Lithuanian conservative MP calls for probe of Muslim org over alleged security risks

A Lithuanian conservative Member of Parliament has called for an investigation into a Muslim religious organization, alleging it poses a potential threat to national security due to its alleged connections with foreign entities and its impact on the country's historic Muslim community. Dalia Asanavičiūtė-Gružauskienė, a member of the opposition Homeland Union-Lithuanian Christian Democrats (TS-LKD), submitted a formal request to the parliamentary Committee on National Security and Defence asking it to evaluate the activities of the Council of Muslim Religious Communities of Lithuania, commonly referred to as the second muftiate. Asanavičiūtė-Gružauskienė claimed that the organization has been increasingly asserting control over mosques traditionally managed by Lithuania’s historic Tatar community. She argued that this shift has led to a sense of displacement among the Tatars, who now feel marginalized within their own religious spaces. In her statement, she accused the second muftiate of aggressively taking over the management of places of worship, allowing immigrants to assume positions previously held by native Tatars. The MP further highlighted concerns regarding the organization’s relationships with foreign foundations, suggesting that some of these partners have been linked to international allegations of funding terrorism or promoting radicalization since 1996. Her claims were supported by references to the Lithuania’s State Security Department (VSD), which in its 2025 national threat assessment noted that terrorist organizations are expanding the influence of Islamist propaganda across Europe, targeting individuals vulnerable to radicalization. However, the report did not specifically address the situation in Lithuania. Asanavičiūtė-Gružauskienė pointed out that the Justice Ministry’s approval of the second muftiate’s establishment in 2019 had caused divisions within Lithuania’s Muslim community. She expressed worries about the preservation of the country’s historic Tatar heritage, arguing that the organization’s growing influence could undermine cultural continuity. The MP’s request to the parliamentary committee includes a call to determine whether the concerns surrounding the second muftiate align with the broader threats outlined in the VSD report. If the committee finds evidence that the organization’s activities conflict with Lithuania’s national security interests, Asanavičiūtė-Gružauskienė intends to push for its deregistration through the Justice Ministry. This would involve formally requesting the ministry to take action against the organization based on the findings of the committee’s inquiry. The controversy surrounding the second muftiate has sparked debate within Lithuania’s political landscape. Supporters argue that the organization plays a crucial role in representing the interests of the Muslim community and ensuring religious freedom. Critics, however, view the group as a potential risk to national security and cultural identity. The issue has become particularly sensitive given the broader context of rising concerns about radicalization and the influence of external actors in European affairs. The parliamentary committee will need to conduct a thorough examination of the organization’s activities, including its financial dealings, leadership structure, and interactions with foreign entities. This process may involve reviewing internal documents, interviewing members of the Muslim community, and consulting with experts on religious and security matters. The outcome of the committee’s investigation will likely shape future policy decisions regarding the regulation of religious organizations in Lithuania. The situation highlights the complex interplay between religious autonomy, national security, and cultural preservation in contemporary societies. As the committee moves forward with its review, the responses from both the Muslim community and the government will be critical in determining how such issues are addressed moving forward.