OPENING OF THE ORGANIZATION THAT HAS BEEN A CLEAR VOICE FOR FREEDOM AND DEMOCRACY IS A GOOD SIGN FOR LITHUANIA, MINISTER SAYS
The opening of the international non-governmental organization “Freedom House” in Vilnius is a clear signal that Lithuania is a “reliable and active member of the democratic community”, Lithuanian Minister of Foreign Affairs Audronius Ažubalis said during the opening ceremony on 7 June. “Lithuania had to come a long way struggling for freedom and independence, hence the presence of “Freedom House” is very timely and important. We certainly hope this first step will develop into the long-lasting cooperation,” the Minister said.
According to the Minister, the organization’s mission in Lithuania, among others, will be to deal with the freedom of expression in the neighboring region.“Unfortunately, political prisoners, harassment of the civic society, independent media is the reality in Belarus today. I strongly believe that the activities of “Freedom House” will be a substantial element in supporting Belarusian civic society in Belarus as well as in exile,” A.Ažubalis said.
“Freedom House” is located in the building of the Lithuanian National Radio and Television, which, according to the Minister, was “occupied 20 years ago and was then used for a Soviet propaganda”.
With its headquarters office in Washington, D.C., “Freedom House” monitors and analyses democratic change, political freedom and human rights situation in various countries of the world, advocates for democracy and supports the expansion of freedom. The organization publishes an annual report “Freedom in the World”, which provides an assessment of political freedom and human rights around the world. In 2011, the report identified Lithuania as a free country.
