On Sunday, October 27, Lithuanians head to the polls in a pivotal parliamentary election that could reshape the nation’s political landscape. With rising costs of living and escalating security concerns regarding neighboring Russia, voters are poised to decide the future direction of the Baltic state.
Key Issues Driving the Election
For many of Lithuania’s 2.9 million residents, high inflation, deteriorating public services, and widening economic disparities are at the forefront of their concerns. Prime Minister Ingrida Šimonytė’s center-right coalition, in power since 2020, faces mounting dissatisfaction as inflation peaks above 20% and the healthcare system shows signs of strain.
Security remains a central issue for Lithuania, which shares borders with Russia’s Kaliningrad exclave and Belarus, a close ally of Moscow. Fears of conflict with Russia are palpable; a recent poll indicates that three-quarters of Lithuanians worry about a potential Russian attack. This anxiety underscores a public demand for strong defense policies.
The Voting Process
Lithuania employs a hybrid electoral system for its 141-seat parliament. Half of the seats are filled by direct popular vote, while the other half are decided through district-based run-off elections between the top two candidates. This structure often benefits larger political parties, giving the opposition Social Democrats an advantage as the final round approaches.
Polling stations open at 7 a.m. local time (0400 GMT) and close at 8 p.m. (1700 GMT), with results anticipated around midnight.
Opposition Leads in the Polls
The Social Democrats emerged as the leading party following the October 14 first-round vote, securing 20% of the ballots. They are followed by the ruling Homeland Union with 18% and the anti-establishment Nemunas Dawn party with 15%. Vilija Blinkevičiūtė, leader of the Social Democrats, has expressed intentions to form a coalition government with the For Lithuania party and the Farmers and Greens Union.
In a strategic move, the Social Democrats have pledged to support any candidate opposing the Homeland Union in run-off contests, intensifying the battle for parliamentary seats. If successful in forming a government, it is expected that Lithuania’s firm stance on Russia and robust defense spending will continue. The country’s defense expenditure is projected to reach 3% of GDP this year, placing it among NATO’s top six spenders.
Social Democrats’ Economic Pledges
While national security is critical, domestic economic issues have dominated the campaign. The Social Democrats have vowed to address growing inequality by increasing taxes on the wealthier segment of the population. The additional revenue is intended to bolster spending on healthcare, education, and social services, aiming to improve living standards amid rising costs.
A Potential Shift in Leadership
Sunday’s vote will reveal whether Lithuanians desire a change in leadership to tackle economic challenges while maintaining national security. As the ballots are counted, attention will focus on the Social Democrats’ ability to form a coalition and fulfill their promises of economic reform.
The election’s outcome will not only shape Lithuania’s domestic policies but also its role within the regional geopolitical landscape, especially concerning relations with neighboring countries and defense strategies on NATO’s eastern flank.
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Lithuanian election: What's at stake, who's leading, what happens next
cgtn.com
