ABSTRACT
This chapter seeks to conceptualize the phenomenon of shrinkage in Lithuania using the case of Siauliai. It presents key empirical evidence of the shrinkage of Siauliai, including related consequences and attitudes of local actors. The chapter argues that Siauliai still has grounds to be considered a strong center of northwestern Lithuania in light of its university, international airport, railway and road connections, and longstanding Free Economic Zones. These factors all contribute to making Siauliai a lively city with some visibility in local and foreign media; however, these advantages over other non-metropolitan Lithuanian cities have not prevented its rapid urban shrinkage. The drivers of shrinkage are diverse. Scholars point out that shrinkage is influenced by economic decline and job-related out-migration, demographic change, suburbanization, structural upheaval, political changes, resettlement, and environmental disasters, among other reasons. Research results identify three main approaches the city has adopted to manage urban shrinkage: keeping existing or attracting new young residents; economic development; and infrastructure renewal.
