Lithuania
- Boundary Delimitation
- Direct Democracy
- Electoral Management
- Electoral Systems
- Legislative Framework
- Media and Elections
- Parties and Candidates
- Vote Counting
- Voter Education
- Voting Operations
- Voter Registration
Boundary Delimitation
BD01 Are constituencies delimited for election purposes?
a. Yes
Comments: Parliamentary, Presidential Elections and referendums are performed in specially created constituencies but the Municipal Elections are held according to administrative boundaries. For the organisation and conduct of elections, the territory of the Republic of Lithuania shall be divided into 71 single-member constituencies, taking into consideration the number of inhabitants in the constituency, the division of the territory of the Republic of Lithuania into single-member constituencies during previous elections to the Seimas, and the administrative-territorial division of the Republic of Lithuania
Source: Formation of Constituencies, article 9 Law on Elections to the Seimas, article 9(1)
Last updated: Wed, 11 Sep 2002 12:06:53 GMT
BD02 The authority responsible for final approval of the constituency boundaries is:
c. The Electoral Management Body
Source: Parliamentary Election Act, article 14(2)
Last updated: Fri, 30 Aug 2002 13:37:45 GMT
BD03 On what criteria are the boundaries drawn?
a. "Equality" of population
b. Respecting natural barriers
c. Compactness of constituencies
d. Conformity with local jurisdiction boundaries
e. Geographic size of district
Comments: For the organisation and conduct of elections, the territory of the Republic of Lithuania shall be divided into 71 single-member constituencies, taking into consideration the number of inhabitants in the constituency, the division of the territory of the Republic of Lithuania into single-member constituencies during previous elections to the Seimas, and the administrative-territorial division of the Republic of Lithuania.
Source: Law on Elections to the Seimas, article 9(2)
Last updated: Fri, 30 Aug 2002 13:39:41 GMT
BD04 If population is a criterion, which population figure is used?
a. Total population
Source: Parliamentary Election Act, article 9(1)
Last updated: Fri, 30 Aug 2002 13:40:42 GMT
Direct Democracy
DD01 Please provide information about the person completing the questionnaire.
a. Name and Title: Mr. István Csongor Nagy
c. Organisation: ACEEEO
e. Telephone: +36-70-3823653
g. Email: monarchia@yahoo.com
Last updated: 2006-11-15 14:45:43 UTC
DD02 Which forms of direct democracy, if any, are currently possible at the national level?
Please check the glossary for the definition of the following terms:
a. Mandatory referendum
b. Optional referendum
c. Citizens' initiative
d. Agenda initiative
Comments: Referendum Law art 5: "Consultative (deliberative) referendums may be held with respect to other issues of utmost importance to the State and the People, regarding which it is not necessary to hold a mandatory referendum, they are being proposed for a referendum by 300 thousand citizens having the right to vote or the Seimas."
Source: Law on referendum, 2002, article 4-5.
Last updated: 2006-11-17 10:35:37 UTC
DD03 What is the legal basis for mandatory referendums at the national level?
a. Constitutional
b. Specific laws/legislation
Source: Constitution, 1992, Section 9; Law on referendum, 2002.
Last updated: 2005-03-21 16:39:49 UTC
DD04 What is the legal basis for optional referendums at the national level?
a. Constitutional
b. Specific laws/legislation
Source: Constitution, 1992, Section 9; Law on referendum, 2002.
Last updated: 2005-03-21 16:40:40 UTC
DD05 What is the legal basis for citizens' initiatives at the national level?
a. Constitutional
b. Specific laws/legislation
Source: Constitution, 1992, Section 9; Law on referendum, 2002.
Last updated: 2005-03-21 16:41:01 UTC
DD06 What is the legal basis for agenda initiatives at the national level?
a. Constitutional
b. Specific laws/legislation
Source: Constitution, 1992, Section 9; Law on referendum, 2002.
Last updated: 2005-03-21 16:41:18 UTC
DD07 What is the legal basis for recalls at the national level?
e. Not applicable
Last updated: 2005-03-21 16:41:31 UTC
DD08 What is the legal basis for the administrative requirements for mandatory referendums at the national level? Tick as appropriate and specify the relevant constitutional, legal or regulatory provisions below.
a. Constitutional
b. Specific laws/legislation
Source: Constitution, 1992, Section 9; Law on referendum, 2002.
Last updated: 2005-03-21 16:44:44 UTC
DD09 What is the legal basis for the administrative requirements for optional referendums at the national level? Tick as appropriate and specify the relevant constitutional, legal or regulatory provisions below.
a. Constitutional
b. Specific laws/legislation
Source: Constitution, 1992, Section 9; Law on referendum, 2002.
Last updated: 2005-03-21 16:44:58 UTC
DD10 What is the legal basis for the administrative requirements for citizens' initiatives at the national level?
Tick as appropriate and specify the relevant constitutional, legal or regulatory provisions below.
a. Constitutional
b. Specific laws/legislation
Source: Constitution, 1992, Section 9; Law on referendum, 2002.
Last updated: 2005-03-21 16:45:16 UTC
DD100 What restrictions, if any, are there in relation to signature collection for an agenda initiative?
b. Ban on payment per signature
Source: Law on referendum, 2002, article 11.
Last updated: 2005-03-23 13:38:49 UTC
DD101 What restrictions, if any, are there in relation to signature collection for a recall?
f. Not applicable
Last updated: 2005-03-23 13:39:03 UTC
DD102 What form of checks are undertaken to verify signatures for a referendum?
a. All signatures checked
Source: Law on referendum, 2002, article 13.
Last updated: 2005-03-23 13:40:10 UTC
DD103 What form of checks are undertaken to verify signatures for a citizens' initiative?
a. All signatures checked
Source: Law on referendum, 2002, article 13.
Last updated: 2005-03-23 13:40:23 UTC
DD104 What form of checks are undertaken to verify signatures for a recall?
a. All signatures checked
Source: Law on referendum, 2002, article 13.
Last updated: 2005-03-23 13:40:35 UTC
DD105 Who is responsible for checking the signatures?
a. Agency/department responsible for the administration of direct democracy mechanisms
Comments: Central Electoral Committee
Source: Law on referendum, 2002, article 13.
Last updated: 2005-03-23 13:41:38 UTC
DD106 Which organisation(s), if any, is responsible for running non-partisan information or voter education campaigns to inform voters about the issue being addressed in a referendum?
g. Not applicable
Last updated: 2005-03-23 13:43:03 UTC
DD107 Which organisation(s), if any, is responsible for running non-partisan information or voter education campaigns to inform voters about the issue being addressed in an initiative?
g. Not applicable
Last updated: 2005-03-23 13:43:17 UTC
DD108 Which organisation(s), if any, is responsible for running non-partisan information or voter education campaigns to inform voters about the issue being addressed in a recall?
g. Not applicable
Last updated: 2005-03-23 13:43:30 UTC
DD109 What activities, if any, are undertaken as part of non-partisan information or voter education campaigns for a referendum?
h. None
Last updated: 2005-03-23 13:43:47 UTC
DD11 What is the legal basis for the administrative requirements for agenda initiatives at the national level?
Tick as appropriate and specify the relevant constitutional, legal or regulatory provisions below.
a. Constitutional
b. Specific laws/legislation
Source: Constitution, 1992, Section 9; Law on referendum, 2002.
Last updated: 2005-03-21 16:45:31 UTC
DD110 What activities, if any, are undertaken as part of non-partisan information or voter education campaigns for an initiative?
h. None
Last updated: 2005-03-23 13:44:01 UTC
DD111 What activities, if any, are undertaken as part of non-partisan information or voter education campaigns for a recall?
h. None
Last updated: 2005-03-23 13:44:14 UTC
DD112 Which of the following controls, if any, apply in relation to campaigning for or against the issue being addressed in a referendum?
g. None
Last updated: 2005-03-23 13:45:35 UTC
DD113 Which of the following controls, if any, apply in relation to campaigning for or against the issue being addressed in an initiative?
g. None
Last updated: 2005-03-23 13:45:46 UTC
DD114 Which of the following controls, if any, apply in relation to campaigning for or against the issue being addressed in a recall?
h. Not applicable
Last updated: 2005-03-23 13:46:15 UTC
DD115 What is the period during which these controls apply for a referendum?
c. Not applicable
Last updated: 2005-03-23 13:46:33 UTC
DD116 What is the period during which these controls apply for an initiative?
c. Not applicable
Last updated: 2005-03-23 13:46:44 UTC
DD117 What is the period during which these controls apply for a recall?
c. Not applicable
Last updated: 2005-03-23 13:46:55 UTC
DD118 Which campaigners, if any, are entitled to some forms of public assistance for a referendum? Specify in the “Comments” section below.
b. Selected campaign organisations
Source: Law on referendum, 2002, article 17.
Last updated: 2005-03-23 13:47:35 UTC
DD119 Which campaigners, if any, are entitled to some forms of public assistance for an initiative? Specify in the “Comments” section below.
b. Selected campaign organisations
Source: Law on referendum, 2002, article 17.
Last updated: 2005-03-23 13:48:37 UTC
DD12 What is the legal basis for the administrative requirements for recalls at the national level? Tick as appropriate and specify the relevant constitutional, legal or regulatory provisions below.
e. Not applicable
Last updated: 2005-03-21 16:45:49 UTC
DD120 Which campaigners, if any, are entitled to some forms of public assistance for a recall? Specify in the “Comments” section below.
f. Not applicable
Last updated: 2005-03-23 13:49:03 UTC
DD121 Which forms of public assistance, if any, are provided for a referendum?
Specify in the “Comments” section below.
b. Free media access
Source: Law on referendum, 2002, article 17.
Last updated: 2005-03-23 13:49:27 UTC
DD122 Which forms of public assistance, if any, are provided for an initiative?
Specify in the “Comments” section below.
b. Free media access
Source: Law on referendum, 2002, article 17.
Last updated: 2005-03-23 13:49:45 UTC
DD123 Which forms of public assistance, if any, are provided for a recall?
Specify in the “Comments” section below.
g. Not applicable
Last updated: 2005-03-23 13:49:58 UTC
DD124 If free media access is provided, what are the criteria for allocating broadcast time / printing space?
a. Equally
Source: Law on referendum, 2002, article 17 paragraph (1)
Last updated: 2005-03-23 13:51:00 UTC
DD125 Is the government permitted to campaign either in favour of or against any specific outcome to a referendum, initiatives or recall vote?
a. Yes
Source: Law on referendum, 2002, article 16-17.
Last updated: 2005-03-23 13:51:19 UTC
DD126 What restrictions or controls, if any, are there on media coverage of the campaign and/or issue during the relevant period?
a. N
Source: Law on referendum, 2002, article 17.
Last updated: 2006-11-15 14:45:43 UTC
DD127 What restrictions, if any, apply in relation to the individuals who can sign for a recall?
e. Not applicable
Last updated: 2005-03-23 13:52:00 UTC
DD13 When were direct democracy mechanisms first introduced into the legal framework at the national level?
