The discrepancy of Lithuanian foreign policy: “Normative” deeds for the “Realpolitik” needs?
The discrepancy of Lithuanian foreign policy: “Normative” deeds for the “Realpolitik” needs?

Summary/Abstract: This article aims at evaluating Lithuanian foreign policy in the context of the EU’s normative power. First, a brief review of Lithuanian foreign policy prior to its membership in the EU and NATO, as well as the reload of Lithuanian foreign policy agenda immediately after its accession is presented and explanation of the rationale behind it is provided. This is followed by a discussion of issues concerning the normative dimension of recent Lithuanian foreign policy and its correspondence to the one of the EU. Subsequent analysis focuses primarily on (1) the role of norms and values in Lithuanian foreign policy; (2) Lithuania’s main priorities and expectations in light of EU foreign policy; (3) the country’s position on the introduction of political conditionality in EU external relations; and finally, (4) the human security dimension of Lithuanian foreign policy. The examination of the abovementioned questions results into the conclusion that Lithuania fails to become a beneficiary of and contributor to the EU’s normative power mostly because, under the normative façade of its foreign policy, Lithuania’s actions on international arena are still determined by the Realpolitik way of thinking.

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