The European Commission against Racism and Intolerance (ECRI) today published its fourth report on Lithuania. ECRI’s Chair, Nils Muiznieks, said that, while there are positive developments, some issues of concern remain, such as the continuing absence of a law on national minorities and the situation of the Roma.

The Criminal Code was amended in 2009 to help combat racism more effectively. The Law on Equal Treatment now protects against discrimination also on grounds of national origin and language; the burden of proof is shared. Pedagogues have been hired in the Vilnius area to assist Roma children. It is no longer possible to detain asylum-seekers who have illegally entered Lithuania or overstayed. The State Border Guard Service cooperates with the UNHCR and the Red Cross Society to train border guards, have lawyers visit entry points and reception facilities and provide information on asylum.