ABSTRACT
Lithuania as an independent democratically-run modern civic state celebrated one hundred years on February 2018. It was an important anniversary in reflection of its historical significance, to review and mark the centennial achievements of the country and its people, inspiring challenges for the future. This chapter explores the importance of sport as key element of Lithuanian society and how it has played a significant role in different socio-economic transformation periods of the state. Public governance of sport, the role of the state in the development of sport, the transparent and agreed principles of the distribution of public funds, the relationships with non-for-profit sport organisations as well as public-private co-operation are the core aspects of the Lithuanian sport sector – all of which are examined in this chapter. The issue of furthering grassroots sport development in maintaining traditionally municipality-funded sport schools or promoting the growth of clubs remains open. There has also been evident change in societal behaviour towards participation in sport. Basketball remains the most notable sport as a reflection of national identity and the indispensable mean of uniting people. Furthermore, the restructuring of the Lithuanian sport system demands agreements among various stakeholders based on respect, transparency and professional competence, which is analysed in this chapter.