Date (yyyy)
a. Mandatory referendum 1992
b. Optional referendum 1992
c. Citizens' initiative 1992
d. Agenda initiative 1992
Comments: In 1991 when Lithuania declared its independence from the Soviet Union there was a referendum on the independence. Consequently, Lithuanian law must have contained some provisions of direct democracy before 1992. Before the adoption of the new constitution in 1992, the Basic Provisional Law was adopted in 1990.
Source: Constitution, 1992, Section 9; Law on referendum, 2002.
Last updated: 2007-01-15 16:07:15 UTC
DD14 When was an administrative framework for direct democracy mechanisms first introduced at the national level? Date (yyyy)
a. Mandatory referendum 2002
b. Optional referendum 2002
c. Citizens' initiative 2002
d. Agenda initiative 2002
Source: Constitution, 1992, Section 9; Law on referendum, 2002.
Last updated: 2005-03-21 16:47:04 UTC
DD15 Who is responsible for managing the administration of direct democracy mechanisms at the national level?
b. Independent electoral commission
Source: Law on referendum, 2002, article 9.
Last updated: 2005-03-21 16:48:06 UTC
DD16 Does this agency/department also manage the administration of national elections?
a. Yes
Source: Law on referendum, 2002; Law on Elections to the Seimas, 1992 (lat amended 2000).
Last updated: 2005-03-21 16:51:02 UTC
DD17 Are mandatory referendums currently possible at first tier (regions/states/provinces, etc) authority level?
c. No
Last updated: 2005-03-21 16:51:32 UTC
DD18 Are optional referendums currently possible at first tier (regions/states/provinces, etc) authority level?
c. No
Last updated: 2005-03-21 16:52:04 UTC
DD19 Are citizens' initiatives currently possible at first tier (regions/states/provinces, etc) authority level?
c. No
Last updated: 2005-03-21 16:52:17 UTC
DD20 Are agenda initiatives currently possible at first tier (regions/states/provinces, etc) authority level?
c. No
Last updated: 2005-03-21 16:52:29 UTC
DD21 Are recalls currently possible at first tier (regions/states/provinces, etc) authority level?
c. No
Last updated: 2005-03-21 16:52:41 UTC
DD22 Are mandatory referendums currently possible at local (municipalities/districts/communes, etc) authority level?
c. No
Last updated: 2005-03-21 16:52:54 UTC
DD23 Are optional referendums currently possible at local (municipalities/districts/communes, etc) authority level?
c. No
Last updated: 2005-03-21 16:53:05 UTC
DD24 Are citizens' initiatives currently possible at local (municipalities/districts/communes, etc) authority level?
c. No
Last updated: 2005-03-21 16:53:16 UTC
DD25 Are agenda initiatives currently possible at local (municipalities/districts/communes, etc) authority level?
c. No
Last updated: 2005-03-21 16:53:26 UTC
DD26 Are recalls currently possible at local (municipalities/districts/communes, etc) authority level?
c. No
Last updated: 2005-03-21 16:53:39 UTC
DD27 What are the issues, if any, in relation to which referendums are mandatory at the national level?
a. Constitutional amendments
b. Adoption of international treaties
c. Transfer of authority to international bodies
Comments: Law in referendum, Lithuania, Article 4. paragraph (1) Referendums shall be mandatory with regard to the following issues: 1) on the amendment to the provision of Article 1 of the Constitution of the Republic of Lithuania that, “the State of Lithuania shall be an independent and democratic republic;” 2) on the amendment to the provisions of Chapter I of the Constitution of the Republic of Lithuania, “the State of Lithuania;” 3) on the amendment to the provisions of Chapter XIV of the Republic of Lithuania Constitution, “Amending the Constitution;” 4) on the amendment to the Constitutional Act, dated June 8, 1992, “On Non-Alignment of the Republic of Lithuania to Post-Soviet Eastern Alliances;” 5) regarding participation by the Republic of Lithuania in international organisations, should this participation be linked with the partial transfer of the scope of competence of Government bodies to the institutions of international organisations or the jurisdiction thereof.
Source: Law on referendum, 2002, article 4.
Last updated: 2007-01-15 16:07:15 UTC
DD28 What are the issues, if any, in relation to which referendums are optional at the national level?
j. Other (specify)
Comments: All issues not decided by mandatory referendums. Consultative (deliberative) referendums may be held with respect to issues of utmost importance to the State and the People, regarding those for which is not necessary to hold a mandatory referendum. The proposal for such a referendum can be made by 300.000 citizens having the right to vote or by Seimas (parliament).
Source: Law on referendum, 2002, article 4-5.
Last updated: 2007-01-15 15:55:55 UTC
DD29 Which issues, if any, are excluded from being the subject of referendums at the national level?
k. None
Source: Constitution, 1992, especially article 148.
Last updated: 2005-03-21 17:06:12 UTC
DD30 Which issues, if any, maybe the subject of sub-national referendums regulated at the national level?
e. None
Last updated: 2005-03-21 17:06:30 UTC
DD31 Who can initiate a referendum at the national level?
d. Legislative majority
e. Registered electors
Source: Constitution, 1992, article 9; Law on referendum, 2002, article 4-5.
Last updated: 2005-03-21 17:09:50 UTC
DD32 Who is responsible for drafting the mandatory referendum question?
d. Legislature
Source: Constitution, 1992, article 9; Law on referendum, 2002, article 4-5.
Last updated: 2005-03-21 17:10:18 UTC
DD33 Who is responsible for drafting the optional referendum question?
d. Legislature
Source: Constitution, 1992, article 9; Law on referendum, 2002, article 4-5.
Last updated: 2005-03-21 17:10:38 UTC
DD34 Which of the following, if any, are required to be included in the mandatory referendum question?
a. The title of the proposal
b. The numbers of the articles or paragraphs of the legal instruments to which changes are proposed
d. The full text of the proposal
Source: Constitution, 1992, article 9; Law on referendum, 2002, article 4-5.
Last updated: 2005-03-21 17:11:34 UTC
DD35 Which of the following, if any, are required to be included in the optional referendum question?
a. The title of the proposal
b. The numbers of the articles or paragraphs of the legal intruments to which chnages are proposed
d. The full text of the proposal
Source: Constitution, 1992, article 9; Law on referendum, 2002, article 4-5.
Last updated: 2005-03-21 17:11:49 UTC
DD36 Which institution(s) decides on the final form of the ballot text for mandatory referendums?
b. Independent electoral commission
Source: Law on referendum, 2002, article 10.
Last updated: 2005-03-21 17:12:39 UTC
DD37 Which institution(s) decides on the final form of the ballot text for optional referendums?
d. Legislature
Source: Law on referendum, 2002, article 4.
Last updated: 2005-03-22 09:44:45 UTC
DD38 What, if any, are the quorum requirements for a mandatory referendum to be valid? Please specify numbers/percentages.
a. Turnout quorum 50%
Source: Law on referendum, 2002, article 7-8.
Last updated: 2005-03-22 09:48:25 UTC
DD39 What, if any, are the quorum requirements for a optional referendum to be valid? Please specify numbers/percentages.
a. Turnout quorum 50%
Source: Law on referendum, 2002, article 7-8.
Last updated: 2005-03-22 09:49:04 UTC
DD40 What are the requirements for mandatory referendums to pass?
b. Qualified majority (specify % below)
Comments: However, for amending certain provisions of the Constitution a 75% majority is required. Other provisions of the Constitution are to be modified by simple majority of the registered voters. However, in certain other matters the simple majority of the participating voters suffices.
Source: Law on referendum, 2002, article 7-8.
Last updated: 2005-03-22 09:52:32 UTC
DD41 What are the requirements for optional referendums to pass?
a. Simple majority (>50%)
Source: Law on referendum, 2002, article 7.
Last updated: 2005-03-22 09:53:00 UTC
DD42 In which areas, if any, do regulatory provisions differ between a referendum and a national election?
Tick all that apply and specify below in the comments section.
f. Other
Comments: None.
Source: Law on referendum, 2002, article 2.
Last updated: 2005-03-22 09:53:46 UTC
DD43 When is the outcome of a mandatory referendum binding?
a. Always
Source: Law on referendum, 2002.
Last updated: 2005-03-22 09:54:06 UTC
DD44 When is the outcome of an optional referendum binding?
b. Under certain circumstances (specify below)
Comments: b) When the referendum initiated by the citizens or the parliament and does not relate to the amendment of any laws but it concerns issues of social importance.
Source: Law on referendum, article 2, 2002.
Last updated: 2006-11-17 10:35:37 UTC
DD45 Which types of issues can be proposed by citizens using the citizens' initiative process at the national level?
a. Constitutional amendments
b. Legislative proposals
Comments: Consultative (deliberative) referendums may be held with respect to issues of utmost importance to the State and the People, regarding those for which is not necessary to hold a mandatory referendum. The proposal to hold such a referendum can be made by 300.000 citizens having the right to vote or by Seimas (parliament).
Source: Law on referendum, 2002, article 7-8.
Last updated: 2007-01-15 15:55:55 UTC
DD46 Which types of issues can be proposed by citizens using the agenda initiative process at the national level?
a. Constitutional amendments
b. Legislative proposals
Source: Law on referendum, 2002, article 7-8.
Last updated: 2005-03-22 09:56:04 UTC
DD47 Which issues, if any, are excluded from being the subject of a citizens' initiative at the national level?
k. None
Source: Law on referendum, 2002, article 4-8.
Last updated: 2005-03-22 09:57:13 UTC
DD48 Which issues, if any, are excluded from being the subject of an agenda initiative at the national level?
k. None
Source: Law on referendum, 2002, article 4-8.
Last updated: 2005-03-22 09:57:31 UTC
DD49 Who may propose the registration of a citizens' initiative?
Please specify in the “Comments” section below.
a. A number of individuals
Comments: 15 citizens can register and 300 thousand signatures are required for announcing the referendum.
Source: Law on referendum, 2002, article 8-10.
Last updated: 2005-03-22 09:59:20 UTC
DD50 Who may propose the registration of an agenda initiative?
Please specify in the “Comments” section below.
a. A number of individuals
Comments: 15 persons
Source: Law on referendum, 2002, article 8-10.
Last updated: 2005-03-22 10:00:20 UTC
DD51 What material is necessary to accompany an application for registration?
a. Proposed title
c. Full proposed text
Source: Law on referendum, 2002, article 9-10.
Last updated: 2005-03-22 10:01:11 UTC
DD52 Who determines the title of a citizens' initiative?
a. Proponents of the initiative
Source: Law on referendum, 2002, article 7-10.
Last updated: 2005-03-22 10:01:36 UTC
DD53 Who determines the title of an agenda initiative?
a. Proponents of the initiative
Source: Law on referendum, 2002, article 7-10.
