Lithuanian Catholic Church to investigate crimes against minors, vulnerable adults

VILNIUS - Lithuania's Bishops' Conference has decided to launch an investigation into crimes committed against minors and vulnerable adults within the Catholic Church since 1990.

According to the organisation, consultations will be held with the Holy See and Lithuanian law enforcement authorities regarding the nature of the inquiry.

The bishops said the probe aims to support victims, strengthen prevention of such crimes and create a safer environment within the Church. They emphasised that the priority is the victim, rather than the institution's reputation.

In September, courts opened criminal cases against two priests involving crimes related to children.

Priest Tadas Svedavicius is accused of sexual offences against 11 minors. Law enforcement data indicates 34 criminal episodes, with the suspected crimes allegedly committed between 2002 and 2025. The case has been referred to the Vilnius Regional Court.

In a separate case, priest Rysardas Peciunas is charged with possession of child pornography. There are no victims in this specific case.

Following the charges against Svedavicius and Peciunas, discussions have intensified in Lithuania regarding the establishment of a public sex offender registry. The Seimas has also given the green light to the proposal.