Main narratives:
- Anti-government narratives;
- Promoting distinction between ‘them’ (politicians) vs. ‘us’ (citizens);
- Questioning country’s security;
- Violation of human rights in Lithuania.
Overview:
During this reporting week, heated discussions were mainly accelerated by two cases. Firstly, a man carrying a bag with a Wagner group (Russian state-funded militia) badge was detained at Vilnius Airport. While the majority of social media users condemned him for wearing a terrorist badge, others found a way to criticize the officials and Lithuanian police, blaming them for inappropriate behavior or even of violating human rights. Another discussion burst out considering Lithuanians’ willingness to defend the country with a gun, if necessary. Yet again, numerous comments carrying anti-government narrative appeared online.