Last updated: 2005-03-22 10:01:50 UTC
DD54 Which, if any, of the following disqualify a proposed title of an initiative?
g. Other (specify)
Comments: No such provisions found.
Source: Law on referendum, 2002, article 7-10.
Last updated: 2005-03-22 10:02:29 UTC
DD55 Which services are provided by the agency/department responsible for the administration of direct democracy mechanisms before an initiative can be published?
d. Other (specify)
Comments: None
Source: Law on referendum, 2002, article 7-10.
Last updated: 2005-03-22 10:02:54 UTC
DD56 Under what circumstances is an initiative checked for constitutionality or legality?
a. An automatic check is part of the initiative process
Source: Law on referendum, 2002, article 10.
Last updated: 2005-03-22 10:03:20 UTC
DD57 If a check of the constitutionality or legality of an initiative takes place, who is responsible for undertaking it?
b. Independent electoral commission
d. Legislature
Source: Law on referendum, 2002, article 10 and 14.
Last updated: 2005-03-22 10:17:54 UTC
DD58 If a check of the constitutionality or legality of an initiative takes place, when does this happen?
a. After its registration, before the collection of signatures
Source: Law on referendum, 2002, article 10.
Last updated: 2005-03-22 10:04:02 UTC
DD59 Which institutions, if any, are given an opportunity to propose an alternative to proposals contained in a citizens’ initiative?
g. Not applicable
Last updated: 2005-03-22 10:04:24 UTC
DD60 At which stage in the initiative process, if at all, can alternative proposals be made?
d. Not at all
Source: Law on referendum, 2002.
Last updated: 2005-03-22 10:04:48 UTC
DD61 What happens when there is a valid alternative proposal?
e. Not applicable
Last updated: 2005-03-22 10:05:02 UTC
DD62 When an initiative proposal and an alternative proposal are put to the vote on the same day, what choices does the voter have?
f. Not applicable
Last updated: 2005-03-22 10:05:18 UTC
DD63 Who decides the final ballot text?
a. Proponents of the initiative
Source: Law on referendum, 2002, article 10.
Last updated: 2005-03-22 10:06:10 UTC
DD64 Once an initiative is qualified for the ballot, the vote on it takes place:
a. Within a certain time limit (specify)
Comments: The central electoral committee has to scrutinize the initiative in 15 days and then to submit it to the Seimas, which announces the date of the referendum that must be within three months but not earlier then two months.
Source: Law on referendum, 2002, article 13-14.
Last updated: 2005-03-22 10:15:17 UTC
DD65 Which of the following individuals/positions may be subject to the recall mechanism?
k. Not applicable
Last updated: 2005-03-22 10:18:37 UTC
DD66 What are the grounds upon which a recall may be launched?
f. Other (specify)
Comments: Not applicable
Last updated: 2005-03-22 10:19:16 UTC
DD67 What restrictions, if any, are there in relation to the time period in which an individual/position can be recalled?
a. Not applicable.
Last updated: 2005-03-22 10:19:32 UTC
DD68 If a recall qualifies for the ballot, when is it put to the vote?
d. Not applicable
Last updated: 2005-03-22 10:19:44 UTC
DD69 When does the election to replace an individual who has been recalled take place?
c. Not applicable
Last updated: 2005-03-22 10:19:59 UTC
DD70 If a separate ballot to replace an individual who has been recalled takes place, how soon after the recall ballot is it held?
a. Not applicable.
Last updated: 2005-03-22 10:20:13 UTC
DD71 Can an individual who is the subject of a recall stand on the ballot for his/her own replacement?
c. Not applicable
Last updated: 2005-03-22 10:20:24 UTC
DD72 How many verified signatures are required to start the formal decision-making stage for an abrogative referendum (optional)?
Indicate figures in the appropriate boxes. If more than one answer exists for any individual box, explain in the comment section.
a. Fixed number 300,000
Source: Law on referendum, 2002, article 7-8.
Last updated: 2005-03-22 10:21:07 UTC
DD73 How many verified signatures are required to start the formal decision-making stage for a rejective referendum (optional)?
Indicate figures in the appropriate boxes. If more than one answer exists for any individual box, explain in the comment section.
a. Fixed number 300,000
Source: Law on referendum, 2002, article 7-8.
Last updated: 2005-03-22 10:21:33 UTC
DD74 How many verified signatures are required to start the formal decision-making stage for a citizens' initiative?
Indicate figures in the appropriate boxes. If more than one answer exists for any individual box, explain in the comment section.
a. Fixed number 300,000
Source: Law on referendum, 2002, article 7-8.
Last updated: 2005-03-22 10:21:59 UTC
DD75 How many verified signatures are required to start the formal decision-making stage for an agenda initiative?
Indicate figures in the appropriate boxes. If more than one answer exists for any individual box, explain in the comment section.
a. Fixed number 300,000
Source: Law on referendum, 2002, article 7-8.
Last updated: 2005-03-22 10:22:20 UTC
DD76 What is the deadline, if any, for collecting the required number of signatures after a proposal for an abrogative referendum (optional) has been published?
a. Fixed time period (specify)
Comments: 3 months
Source: Law on referendum, 2002, article 11.
Last updated: 2005-03-22 10:23:07 UTC
DD77 What is the deadline, if any, for collecting the required number of signatures after a proposal for a rejective referendum (optional) has been published?
a. Fixed time period (specify)
Comments: 3 months
Source: Law on referendum, 2002, article 11.
Last updated: 2005-03-22 10:28:42 UTC
DD78 What is the deadline, if any, for collecting the required number of signatures after a proposal for a citizens' initiative has been published?
a. Fixed time period (specify)
Comments: 3 months
Source: Law on referendum, 2002, article 11.
Last updated: 2005-03-22 10:29:25 UTC
DD79 What is the deadline, if any, for collecting the required number of signatures after a proposal for an agenda initiative has been published?
a. Fixed time period (specify)
Comments: 3 months
Source: Law on referendum, 2002, article 11.
Last updated: 2005-03-22 10:30:12 UTC
DD80 What restrictions, if any, apply in relation to the individuals who can sign the proposal for an abrogative referendum (optional)?
a. Signatories must be registered
Source: Law on referendum, 2002, article 7-10.
Last updated: 2005-03-22 10:31:51 UTC
DD81 What restrictions, if any, apply in relation to the individuals who can sign the proposal for a rejective referendum (optional)?
a. Signatories must be registered
Source: Law on referendum, 2002, article 7-10.
Last updated: 2005-03-22 10:32:11 UTC
DD82 What restrictions, if any, apply in relation to the individuals who can sign the proposal for a citizens' initiative?
a. Signatories must be registered
Source: Law on referendum, 2002, article 7-10.
Last updated: 2005-03-22 10:32:32 UTC
DD83 What restrictions, if any, apply in relation to the individuals who can sign the proposal for an agenda initiative?
a. Signatories must be registered
Source: Law on referendum, 2002, article 7-10.
Last updated: 2005-03-22 10:32:51 UTC
DD84 How many verified signatures are required to start the formal decision-making stage for a recall?
Indicate figures in the appropriate boxes. If more than one answer exists for any individual box, explain in the comment section.
e. Not applicable Not applicable.
Last updated: 2005-03-22 10:33:56 UTC
DD85 What is the deadline, if any, for collecting the required number of signatures after a proposal for recall has been published?
c. Not applicable
Last updated: 2005-03-22 10:34:31 UTC
DD87 Where can proposals for an abrogative referendum (optional) be signed?
f. Other (specify)
Comments: At public places.
Source: Law on referendum, 2002, article 11 paragraph (9)
Last updated: 2005-03-23 13:28:09 UTC
DD88 Where can proposals for a rejective referendum (optional) be signed?
f. Other (specify)
Comments: At public places.
Source: Law on referendum, 2002, article 11 paragraph (9)
Last updated: 2005-03-23 13:29:38 UTC
DD89 Where can proposals for a citizens' initiative be signed?
f. Other (specify)
Comments: At public places.
Source: Law on referendum, 2002, article 11 paragraph (9)
Last updated: 2005-03-23 13:31:57 UTC
DD90 Where can proposals for an agenda initiative be signed?
f. Other (specify)
Comments: At public places.
Source: Law on referendum, 2002, article 11 paragraph (9)
Last updated: 2005-03-23 13:32:21 UTC
DD91 Where can proposals for a recall be signed?
g. Not applicable
Last updated: 2005-03-23 13:32:33 UTC
DD92 What information must signatories provide when signing the proposal for an abrogative referendum (optional)?
a. Signatories must provide identity/voting card number
c. Other (specify)
Comments: Name, Id or passport number, date of birth, permanent address, date of signing.
Source: Law on referendum, 2002, article 11 paragraph (1)
Last updated: 2005-03-23 13:34:40 UTC
DD93 What information must signatories provide when signing the proposal for a rejective referendum (optional)?
a. Signatories must provide identity/voting card number
c. Other (specify)
Comments: Name, Id or passport number, date of birth, permanent address, date of signing.
Source: Law on referendum, 2002, article 11 paragraph (1)
Last updated: 2005-03-23 13:35:24 UTC
DD94 What information must signatories provide when signing the proposal for a citizens' initiative?
a. Signatories must provide identity/voting card number
c. Other (specify)
Comments: Name, Id or passport number, date of birth, permanent address, date of signing.
Source: Law on referendum, 2002, article 11 paragraph (1)
Last updated: 2005-03-23 13:35:54 UTC
DD95 What information must signatories provide when signing the proposal for an agenda initiative?
a. Signatories must provide identity/voting card number
c. Other (specify)
Comments: Name, Id or passport number, date of birth, permanent address, date of signing.
Source: Law on referendum, 2002, article 11 paragraph (1)
Last updated: 2005-03-23 13:36:28 UTC
DD96 What information must signatories provide when signing the proposal for a recall?
e. Not applicable
Last updated: 2005-03-23 13:36:42 UTC
DD97 What restrictions, if any, are there in relation to signature collection for an abrogative referendum (optional)?
b. Ban on payment per signature
Source: Law on referendum, 2002, article 11.
Last updated: 2005-03-23 13:38:07 UTC
Electoral Management
EM01 Please provide the following contact information for the national electoral management body:
a. Name of Institution Central Election Commission
b. Full Address Gedimino 53, 01109 Vilnius, Lithuania
c. Telephone +370-5-2396961
d. Facsimile +370-5-2396960
e. Email rinkim@vrk.lt
f. Website Address www.vrk.lt
g. Name and Title of Chairperson/President Zenonas Vaigauskas
h. Information Officer Nijole Zemaitiene
i. Official language of the electoral law governing national elections Lithuanian
Last updated: Wed, 11 Sep 2002 11:55:14 GMT
EM02 Does this national electoral body have the responsibility for elections at:
a. National level
c. Local level
Comments: a.) Parliamentary, Presidential elections and Referendums c.) Municipal elections
Source: Law on Elections to the Seimas, articles 11-12 Law on the Central Electoral Committee (adopted in 20.06.2002), article 3.
