Lithuanian security services request additional 350 million euros for 2025 budget

Lithuania's law enforcement agencies are seeking a significant funding boost, requesting an additional 350 million euros for the 2025 state budget to enhance their operational capacities and personnel conditions. Representatives from the Police Department, State Border Guard Service (VSAT), Fire and Rescue Department (PAGD), and Public Security Service (VST) have identified strengthening officer salaries, motivation, and overall capabilities as top priorities.

The Police Department has outlined the most substantial additional funding requirement, asking for nearly 169 million euros. Of this amount, approximately 49.8 million euros are earmarked for salaries and social benefits, while 88.2 million euros will go towards material and technical equipment, improving working conditions, tactical readiness, and fulfilling financial obligations. An additional 3.8 million euros are requested for daily police functions, and 8.4 million euros for Lithuania's upcoming presidency of the Council of the European Union. A further 18.5 million euros are designated for public security enhancement programs, including equipping officers according to approved military standards.

The Fire and Rescue Department is also requesting increased funding, estimating a preliminary need of 43.9 million euros for 2027, with 12.3 million euros allocated for salaries. These funds would support salary increases, overtime payments, and other employment-related commitments. Additionally, the funding aims to bolster the fire safety system, upgrade equipment, enhance crisis preparedness, and ensure the daily functioning of service units. The department notes that slower salary growth compared to the national average makes it difficult to attract and retain experienced firefighters.

The State Border Guard Service (VSAT) is seeking a considerable increase, requesting an additional 134.5 million euros on top of its 2025 budget of 252.4 million euros. These funds are intended for salary increases, filling vacant positions, ensuring social guarantees, preparing for armed national defense, and protecting critical infrastructure in the Baltic Sea. VSAT emphasizes that raising officer salaries is paramount to filling essential border security positions and maintaining officer motivation.