Strengthening the Critical Infrastructures in Lithuania: From Protection Towards Resilience
摘要
Lithuania’s national security and economic stability rely on the resilience of its critical infrastructures (CIs), which face increasing threats from hybrid warfare and technological complexity. The article analyses Lithuania’s evolving approach to strengthening critical infrastructure (CI), shifting from traditional Critical Infrastructure Protection (CIP) to Critical Infrastructure Resilience (CIR). While CIP focuses on preventing risks and safeguarding assets, CIR emphasizes the ability of systems to anticipate, absorb, and recover from disruptions—especially in the face of hybrid threats and increasing technological complexity. This transition involves proactive policies, integrated risk assessments, and resilience-by-design principles in infrastructure planning. The article points out the foundational role of CI in national security. These systems—ranging from energy and transport to health and ICT—are essential for public safety, economic stability, and societal well-being. Their interdependence with national security sectors underlines the importance of robust protection and resilience frameworks. The article discusses key megatrends impacting CIP in Lithuania, including digital transformation, regulatory shifts, and growing system interconnectivity. These trends necessitate more dynamic and adaptive strategies as infrastructures face both traditional and emerging threats. The author of the article proposes the roadmap that includes seven key steps: adopting a resilience mindset, conducting comprehensive risk assessments, embedding resilience in infrastructure development, enhancing cybersecurity, fostering public–private collaboration, engaging communities, and implementing continuous monitoring and improvement mechanisms. The article concludes by recommending initiatives for further enhancement of the resilience of critical infrastructure.