Last updated: 2008-01-21 13:36:40 UTC
EM03 The national electoral management body reports to:
c. The legislature
Comments: In the request the petitioner has specified that item 13 of Article 67 of the Constitution establishes that the Seimas is entitled to the right only to form the Central Electoral Committee and change its composition. Article 5 of the Constitution runs that "the scope of powers of the State shall be defined by the Constitution", which means that the Seimas has no power to commission the Central Electoral Committee in any way. But the committee is accountable to Seima.
Source: Resolution "On the Formation of the Central Electoral Committee", adopted 25 March 1993, with the Constitution of the Republic of Lithuania
Last updated: 2008-01-21 13:36:40 UTC
EM04 The budget of the national electoral management body is determined by:
c. The legislature
Comments: Seimas sets the budget of state (including financing of the CEC).
Source: Law on the Central Electoral Committee, article 20 Law on the Structure of the Budget; Constitution of the Republic of Lithuania, article 67
Last updated: 2008-01-21 13:36:40 UTC
EM05 The expenditures of the national electoral management body are controlled by:
d. A national government department
Comments: The National Auditing Office.
Source: Vaidotas Bacevicius, Member of the Central Electoral Committee, bacevicius.vaidotas@gmail.com
Last updated: Wed, 11 Sep 2002 12:01:14 GMT
EM06 The term of the members of the national electoral management body is:
b. For a term of _________ years
Comments: The members of the Central Electoral Committee (CEC) and the Chairman of the CEC are appointed by the Seimas for a 4-years term. The Seimas shall form the Central Electoral Committee for a four-year period no later than 100 days and no earlier than 130 days in advance of regular elections to the Seimas. The Central Electoral Committee shall not be newly formed before early elections to the Seimas; it shall retain its powers until the Central Electoral Committee is formed before regular elections to the Seimas. >
Source: Law on Elections to the Seimas, article 12(2)
Last updated: 2008-01-21 13:36:40 UTC
EM07 The national electoral management body chairperson, or equivalent, is chosen in the following way:
a. Elected (specify by whom)
Comments: The Seimas shall appoint the Chairman of the Central Electoral Committee. The Chairman of the Central Electoral Committee as well as the members of the Committee who were appointed to the Committee by drawing lots must suspend their membership in any party of which they are members, and may not take part in the activities and carry out the instructions of parties or political organisations during the period of their work on the Committee. The Central Electoral Committee shall elect the Deputy Chairman and Secretary of the Committee during its meeting. The Deputy Chairman shall be elected from among the members who do not represent parties.
Source: Parliamentary Election Act, article 12(9-10)
Last updated: 2008-01-21 13:36:40 UTC
EM08 According to official sources, what was the estimated overall cost (in US dollars if available) of the most recent national elections?
a. estimated total: 3000000
b. Exchange rate used 4 litas/ USD
Comments: 3 000 000 USD
Source: Jurga Augustaityte chief specialist (May 2002)
Last updated: 2008-01-21 13:36:40 UTC
EM09 What was the total number of registered voters or, where there was no voter roll, the estimated number of eligible voters?
a. Total number: 2600000
Comments: The last Parliamentary election was held on 8 October 2000. were About 2.6 Millions voters were registered.
Source: www.lrs.lt
Last updated: 2008-01-21 13:36:40 UTC
EM10 What was the spending (in USD) per registered voter (NOT actual voters) or, where there was no voter roll, the estimated number of eligible voters at the last general elections?
a. USD/registered voter 1
b. Exchange rate used 4 LITAS/USD
Source: www.lrs.lt Vaidotas Bacevicius, Member of the Central Electoral Committee, vabace@lrs.lt
Last updated: 2008-01-21 13:36:40 UTC
EM11 What are the approximate proportions (%) of total election expenditure for the last national elections devoted to the following?
Comments: Salaries for Electoral Committee members: 2527,75 Preparations and maintenance of polling station: 492,75 Expenses on computerisation of elections: 150,5 Printing of posters: 302,5 Expenses on voting by post and abroad: 225
Source: Jurga Augustaityté, Member of the Central Electoral Committee, rinkim@lrs.lt
Last updated: 2008-01-21 13:36:40 UTC
Electoral Systems
ES01 How is the Head of State selected?
c. Directly elected in general elections (absolute majority with 2nd round if necessary)
Comments: The President is elected if he/she on the 1st round collects more than 1/2 votes and at least 1/2 of the voters participated. If less than 1/2 of the voters participated the winner has to collect 1/3 of all votes. If no candidate gets the majority of the votes there has to be a 2nd round - so called repeated voting. The winner of it has to get simple majority of the votes.
Source: Constitution of the Republic of Lithuania, article 81
Last updated: Thu, 12 Sep 2002 14:32:55 GMT
ES02 How is the Head of Government selected?
e. Appointed
Source: Constitution of the Republic of Lithuania, article 92
Last updated: Fri, 30 Aug 2002 15:28:36 GMT
ES03 Does the country have a president?
a. Yes
Source: Constitution of the Republic of Lithuania, article 77-78
Last updated: Fri, 30 Aug 2002 15:29:16 GMT
ES04 The national legislature consists of (one/two chambers):
a. One chamber
Comments: The Seimas shall consist of 141 representatives of the people who shall be elected for a four-year term.
Source: Constitution of the Republic of Lithuania, article 55
Last updated: Fri, 30 Aug 2002 15:30:22 GMT
ES05 What is the electoral system for Chamber 1 of the national legislature?
e. Parallel (Segmented) (PR Lists and Majoritarian constituencies)
Comments: The Seimas consists of 141 representatives who are elected for a 4 year term: 71 in single-member constituencies, 70 in a multi-member constituency. The two-round system is used for the single-member seats.
Source: Law on Elections to the Seimas, article 9 Constitution of the Republic of Lithuania, article 55
Last updated: Wed, 11 Sep 2002 11:20:45 GMT
ES06 What is the electoral system for Chamber 2 of the national legislature?
k. The national legislature consists of one chamber only
Source: Constitution of the Republic of Lithuania, article 55
Last updated: Wed, 28 Aug 2002 14:40:55 GMT
ES07 If List PR is used, is a highest average formula used?
c. Largest Remainder Method (Quota)
Source: Parliamentary Election Act, article 89
Last updated: Fri, 30 Aug 2002 15:31:44 GMT
ES08 What is the level at which seats are distributed in Chamber 1?
a. National level
b. Specially delimited constituencies
Comments: a) The 70 multi-member constituencies. b) The 71 single-member constituencies.
Source: Parliamentary Election Act, article 9
Last updated: Wed, 11 Sep 2002 11:22:16 GMT
ES09 What is the level at which seats are distributed in Chamber 2?
d. Not applicable
Comments: The national legislature only consists of one chamber.
Source: Constitution of the Republic of Lithuania, article 55
Last updated: Fri, 30 Aug 2002 15:32:47 GMT
ES10 Are special constituencies or seats reserved in Chamber 1 for specific groups, such as minorities, specific nationality or other groups?
b. No
Source: Vaidotas Bacevicius, Member of the Central Electoral Committee, vabace@lrs.lt
Last updated: Wed, 11 Sep 2002 11:25:56 GMT
ES11 If special constituencies or seats are reserved in Chamber 1, specify which interest groups, and the proportion of total seats reserved for:
e. Not applicable Na
Source: Vaidotas Bacevicius, Member of the Central Electoral Committee, vabace@lrs.lt
Last updated: Thu, 12 Sep 2002 14:34:25 GMT
ES12 Are special constituencies or seats reserved in Chamber 2 for specific groups, such as minorities, specific nationality or other groups?
c. The national legislature consists of one chamber only
Source: Constitution of the Republic of Lithuania, articel 55
Last updated: Fri, 30 Aug 2002 12:30:23 GMT
ES13 If special constituencies or seats are reserved in Chamber 2, specify which interest groups, and the proportion of total seats reserved:
e. Not applicable Na
Comments: The national legislature only consists of one chamber.
Source: Constitution of the Republic of Lithuania, article 55
Last updated: Fri, 30 Aug 2002 12:32:25 GMT
ES14 What is the legally imposed minimum threshold of votes required by a party to win seats in Chamber 1?
b. Specify the percentage:
Comments: Both alternative a.) and b.) are applicable: The minimum threshold of votes is 5% for candidates competing in a multi-member constituency. In the single-member constituencies there is no minimum threshold of votes as candidates are chosen by a simple majority of votes. If two of the candidates receive the same number of the votes the winner is the older one.
Source: Parliamentary Election Act, article 89
Last updated: Wed, 11 Sep 2002 11:27:57 GMT
ES15 What is the legally imposed minimum threshold of votes required by a party to win seats in Chamber 2?
c. Not applicable
Comments: The national legislature only consists of one chamber.
Source: Constitution of the Republic of Lithuania, article 55
Last updated: Fri, 30 Aug 2002 12:38:30 GMT
ES16 What is the legally imposed minimum threshold of votes required by a candidate (independent/party) to win a seat in Chamber 1?
a. No minimum
Comments: Simple majority, but at least 40% of voters must come to vote at the polling station.
Source: Parliamentary Election Act, article 88
Last updated: Fri, 30 Aug 2002 15:35:38 GMT
ES17 What is the legally imposed minimum threshold of votes required by a candidate (independent/party) to win a seat in Chamber 2?
c. Not applicable
Comments: The national legislature only consists of one chamber
Source: Constitution of the Republic of Lithuania, article 55
Last updated: Fri, 30 Aug 2002 12:40:42 GMT
ES18 Regarding the timing of the elections for Chamber 1, which of the following is true? Elections take place:
a. At fixed intervals (specify length)
Comments: 4-year intervals. The President sets proper date.
Source: Parliamentary Election, articles 1 and 6 Constitution, article 55
Last updated: Wed, 11 Sep 2002 11:30:33 GMT
ES19 Regarding the timing of the elections for Chamber 2, which of the following is true? Elections take place:
e. Not applicable
Comments: The national legislature only consists of one chamber.
Source: Constitution of the Republic of Lithuania, article 55
Last updated: Fri, 30 Aug 2002 12:53:46 GMT
ES20 Regarding Chamber 1 elections (excluding advance voting, postal voting, etc):
a. Voting takes place on one day
Comments: It is also possible to vote in advance at the post offices according to the Parliamentary Election Act, article 67.
Source: Parliamentary Election Act, article 62
Last updated: Thu, 12 Sep 2002 14:36:52 GMT
Legislative Framework
LF01 What is the status of the electoral law governing national elections?
a. Part of Constitution
b. Separate legislation
Source: Constitution, Law on Elections to the Seimas, Presidential Election Act and Municipal Election Act, Referendum Act.
