Summary
This project aims to support Lithuania with the implementation of specific national reforms in line with the recommendations of the Schengen Evaluation and Monitoring Mechanism. Technical support is provided to the State Border Guard Service (SBGS), operating under the Ministry of the Interior, with a focus on strengthening training systems and enhancing situational awareness and operational effectiveness at the border.
The Schengen acquis forms the legal and operational basis for the area of free movement without internal border controls across the European Union. Following the 2023 Schengen evaluation in the field of external border management, Lithuania was recommended to take action in several priority areas.
One key recommendation was the development of a well-structured and comprehensive training strategy for border personnel, covering areas such as document examination, the identification of stolen vehicles, the use of the Schengen and Visa Information Systems, as well as fundamental rights and data protection. Another priority area was the enhancement of situational awareness mechanisms to support real-time coordination at both national and EU levels, particularly in relation to the use of EUROSUR Fusion Services (EFS).
Addressing these challenges through improved training, technological upgrades, and enhanced coordination will be essential to ensuring that Lithuania’s border control remains resilient, cost-effective, and fully aligned with European security standards.
Support to be delivered
The project provides support to strengthen training systems and situational awareness mechanisms through study visits and peer exchanges with selected EU Member States. Relevant good practices that could be adapted to the national context will be compiled in a dedicated repository and reviewed during a national workshop to assess their potential applicability. Structured follow-up will support the integration of selected approaches into existing systems, ensuring the support is practical, relevant, and in line with national priorities.
Activities are implemented over a 12-month period, in Lithuania and in partner countries, and are closely coordinated with the beneficiary to ensure targeted support and national ownership.
Results achieved
The project is expected to strengthen the professional capacity of SBGS by supporting efforts to improve the coordination and delivery of training as well as to enhance situational awareness mechanisms. By engaging in peer exchanges and study visits with selected EU Member States, SBGS will explore relevant practices and practical models that can inform improvements in areas such as onboarding, staff development, and the operational use of EFS. The anticipated outcomes include enhanced training and operational capabilities of border personnel, and more effective use of EFS to support situational awareness and real-time coordination at both national and EU levels, in line with Lithuania’s reform priorities under the Schengen evaluation.