners.

Together, we must protect people on the move and promote safe, orderly and regular migration.

Thank you.