Last updated: Thu, 12 Sep 2002 14:39:05 GMT
LF02 What is the date of the latest version of the national electoral law (including latest amendments)?
a. January 2000 or later
Source: Parliamentary, Presidential and Municipal Election Act
Last updated: Fri, 30 Aug 2002 15:39:40 GMT
LF03 The national electoral law covers:
a. National elections
c. Local elections
d. Referendums
Comments: Separate documents based on the regulation of the Constitution.
Source: Vaidotas Bacevicius, Member of the Central Electoral Committee, bacevicius.vaidotas@gmail.com
Last updated: 2006-11-21 19:46:56 UTC
LF04 Is voting on the national level voluntary or compulsory?
a. Voting is voluntary
Comments: a) Voting is treated as a right of a citizen.
Source: Law on Elections to the Seimas, article 2(1)
Last updated: 2006-11-21 19:46:56 UTC
LF05 Are there provisions in the law which permit or require regional and/ or local election (s) to be held on the same day as national elections?
a. National elections are not held on the same day as regional or local elections
Comments: Seimas sets the proper date of Municipal Elections which are held every three years. Seimas sets the proper date of Presidential Elections, which are held every five years. President sets the proper date of Parliamentary Elections, which are held every four years. Under these provisions (provided by Laws) sometimes, but quite seldom, these Elections can be held on the same day.
Last updated: Wed, 11 Sep 2002 11:37:43 GMT
LF06 Are there provisions in the law which permit or require presidential election (s) to be held on the same day as national legislative elections?
a. Presidential elections are not held on the same day as national legislative elections
Comments: Seimas sets the proper date of Presidential Elections, which are held every five years. President sets the proper date of Parliamentary Elections, which are held every four years. Under these provisions (provided by Laws) sometimes, but quite seldom, these Elections can be held on the same day.
Source: Presidential Election Act, article 49(1)
Last updated: 2006-11-21 19:46:56 UTC
LF07 What are the agency(ies) responsible for first level of formal electoral disputes?
b. EMB
Comments: The higher level Electoral Committee. These are Central, Constituency and Polling District Electoral Committees. Decision of the Central Electoral Committee might be appealed to the Parliament or the President, who can bring the case to the Constitutional Court. The decision of the polling district committee on the list of voters may be appealed to the administrative court /tribunal. The decisions of the Central Electoral Committee may be revised only by the Central Electoral Committee itself or by an effective court ruling.
Source: Law on Elections to the Seimas, article 86
Last updated: 2006-11-21 19:46:56 UTC
LF08 If the agency(ies) which settles formal disputes is/are specially appointed/elected; by whom?
h. Not applicable
Source: Vaidotas Bacevicius, Member of the Central Electoral Committee, vabace@lrs.lt
Last updated: Fri, 30 Aug 2002 13:51:23 GMT
LF09 Who has the right to submit cases to the person or agency(ies)which settles formal disputes?
a. Candidates
b. Parties
c. Voters
d. Foreign/International Observers
e. Other
Comments: e. Domestic Observers
Source: Parliamentary Election Act, article 86
Last updated: 2006-11-21 19:46:56 UTC
Media and Elections
ME02 Which of the following types of radio stations are present at a national level in your country?
a. Publicly owned
c. Privately owned
Source: http://www.ejc.nl/jr/emland/lithuania.html#2
Last updated: 2005-03-29 12:47:50 UTC
ME03 Which of the following types of television stations are present at a national level in your country?
a. Publicly owned
c. Privately owned
Source: http://www.ejc.nl/jr/emland/lithuania.html#2
Last updated: 2005-03-29 12:48:08 UTC
ME04 Which of the following types of daily and weekly newspapers are present at a national level in your country?
c. Privately owned
Source: http://www.ejc.nl/jr/emland/lithuania.html#2
Last updated: 2005-03-29 12:49:16 UTC
ME05 Which of the following do you believe best describes the print media situation at the national level in your country?
b. A single private newspaper holds a monopoly
Source: http://www.ejc.nl/jr/emland/lithuania.html#2
Last updated: 2005-03-29 12:50:01 UTC
ME06 What proportion of the population can receive transmissions of the national level programming of private radio stations?
a. Over 60%
Last updated: 2005-03-29 12:50:12 UTC
ME08 What proportion of the population can receive transmissions of the national level programming of private television stations?
a. Over 60%
Last updated: 2005-03-29 12:50:23 UTC
ME09 In your opinion, which of the following types of media in your country have a public reputation for being independent?
b. Private radio
d. Private television
Last updated: 2005-03-29 12:50:44 UTC
ME11 What laws, if any, guarantee freedom of access to public information for representatives of the media?
a. a
Source: Law on elections to the Seimas, 2004, article 51 paragraph (1).
Last updated: 2005-03-29 12:52:36 UTC
ME13 What are the laws, if any, which govern the operations of the public broadcaster?
Specify the date of the latest version (including latest amendments)
a. Mass Media Law and the Mass Media Implementation Law, 1996.
Source: Mass Media Law and the Mass Media Implementation Law, 1996.
Last updated: 2005-03-29 12:53:31 UTC
ME14 What proportion of the population can receive transmissions of the national level programming of the public television stations?
a. Over 60%
Last updated: 2005-03-29 12:54:39 UTC
ME15 What proportion of the population can receive transmissions of the national level programming of the national level programming of the public radio stations?
a. Over 60 %
Last updated: 2005-03-29 12:54:49 UTC
ME16 In your opinion, upon which types of media at national level in your country do citizens most rely as a source of information? Mark the most important source with 1, and the second most important source with 2:
a. Public radio
c. Private radio
d. Public television
f. Private television
g. Print media
Last updated: 2005-03-29 12:55:16 UTC
ME17 In your opinion, which of the following types of media in your country have a public reputation for being independent?
c. Public television
d. Private television
Last updated: 2005-03-29 12:55:31 UTC
ME18 What are the laws, if any, that provide for the safeguards for editorial autonomy in relation to the public broadcaster(s)?
a. a
Source: Mass Media Law and the Mass Media Implementation Law, 1996; Law on Providing Information to the Public.
Last updated: 2005-03-29 12:56:49 UTC
ME19 What are the laws, if any, which govern the granting of broadcasting licenses/frequencies to private broadcasters?
a. a
Comments: Mass Media Law and the Mass Media Implementation Law, 1996; Law on Providing Information to the Public.
Source: Mass Media Law and the Mass Media Implementation Law, 1996; Law on Providing Information to the Public.
Last updated: 2005-03-29 12:57:50 UTC
ME20 Who grants licenses/frequencies to private broadcasters?
b. Independent regulator
Comments: Redio and Television Commission
Source: Mass Media Law and the Mass Media Implementation Law, 1996; http://europa.eu.int/ISPO/peco/phare/Lithuani/liBroad.htm
Last updated: 2005-03-29 12:59:58 UTC
ME21 Who is allowed to hold broadcasting licenses?
b. Private companies
f. State owned companies
Source: Mass Media Law and the Mass Media Implementation Law, 1996; http://europa.eu.int/ISPO/peco/phare/Lithuani/liBroad.htm
Last updated: 2005-03-29 13:01:13 UTC
ME23 Are any journalists currently imprisoned or facing criminal charges for exercising their profession?
b. No
Last updated: 2005-03-29 13:04:02 UTC
ME24 What legal instruments are used to regulate media coverage of elections?
a. Law
b. Secondary legislation (e.g. regulations)
c. Voluntary agreement or self-regulation
Source: Law on the provision of information to the public, 1996; Mass Media Law and the Mass Media Implementation Law, 1996.
Last updated: 2005-03-29 13:05:33 UTC
ME25 Which of the following bodies or agencies has a responsibility in the regulation of media coverage of elections?
a. Statutory regulator (e.g. broadcasting licensing body)
b. Voluntary regulator (e.g. media council, journalists' ethics committee)
d. Legislature
e. Judiciary
g. EMB by law or regulations
Source: Mass Media Law and the Mass Media Implementation Law, 1996; Law on election to the Seimas, 2004.
Last updated: 2005-03-29 13:06:16 UTC
ME26 What form does the responsibility, if any, of the EMB to regulate media coverage of elections take?
b. Requiring balance in media news coverage of an election
Source: Law on elections to the Seimas, 1996, article 51.
Last updated: 2005-03-29 13:07:47 UTC
ME27 Does the EMB monitor media coverage of elections?
a. Yes
Source: Law on elections to the Seimas, 1996, article 51.
Last updated: 2005-03-29 13:08:24 UTC
ME28 What form does the authority, if any, of the EMB to enforce remedies or sanctions against the media in case of breach of the rules on media coverage of elections take
a. Enforcement of a right of reply, correction or retraction
b. Administrative penalty
Source: Law on elections to the Seimas, 1996, article 51.
Last updated: 2005-03-29 13:08:50 UTC
ME29 Do political parties or candidates have a right to have their replies to inaccurate or misleading media coverage published promptly and free of charge?
a. Yes
Source: Law on elections to the Seimas, 1996, article 51.
Last updated: 2005-03-29 13:09:09 UTC
ME30 What is the legal liability of the media if they report unlawful statements by candidates during election campaigns (e.g. defamatory or inflammatory speeches)?
a. Criminal prosecution
b. Administrative sanction
Source: Law on elections to the Seimas, 1996, article 51.
Last updated: 2005-03-29 13:09:28 UTC
ME31 Have the media or journalists' organisations adopted a code of ethics specific to elections?
Please send us a copy.
a. Yes
Source: http://www.ejc.nl/jr/emland/lithuania.html#2; Law on the provision of information to the public, 1996.
Last updated: 2005-03-29 13:10:02 UTC
ME32 If so, how well do you perceive this code of ethics to be respected?
a. Always respected
Source: http://www.ejc.nl/jr/emland/lithuania.html#2; Law on the provision of information to the public, 1996.
Last updated: 2005-03-29 13:10:42 UTC
ME33 Which body, if any, is responsible for regulating free or paid access of political parties or candidates to the media during election campaigns.
a. EMB
Source: Law on elections to the Seimas, 2004, article 51.
Last updated: 2005-03-29 13:11:19 UTC
ME34 Which of the following types of radio stations provide political parties with free broadcast time for national election campaigns?
a. Publicly owned
Source: Law on elections to the Seimas, article 51.
Last updated: 2005-03-29 13:11:51 UTC
ME35 Which of the following types of television stations provide political parties with free broadcast time for national election campaigns?
a. Publicly owned
Source: Law on elections to the Seimas, article 51.
Last updated: 2005-03-29 13:12:03 UTC
ME36 Which of the following types of daily and weekly newspapers provide political parties with free printed advertisement space for national election campaigns?
e. None
Last updated: 2005-03-29 13:12:18 UTC
ME37 What are the criteria for allocating free broadcast time and/or free printed advertisement space to political parties?
a. Equal regardless of size of party and previous performance
Source: Law on elections to the Seimas, article 51.
