Country Profile: Lithuania

Lithuania, located in Eastern Europe along the Baltic Sea, is bordered by Latvia and Russia, with a strategic position west of Belarus. With a population of approximately 2.8 million, the nation emphasizes a strong economy driven by private consumption and investments from the EU. A semi-presidential republic, Lithuania has made significant strides in governance and international integration since regaining independence in 1990, becoming a member of NATO and the EU in 2004. Additionally, it has transitioned to a high-income economy, marked by a commitment to sustainable development and a modernized infrastructure.

Geography

Lithuania's total area spans 65,300 sq km, making it slightly larger than West Virginia, with a temperate climate characterized by wet, moderate winters and summers. The country features a lowland terrain dotted with small lakes and fertile soil, with approximately 45.9% of its land designated for agriculture.

1,545 km of land borders with Belarus, Latvia, Poland, and Russia.
The highest point is Aukstojas at 294 m; the lowest point is the Baltic Sea at 0 m.
35.3% of the land is covered by forests, contributing to a rich biodiversity.

People and Society

Lithuania's estimated population is 2,815,687 as of 2025, predominantly comprising 84.6% Lithuanians, along with Polish and Russian minorities. The official language is Lithuanian, spoken by 85.3% of the population, reflecting the nation's cultural heritage rooted deeply in history.

74.2% of the population identifies as Roman Catholic, with diverse religious practices present.
The median age is 44 years (2025 est.), with a life expectancy of 76.1 years.
Urban population stands at 68.7%, primarily concentrated in cities like Vilnius, the capital, which has a population of 541,000.

Economy

Lithuania is recognized as the largest Baltic economy and a high-income EU member, with a real GDP of $136.227 billion (2024 est.) driven by private consumption and EU investment. Structural challenges include an aging workforce and high energy-import costs.

63.6% of the economy is derived from the services sector.
The unemployment rate is projected at 7.6% (2024).
Lithuania’s major exports include refined petroleum and furniture, with $62.896 billion in exports expected for 2024.

Government

Lithuania operates as a semi-presidential republic with the capital in Vilnius. The current president, Gitanas Nauseda, has been in office since July 2019. The government structure features a unicameral legislature, the Seimas, with 141 members elected every four years.

The legal system is based on civil law, with a latest constitution adopted in 1992.
Universal suffrage is granted to citizens aged 18 and older.
Lithuania's independence was reaffirmed on March 11, 1990, following a period of Soviet occupation.

Military and Security

The Lithuanian Armed Forces consist of the Land Forces, Navy, and Air Force, complemented by volunteer forces and police under the Ministry of Interior. Military expenditures have grown to 4% of GDP for 2025, highlighting Lithuania's commitment to defense, particularly against perceived threats from Russia.

Active duty military personnel approximate 20,000.
Lithuania contributes 350-550 troops to international missions, particularly within NATO frameworks.
Conscription was reinstated in 2015, reflecting security concerns in the region.

Energy

Lithuania has achieved 100% electrification, with diverse energy sources including wind and solar. The country has been modernizing its energy infrastructure while focusing on sustainability.

The total installed electricity generation capacity is 5.426 million kW (2023 est.).
Lithuania imports 10.91 billion kWh and exports 3.98 billion kWh of electricity (2023 est.).
The country aims to decrease reliance on fossil fuels, with 51% of capacity coming from wind.

Environment

Environmental issues in Lithuania include water and air pollution, deforestation, and soil degradation. The nation is committed to addressing these challenges through various international agreements.

Forests cover 35.3% of the land area, while 45.9% is used for agriculture.
24.5 billion cubic meters of renewable water resources are available annually.
Approximately 34.9% of municipal solid waste is recycled (2022 est.).

Transportation

Lithuania boasts a comprehensive transportation network, including road, rail, and air travel, facilitating efficient movement of goods and people.

There are 64 airports and 1,911 km of railways, with 152 km electrified.
The merchant marine includes 59 vessels, supporting international trade.
The civil aircraft registration country code is LY.

Communications

Telecommunications in Lithuania are well-developed, with significant internet penetration and mobile subscriptions fostering connectivity.

89% of the population are internet users (2023 est.).
There are approximately 3.97 million mobile cellular subscriptions (2024 est.).
Fixed broadband subscriptions total 806,000 (2023 est.), ensuring high-speed access for urban areas.

Key Metrics

Metric	Value	Note
Population	2,815,687 (2025 est.)
Area	65,300 sq km
Real GDP	$136.227 billion (2024 est.)	Purchasing power parity
Unemployment Rate	7.6% (2024 est.)
Life Expectancy	76.1 years (2024 est.)
Birth Rate	7.01 births/1,000 (2025 est.)
Energy Consumption per Capita	83.7 million Btu/person (2023 est.)
Electricity Access	100% (2022 est.)
Percent of Urban Population	68.7% (2023)
Military Expenditures	4% of GDP (2025 est.)