ABSTRACT
In this chapter, we analyze the local electoral system in Lithuania by examining the organization of local elections, voter turnout, party representation, election stakes, and council composition. The current electoral situation in Lithuania is characterized by electoral volatility and local political fragmentation, including party mergers and splits, changing labels, and emerging local electoral committees. Finally, two main trends stand out in the Lithuanian case. The first is the revival of nonpartisan candidates and committees in local politics, which has increased the localization of municipal politics and changed the profile of local leadership. The second trend is a shift toward the personalization and growing power of mayors alongside the introduction of direct mayoral elections.