Last updated: 2005-03-29 13:13:04 UTC
ME38 What, if any, is the maximum amount that a political party is permitted to spend on paid advertising during a campaign period?
b. The law does not specify any limits on paid advertising
Comments: For example on the Parliamentary elections 2008 the maximum average amount for the political party in multi-member constituency is 4.000.000 Lt (1.160.000 Eur), and the maximum average in the single-member constituency is 80.000 Lt (23.000 Eur).
Source: Law on Financing of Political Parties and Political Campaigns, as well as Control over such Financing, 2004, article 16.
Last updated: 2005-03-29 13:17:22 UTC
ME39 Which of the following types of radio stations provide individual candidates (legislative) with free broadcast time for national election campaigns?
a. Publicly owned
Source: Law on elections to the Seimas, article 51.
Last updated: 2005-03-29 13:18:03 UTC
ME40 Which of the following types of television stations provide individual candidates (legislative) with free broadcast time for national election campaigns?
a. Publicly owned
Source: Law on elections to the Seimas, article 51.
Last updated: 2005-03-29 13:18:20 UTC
ME41 Which of the following types of daily and weekly newspaper provide individual candidates (legislative) with free printed advertisement space for national election campaigns?
e. None
Last updated: 2005-03-29 13:18:37 UTC
ME42 What are the criteria for allocating free broadcast time and/or free printed advertisement space to individual candidates (legislative)?
a. Equal regardless of size and previous performance
Source: Law on elections to the Seimas, article 51.
Last updated: 2005-03-29 13:19:00 UTC
ME43 Which of the following types of radio stations provide individual candidates (legislative) with paid broadcast time for national election campaigns?
a. Publicly owned
c. Privately owned
Source: Law on elections to the Seimas, article 51.
Last updated: 2005-03-29 13:19:53 UTC
ME44 Which of the following types of television stations provide individual candidates (legislative) with paid broadcast time and/or paid printed advertisement space for national election campaigns?
a. Publicly owned
c. Privately owned
Source: Law on elections to the Seimas, article 51-56.
Last updated: 2005-03-29 13:20:58 UTC
ME45 Which of the following types of daily and weekly newspapers provide individual candidates (legislative) with printed advertisement space for national election campaigns?
a. Publicly owned
c. Privately owned
Source: Law on elections to the Seimas, article 51.
Last updated: 2005-03-29 13:21:35 UTC
ME46 What are the criteria for allocating paid broadcast time and/or paid printed advertisement space to individual candidates (legislative)?
g. Not regulated: based only on the amount the candidate wishes to spend
Source: Law on elections to the Seimas, article 51-56.
Last updated: 2005-03-29 13:24:20 UTC
ME47 Which of the following types of radio stations provide presidential candidates with free broadcast time for national election campaigns?
a. Publicly owned
Source: 1996 Law on Presidential Elections, article 42 paragraph (1).
Last updated: 2005-03-29 13:27:45 UTC
ME48 Which of the following types of television stations provide presidential candidates with free broadcast time for national election campaigns?
a. Publicly owned
Source: 1996 Law on Presidential Elections, article 42 paragraph (1).
Last updated: 2005-03-29 13:28:37 UTC
ME49 Which of the following daily and weekly newspapers provide presidential candidates with free printed advertisement space for national election campaigns?
e. None
Last updated: 2005-03-29 13:28:52 UTC
ME50 What are the criteria for allocating free broadcast time and/or free printed advertisement space to presidential candidates?
a. Equal regardless of size and previous performance of candidateâs party
Source: 1996 Law on Presidential Elections, article 42 paragraph (1).
Last updated: 2005-03-29 13:29:11 UTC
ME51 Which of the following types of radio stations provide presidential candidates with paid broadcast time for national election campaigns?
a. Publicly owned
c. Privately owned
Source: 1996 Law on Presidential Elections, article 41-45.
Last updated: 2005-03-29 13:29:47 UTC
ME52 Which of the following types of television stations provide presidential candidates with paid broadcast for national election campaigns?
a. Publicly owned
c. Privately owned
Source: 1996 Law on Presidential Elections, article 41-45.
Last updated: 2005-03-29 13:30:22 UTC
ME53 Which of the following types of daily and weekly newspapers provide presidential candidates with paid printed advertisement space for national election campaigns?
c. Privately owned
Source: 1996 Law on Presidential Elections, article 41-45.
Last updated: 2005-03-29 13:30:38 UTC
ME54 What are the criteria for allocating paid broadcast time and/or paid printed advertisement space to presidential candidates?
g. Not regulated: based only on the amount the candidate wishes to spend
Source: 1996 Law on Presidential Elections, article 41-45.
Last updated: 2005-03-29 13:31:01 UTC
ME55 What, if any, is the maximum amount that a presidential candidate is permitted to spend on paid advertising?
b. The law does not specify any limits on paid advertising b:
Source: 1996 Law on Presidential Elections, article 41-45.
Last updated: 2005-03-29 13:32:48 UTC
ME56 What are the laws, if any, which govern the disclosure of campaign advertising expenditures by political parties and candidates?
a. ....... 1996 Law on Presidential Elections
Source: 1996 Law on Presidential Elections, article 44 paragraph (3).
Last updated: 2005-03-29 13:34:15 UTC
ME57 What, if any, is the maximum amount that a media outlet can charge parties/candidates for advertising during the campaign?
b. The law does not specify any limits b:
Source: 1996 Law on Presidential Elections, article 41-46.
Last updated: 2005-03-29 13:34:54 UTC
ME58 How does this maximum amount (identified in question C.15.1) affect the political participation of smaller or newly formed parties?
b. None b:
Last updated: 2005-03-29 13:35:15 UTC
ME59 Are televised debates between candidates or party representatives normally conducted?
a. Yes, in presidential elections
b. Yes, in legislative elections
Last updated: 2005-03-29 13:35:58 UTC
ME61 Which of the following information in reporting the results of opinion polls are required to be disclosed by law?
g. None
Last updated: 2005-03-29 13:36:30 UTC
ME62 What is the blackout period, if any, during which results of pre-election opinion polls may not be released to the public?
a. 1 day
Comments: 30 hours before the beginning of an election and on the election day until the closing of the polls.
Source: Law on elections to the Seimas, article 56.
Last updated: 2005-03-29 13:40:26 UTC
ME63 Where, if at all, may exit polls be carried out?
b. Outside the polling station
Last updated: 2005-03-29 13:41:17 UTC
ME64 If exit polls are permitted, when can the results be disseminated via the media?
e. Not applicable
Last updated: 2005-03-29 13:41:42 UTC
ME65 When are the media, by law, allowed to report preliminary election results?
b. After all polls close, before official results are available
Last updated: 2005-03-29 13:42:03 UTC
ME66 Are the media allowed to project/predict winners before the final results are available?
b. No
Last updated: 2005-03-29 13:42:21 UTC
ME67 What resources does the EMB have for its work with the media?
b. A press officer
Last updated: 2005-03-29 13:43:04 UTC
ME68 Have staff responsible for media relations received training for this work?
b. No
Last updated: 2005-03-29 13:43:18 UTC
ME69 Which of the following has the EMB produced or organised?
b. Press releases
c. Press conferences/briefings
e. Web site
Last updated: 2005-03-29 13:43:40 UTC
ME70 Has the EMB provided or facilitated training for journalists in how the electoral process works?
b. No
Last updated: 2005-03-29 13:43:57 UTC
ME71 Which of the following types of radio stations, provide free broadcast time to the EMB for voter information campaigns?
e. None
Last updated: 2005-03-29 13:44:19 UTC
ME72 Which of the following television stations provide free broadcast time to the EMB for voter information campaigns?
e. None
Last updated: 2005-03-29 13:44:32 UTC
ME73 Which of the following daily and weekly newspapers provide free print space to the EMB for voter information campaigns?
e. None
Last updated: 2005-03-29 13:44:55 UTC
ME74 Which of the following types of radio stations provide paid broadcast time to the EMB for voter information campaigns?
e. None
Last updated: 2005-03-29 13:45:20 UTC
ME75 Which of the following types of television stations provide paid broadcast time to the EMB for voter information campaigns?
e. None
Last updated: 2005-03-29 13:45:34 UTC
ME76 Which of the following types of daily and weekly newspapers provide paid broadcast time or print space to the EMB for voter information campaigns?
e. None
Last updated: 2005-03-29 13:45:45 UTC
ME77 What steps does the EMB take to make sure that it is communicating its message to the media?
e. None of the above
Last updated: 2005-03-29 13:46:02 UTC
Parties and Candidates
PC01 What are the registration requirements for political parties running for national elections (Chamber 1)?
b. Deposit requirement (specify amount)
e. Minimum number of candidates
Comments: b.) 1 AMW per candidate on the list (this means one monthly wage, that is equal to 2052 Litas and approximately 594 EUR at the moment) e.) 25 candidates is the minimum (141 is the maximum which is the number of the candidates in the Seimas)
Source: Law on Elections to the Seimas, articles 37-39, 41
Last updated: 2006-11-15 13:21:23 UTC
PC02 What are the registration requirements for political parties running for national elections (Chamber 2)?
g. Not applicable
Comments: The national legislature only consists of one chamber.
Source: Constitution of the Republic of Lithuania, article 55
Last updated: Fri, 30 Aug 2002 14:26:17 GMT
PC03 What are the legal qualifications to become a candidate at legislative elections (Chamber 1)?
a. Age
b. Citizenship
d. Residence
f. Registration
Comments: a.) 25 years old. d.) Permanent residence in Lithuania.
Source: Law on Elections to the Seimas, article 2
Last updated: 2006-11-15 13:21:23 UTC
PC04 What are the legal qualifications to become a candidate at legislative elections (Chamber 2)?
k. Not applicable
Comments: The national legislature only consists of one chamber.
Source: Constitution of the Republic of Lithuania, article 55
Last updated: Fri, 30 Aug 2002 14:28:57 GMT
PC05 What are the legal qualifications for becoming a candidate at presidential elections?
a. Age
b. Citizenship
d. Residence
f. Registration
Comments: a.) 40 years old. d.) Must have lived in Lithuania for at least the past 3 years.
Source: Constitution of the Republic of Lithuania, article 78 The Right to Candidacy for the Office of President of the Republic, article 2(1-2)
Last updated: 2006-11-15 13:21:23 UTC
PC06 What can disqualify a candidate at legislative elections?
a. Current criminal incarceration
c. Criminal record
e. Offences against electoral law
f. Holding of military office
k. Mental health problems
l. Multiple Citizenship
n. Holding of other public offices (police etc.)
Source: Vaidotas Bacevicius, Member of the Central Electoral Committee, vabace@lrs.lt
Last updated: Fri, 30 Aug 2002 14:31:57 GMT
PC07 What can disqualify a candidate at presidential elections?
a. Current criminal incarceration
c. Criminal record
e. Offences against electoral law
f. Holding of military office
k. Mental health problems
l. Multiple Citizenship
n. Holding of other public offices (police etc.)
