The Venice Commission has released findings concerning proposed amendments to the Lithuanian National Radio and Television (LRT) law, highlighting the need for a comprehensive analysis and impact assessment prior to continuing with the legislative process. The commission emphasizes the importance of consulting with relevant stakeholders to ensure that the amendments are well-informed and consider the implications for public broadcasting in Lithuania.

In its recommendations, the commission suggests revisiting the funding model of the LRT to determine whether it adequately supports the activities of the public broadcaster. Additionally, it insists that the existing requirement for a qualified majority vote to dismiss the LRT’s general director should be retained. To prevent deadlock situations where votes are equally split, the commission also proposes the introduction of mechanisms that facilitate decisive outcomes in such cases.

The commission calls for enhanced independence guarantees for LRT council members, clear criteria for the premature dismissal of the general director, and the option to judicially appeal such decisions. These recommendations are crucial in ensuring the integrity and independence of public broadcasting in Lithuania, especially as the LRT faces increased scrutiny from political actors who may seek to limit its autonomy.