Summary

SAI Lithuania audited the performance of consular functions by the Ministry of Foreign Affairs in 2021-2024. The audit found that the volume of consular activities during the specified period increased by 47%, while the number of consular officers and consular employees working in Lithuanian missions abroad, actually performing consular functions and carrying out consular activities, decreased by 17.3%. The auditors also found that 25% of consular inspections were carried out more than 5 years ago, there is no control over the elimination of inconsistencies identified during the inspections and the implementation of the recommendations issued. In addition, the audit showed that not all premises where Lithuanian citizens are provided with consular services comply with the established requirements (out of 26 institutions inspected, 10 comply with the requirements). The SAI recommended that the Ministry of Foreign Affairs improve the process and enhance the efficiency of management of existing resources to ensure a higher level of consular service delivery.