Source: Parliamentary Election Act, article 2 Vaidotas Bacevicius, Member of the Central Electoral Committee, vabace@lrs.lt
Last updated: 2006-11-15 13:21:23 UTC
PC08 Can independent candidates compete in presidential or legislative elections?
e. In both presidential and legislative elections
Source: Presidential Electoral Act, article 31(1) Law on Elections to the Seimas, article 37(1-2)
Last updated: 2006-11-15 13:21:23 UTC
PC09 If independent candidates can compete in legislative elections (Chamber 1), what are the registration requirements?
a. Signature requirement (specify)
b. Deposit requirement (specify)
Comments: a.) 1000 signatures b.) 1 AMW = 1100 Litas = approximately 318 Euros ~ 318 USD
Source: Parliamentary Election Act, article 38
Last updated: 2006-11-15 13:21:23 UTC
PC10 If independent candidates can compete in legislative elections (Chamber 2), what are the registration requirements?
e. Not applicable
Comments: The national legislature only consists of one chamber.
Source: Constitution of the Republic of Lithuania, article 55
Last updated: Fri, 30 Aug 2002 14:36:38 GMT
PC11 If independent candidates can compete in presidential elections, what are the registration requirements?
a. Signature requirement (specify)
b. Deposit requirement (specify)
Comments: a.) 20.000 signatures b.) Deposit 5 AMWs = 5500 Litas (approximately 1594 Euros). Deposit shall be returned when signatures are provided.
Source: Vaidotas Bacevicius, Member of the Central Electoral Committee, vabace@lrs.lt
Last updated: 2006-11-15 13:21:23 UTC
PC12 Do political parties receive direct/indirect public funding?
b. Direct
c. Indirect
Comments: b.) Campaigns shall be financed from State funds as well as from the funds raised by political parties and political organisations, and citizens and candidates to the office of President of the Republic and which shall be accumulated in special accounts for Elections of the President of the Republic in the Savings Bank of Lithuania as well as its branches. c.) Campaigns shall also be financed from the State funds. A candidate, a party shall not pay for the time allotted to them on state, municipal radio and television under this Law, for the printing of campaign poster for a candidate in a single-member constituency, also for publishing an election program, lists of candidates in newspapers, and these expenditures shall not change the maximum permitted amount in the special election account.
Source: Law on Elections to the Seimas, 2000 , article 51; Law on Financing of Political Parties and Political Campaigns, as well as Control over such Financing article 13;15
Last updated: 2006-11-15 13:21:23 UTC
PC13 If political parties receive direct/indirect public funding, when do they receive this?
c. As related to the election period and between elections
Comments: Political parties represented in the Seimas are entitled to direct funding annually (the calculated amount is divided into 2 equal installments).
Source: Law on Political Parties, article 13 Law on Elections to the Seimas, article 55(4)
Last updated: 2006-11-15 13:21:23 UTC
PC14 If political parties receive indirect public funding, identify the type of funding:
a. Free media access
b. Tax credits
d. Other
Comments: Campaigning shall be financed from the State funds. A candidate, a party shall not pay for the time allotted to them on state, municipal radio and television under this Law, for the printing of campaign poster for a candidate in a single-member constituency, also for publishing an election program, lists of candidates in newspapers, and these expenditures shall not change the maximum permitted amount in the special election account. The items and services of campaigning the cost of which is more than 0.5 AMW (average monthly wage) may not be provided free of charge.
Source: Law on Seimas Election, article 55
Last updated: 2006-11-15 13:21:23 UTC
PC15 What is the basis of the public funding?
b. Based on result of previous election
Comments: The threshold for receiving direct public funding is representation in the Seimas. Indirect funding is equal.
Source: Law on Financing of Political Parties and Political Campaigns, as well as Control over such Financing, 2004, article 13; 15.
Last updated: 2006-11-15 13:21:23 UTC
PC16 If political parties receive public funding, what is the specified purpose?
a. General party administration
b. Election campaign activities
Source: Law on Political Parties, article 12 Law on Election to the Seimas, article 55(4) Law on Presidential Elections, article 44(1)
Last updated: 2006-11-15 13:21:23 UTC
PC17 Are political parties entitled to private funding?
a. Yes
Comments: Those who desire to support a list of candidates or a candidate must do this by transferring funds to special election accounts.
Source: Law on Financing of Political Parties and Political Campaigns, as well as Control over such Financing, 2004, article 10; 11; 12.
Last updated: 2006-11-15 13:21:23 UTC
PC18 If political parties are entitled to private funding, for what period?
c. As related to the election period and between elections
Source: Vaidotas Bacevicius, Member of the Central Electoral Committee, vabace@lrs.lt
Last updated: Fri, 30 Aug 2002 14:47:10 GMT
PC19 Which of the following party financing provisions are applicable?
a. Public disclosure of party contributions received
b. Public disclosure of party expenditure
c. Prohibition on party funding from foreign sources
e. Ceilings on party election expenses
h. Publication or public access to contribution and / or expenditure reports
Comments: The use of funds allocated for campaigning shall be controlled by tax inspectorates and the Central Electoral Committee. Parties must file with the Central Electoral Committee reports of the form established by the Central Electoral Committee on the sources of funds and their use for campaigning not later than within 25 days following the announcement of final election results. The Central Electoral Committee shall publish these reports in the Valstybes zinios (The official Gazette). The candidates of single-member constituencies shall, not later than within 15 days following the announcement of final election results, file with the Central Electoral Committee in the manner specified by it reports of the prescribed form. The maximum amount of money permitted for campaigning shall be in the amount of 50 AMWs for an individual candidate in a one-candidate electoral area and 1,000 AMWs for a list of candidates in a multi-candidate electoral area.
Source: Law on Elections to the Seimas, article 54(1) and 55(5)
Last updated: 2006-11-15 13:21:23 UTC
PC20 Which of the following candidate financing provisions are applicable?
a. Public disclosure of candidate contributions received
b. Public disclosure of candidate expenditure
c. Prohibition on candidate funding from foreign sources
d. Ceilings on how much money a candidate can raise
e. Ceilings on candidate election expenses
h. Publication or public access to contribution and / or expenditure reports
Comments: The use of funds allocated for campaigning shall be controlled by tax inspectorates and the Central Electoral Committee. Parties must file with the Central Electoral Committee reports of the form established by the Central Electoral Committee on the sources of funds and their use for campaigning not later than within 25 days following the announcement of final election results. The Central Electoral Committee shall publish these reports in the Valstybes zinios (The official Gazette). The candidates of single-member constituencies shall, not later than within 15 days following the announcement of final election results, file with the Central Electoral Committee in the manner specified by it reports of the prescribed form.
Source: Parliamentarian Election Act, article 55(5)
Last updated: 2006-11-15 13:21:23 UTC
PC21 Who is responsible for administering and enforcing party income/funding regulations at national level?
a. National Electoral Management body
c. Government department
Comments: c.) The Tax Office
Source: Parliamentary Election Act, article 55(5) Law on Political Parties, article 13
Last updated: 2006-11-15 13:21:23 UTC
Vote Counting
VC01 What are the characteristics of ballots used at national legislative elections (Chamber 1)?
a. Single ballot (all registered parties listed)
d. Categorical (only one mark allowed)
e. Ability to vote for candidates within parties (personal vote)
g. Different ballots used in different constituencies
l. No photos or logos, only party and/or candidate names
n. Random listing (lottery)
o. Ballots signed or otherwise authenticated by polling station official
Comments: d.) For one political party. g.) The format and design is the same, only the candidates and the parties may differ.
Source: Parliamentary Election Act, article 58(1-5)
Last updated: Fri, 30 Aug 2002 14:53:28 GMT
VC02 What are the characteristics of ballots used at national legislative elections (Chamber 2)?
s. Not applicable
Comments: The national legislature only consists of one chamber.
Source: Constitution of the Republic of Lithuania, article 55
Last updated: Fri, 30 Aug 2002 14:54:17 GMT
VC03 What are the characteristics of ballots used at presidential elections?
a. Single ballot (all registered parties/candidates listed)
d. Categorical (only possible to make one mark)
f. Same ballot papers used nation-wide
l. No photos or logos, only party and/or candidate names
o. Ballots signed or otherwise authenticated by polling station officials
Source: Presidential Elections Act, article 46(1)
Last updated: Thu, 12 Sep 2002 15:39:20 GMT
VC04 Following the close of the voting, where are the votes first sorted and counted?
a. At the polling stations
Source: Law on Elections to the Seimas, article 76
Last updated: Fri, 30 Aug 2002 14:55:44 GMT
VC05 What procedures are used in the initial count?
t. Other
Source: Parliamentary Election Act, articles 77(6), 78 and 82
Last updated: Wed, 11 Sep 2002 12:55:43 GMT
VC06 Following the sorting and counting, to where are the results first transmitted for consolidation?
d. Regional level (specify whether it is constituency/ province/ state/ department/other)
Comments: d.) Constituency level.
Source: Parliamentary Election Act, article 82
Last updated: Fri, 30 Aug 2002 14:57:12 GMT
VC07 At what levels are seats allocated?
c. Regional level (specify whether it is constituency/ province/ state/ department/other)
d. National level
Comments: Constituency
Source: Parliamentary Election Act, article 9
Last updated: Thu, 12 Sep 2002 15:40:39 GMT
VC08 How are the initial/preliminary polling results transmitted and communicated to the different levels?
b. By telephone
g. Internet
Comments: Preliminary results are transported physically at a later stage -within 12 hours. They are transported from polling stations to District Electoral Committees.
Source: Vaidotas Bacevicius, Member of the Central Electoral Committee, vabace@lrs.lt
Last updated: Wed, 11 Sep 2002 17:17:52 GMT
VC10 If the polling results are physically transported, what security measures are used?
b. Tamper proof bags
c. Signatures on sealed envelopes
d. Transported in boxes sealed with numbered seals
e. Accompanied by election officials
Source: Vaidotas Bacevicius, Member of the Central Electoral Committee, vabace@lrs.lt
Last updated: Fri, 30 Aug 2002 14:59:30 GMT
VC11 Under what conditions are ballots recounted?
d. By request
e. Court order
Source: Law on Elections to the Seimas, article 77-5; 82-6; 86-4;6
Last updated: Fri, 30 Aug 2002 15:00:00 GMT
VC12 If automatically recounted, what is the trigger?
e. Not applicable
Source: Vaidotas Bacevicius, Member of the Central Electoral Committee, vabace@lrs.lt
Last updated: Fri, 30 Aug 2002 15:00:36 GMT
VC13 If ballots are recounted by request, who can make the request?
a. Political parties
b. An individual candidate
c. Election officials
d. Domestic observers
e. International observers
Source: Parliamentary Election Act, article 82(6)
Last updated: Wed, 11 Sep 2002 12:58:41 GMT
VC14 If recounted, who conducts the recount?
a. National Election Management body
b. Regional Election Management body
Source: Parliamentary Election Act, articles 82(6) and 86
Last updated: Wed, 11 Sep 2002 12:59:39 GMT
VC15 Are preliminary results announced?
a. Yes
Source: Parliamentary Election Act, article 85
Last updated: Wed, 11 Sep 2002 13:00:42 GMT
VC16 If preliminary results are announced, how long after the close of polls is this done?
a. hours: 7
Comments: 5-7 hours
Source: Vaidotas Bacevicius, Member of the Central Electoral Committee, vabace@lrs.lt
Last updated: Fri, 30 Aug 2002 15:02:55 GMT
VC17 Is there a legal requirement for the declaration of the officially certified results?
a. Yes
Comments: The Central Electoral Committee shall establish the final election results after it has investigated all complaints and established all election results in the constituency, including the votes from those who have voted on ships and abroad.
Source: Parliamentary Election Act, article 93(1-2)
Last updated: Wed, 11 Sep 2002 17:26:15 GMT
VC18 How long after the close of polls is the certified results publicly announced? (if there is no legal requirement enter the average time)
b. days:
Comments: b.) Seven days The Central Electoral Committee shall proclaim the final election results not later than within 7 days following the election. It shall first of all announce these results in the Internet and shall publish in the next issue of the Valstybes zinios (the Official Gazette).
Source: Parliamentary Election Act, article 93
Last updated: Wed, 11 Sep 2002 17:26:43 GMT
Voter Education
VE01 Who conducts voter education and information campaigns at the national elections (informing where, when and how to register and vote)?
a. National Electoral Management Body
b. Regional Electoral Management Bodies
c. Local/County Electoral Management Bodies
i. Media
Source: Vaidotas Bacevicius, Member of the Central Electoral Committee, bacevicius.vaidotas@gmail.com
Last updated: Fri, 30 Aug 2002 13:58:48 GMT
VE02 At the national level, how often are voter education programs conducted?
b. Election time only
Source: Vaidotas Bacevicius, Member of the Central Electoral Committee, bacevicius.vaidotas@gmail.com
Last updated: Fri, 30 Aug 2002 13:59:18 GMT
VE03 Is there a national civic education campaign (rights and responsibilities of citizens)?
b. Yes, conducted by the National Electoral Management Body
c. Yes, conducted by the Regional Electoral Management Bodies
d. Yes, conducted by the Local/County Electoral Management Bodies
Source: Vaidotas Bacevicius, Member of the Central Electoral Committee, bacevicius.vaidotas@gmail.com
Last updated: Fri, 30 Aug 2002 13:59:50 GMT
VE04 What types of voter education activities were carried out at the most recent national elections?
a. Poster/ Billboard campaigns
b. Media advertisement
c. Simulation exercises
g. Internet
Source: Vaidotas Bacevicius, Member of the Central Electoral Committee, vabace@lrs.lt
Last updated: Fri, 30 Aug 2002 14:00:22 GMT
Voting Operations
VO01 Approximately what percentage (on the basis of cost) of election day supplies and equipment are obtained or produced within the country?
a. 91-100%
Comments: 100%
Source: Vaidotas Bacevicius, Member of the Central Electoral Committee, vabace@lrs.lt
Last updated: Fri, 30 Aug 2002 14:12:52 GMT
VO02 Is there a code of conduct for election officials?
b. No
Source: Vaidotas Bacevicius, Member of the Central Electoral Committee, vabace@lrs.lt
Last updated: Fri, 30 Aug 2002 14:13:20 GMT
VO03 Where can electors vote?
a. At a specified polling station in the locality where they are registered at national elections
f. By mail
Source: Law on elections to the Seimas, article 62, 67, 67(1)
Last updated: Thu, 12 Sep 2002 14:45:18 GMT
VO04 Who can vote from outside the country?
b. Citizens residing outside the country
c. Citizens outside the country (including those on vacation)
d. Members of the armed forces
f. Diplomatic staff
Source: Law on elections to the Seimas, article 67-74
Last updated: Fri, 30 Aug 2002 14:15:35 GMT
VO05 If voting outside the country is permitted, at what places?
a. Embassies
b. Consulates
c. Special polling stations
Comments: c.) For example on boats.
Source: Law on elections to the Seimas,article 67-72
Last updated: Fri, 30 Aug 2002 14:16:40 GMT
VO06 Can people vote in advance of the designated national election day(s)?
b. Yes
Comments: Voting by mail shall be possible at post offices during opening hours beginning 5 days before the election and ending 1 day prior to the election (if voter is on the list of that district) or 2 days prior to the election (if voter is on the list of another district).
Source: Parliamentary Election Act, article 67(1)
Last updated: Wed, 11 Sep 2002 12:21:41 GMT
VO07 If electors can vote in advance of the designated national election day(s), how may they do so?
b. By mail
c. At the post office
Source: Parliamentary Election Act, article 67(1) Vaidotas Bacevicius, Member of the Central Electoral Committee, vabace@lrs.lt 67. (1)
Last updated: Fri, 30 Aug 2002 14:19:26 GMT
VO08 If electors can vote in advance of the designated national election day(s), specify who:
a. Everyone
Source: Parliamentary Election Act, article 67(1) Vaidotas Bacevicius, Member of the Central Electoral Committee, vabace@lrs.lt 67. (1)
Last updated: Fri, 30 Aug 2002 14:20:09 GMT
VO09 Is there a maximum allowable voter capacity of a polling station for the national elections?
a. Yes
Comments: The maximum is 5000.
Source: Parliamentary, Presidential and Municipal Elections Acts, Referendum Act.
Last updated: Wed, 11 Sep 2002 12:23:02 GMT
VO10 Is there a maximum allowable voter capacity of a polling station for the national elections?
a. Yes, the maximum capacity is: 5000
Source: Vaidotas Bacevicius, Member of the Central Electoral Committee, vabace@lrs.lt
Last updated: Fri, 30 Aug 2002 14:21:49 GMT
VO11 How do electors cast their votes?
a. By manually marking the ballot
Comments: Having been handed ballot papers, the voter shall go into the polling booth and mark the ballot papers. It shall be prohibited to mark ballot papers outside the polling booth.
Source: Parliamentary Election Act, article 66(1) Voting Procedure, article 66
Last updated: Wed, 11 Sep 2002 12:24:26 GMT
VO12 How many staff are assigned to each polling station?
a. The smallest polling station: 5
b. The largest polling station: 20
Comments: Only Polling District Committee's members work at polling stations. There are from 5 to 20 Committee members in each polling station. The number of Committee members depends on the size of Polling District (number of voters). For instance, at the Parliamentary Elections, each polling station has from a few hundred to 3,000 voters on the voters list and there are approximately 2,016 polling stations.
Source: Vaidotas Bacevicius, Member of the Central Electoral Committee, vabace@lrs.lt
Last updated: Thu, 12 Sep 2002 15:31:02 GMT
VO13 Approximately how many hours of training were provided to the presiding polling officer for the most recent national elections?
a. hours: 18 - 24 hrs
Comments: The CEC does not provide training for Polling District Committeesâ members. The training is provided by the District Electoral Committees and, for Parliamentary Elections, there are 71 District Electoral Committees. The CEC only provides training for the District Electoral Committees. It is difficult to specify the amount of hours of training as figures differ, but, at least 3-4 seminars (each 6-8 hours long) are certainly provided. Of course, extra support is given if solicited by the Polling District Committees. It should be taken into account, however, that Election Officials seldomly change from one election to the next, so the training needed is basically related to Law amendments or new regulations.
Source: Vaidotas Bacevicius, Member of the Central Electoral Committee, vabace@lrs.lt
Last updated: Thu, 12 Sep 2002 15:43:08 GMT
VO14 Approximately how many hours of training were provided to the other polling officials for the most recent national elections?
a. hours: 18 - 24 hrs
Comments: The CEC does not provide training for Polling District Committeesâ members. The training is provided by the District Electoral Committees and, for Parliamentary Elections, there are 71 District Electoral Committees. The CEC only provides training for the District Electoral Committees. It is difficult to specify the amount of hours of training as figures differ, but, at least 3-4 seminars (each 6-8 hours long) are certainly provided. Of course, extra support is given if solicited by the Polling District Committees. It should be taken into account, however, that Election Officials seldomly change from one election to the next, so the training needed is basically related to Law amendments or new regulations.
Source: Vaidotas Bacevicius, Member of the Central Electoral Committee, vabace@lrs.lt
Last updated: Thu, 12 Sep 2002 15:43:43 GMT
Voter Registration
VR01 What is the legal voting age in the national elections?
c. 18
Comments: Citizens of the Republic of Lithuania who, on the day of the election, are 18 years of age shall have the right to vote.
Source: Law on Elections to the Seimas, article 2(1) Universal Suffrage, article 2
Last updated: Wed, 11 Sep 2002 12:13:15 GMT
VR02 Beyond age, what other qualifications exist for registering to vote and voting in the national elections?
a. Citizenship
b. Period of Residence
Source: Law on Elections to the Seimas, article 2(1), Municipal Election Act, article 2
Last updated: Fri, 30 Aug 2002 14:04:21 GMT
VR03 What restrictions on registering to vote and voting exist in the country?
d. Mental disability
Comments: People who have been declared legally incompetent by the court shall not participate in elections.
Source: Parliamentary Election Act, article 2
Last updated: Fri, 30 Aug 2002 14:05:02 GMT
VR04 Which is the authority responsible for the registration of voters for national elections?
d. Election Management Body (specify)
Comments: Central Election Committee
Source: Law on Elections to the Seimas, article 25(5)
Last updated: Fri, 30 Aug 2002 14:06:09 GMT
VR05 What is the registration method for national elections?
a. National citizens register
Source: Parliamentary Election Act, article 25
Last updated: Fri, 30 Aug 2002 14:06:46 GMT
VR06 How frequently is the voters register updated?
a. Continuously
Comments: Compiling, updating and keeping of voter lists shall be organised by the Central Electoral Committee on the basis of the information furnished by central and local government institutions and constituency electoral committees."
Source: Parliamentary Election Act, article 26(1-2)
Last updated: Fri, 30 Aug 2002 14:08:03 GMT
VR07 What methods are used to compile and update the voters register?
a. Links to national population records
b. Links to police records of residence
Comments: State institutions that issue documents certifying citizenship keep information related to the statement of citizens' residence, register citizens' death and loss of citizenship are responsible for a timely and proper upddating of the population register.
Source: Parliamentary Elections Act, article 26
Last updated: Fri, 30 Aug 2002 14:09:06 GMT
VR08 Is it compulsory to be on the voters register?
a. Yes
Comments: This is done automatically and is the responsibility of the local government. If the voter is not on the register on the election day she/he can provide an identity document with address of the residence in order to get on the register and vote in a proper constituency.
Source: Law on elections to the Seimas, articles: 25 to 28, 32 and 35
Last updated: Wed, 11 Sep 2002 12:19:10 GMT
20/05/2008 07:19
