NP AU T IB OL NI KA OL S S KE AC RU I RN I ĖT YS T SRTART AE TGEI G Y L I E T U V O S R E S J A tive external influence and propaganda, lead to distrust of state institutions and the political system of the Republic of Lithuania. Such trends may create a basis for the development of radical, extremist movements within the State and potentially destabilise the political system; 14.11. demographic crisis – a decreasing number of the Lithuanian population due to low birth rates, demographic ageing and the persistently large scale of emigration poses a threat to Lithuania’s long-term social, economic and political stability and economic development. Prolonged negative demographic trends dampen Lithuania’s economic potential, act as a brake on the growth of national economy and hamper the attainment of sustainable economic growth and welfare; 14.12. corruption – the spread of this phenomenon in the public sector, economy and business which may undermine legitimate interests of individuals and the State, discredit the rule of law, diminish the trust of citizens in democratic values, democratic state institutions and reduce the country’s attractiveness for foreign investors; 14.13. organized crime – the spreading of this phenomenon to the national economy and financial markets may cause a serious threat to public security, have a negative impact on the country’s economic and political life; 14.14. emergency situations at national or international level – situations which have occurred because of natural, technical, ecological or social events, outbreaks of contagious diseases threatening to cause a major danger and threat to the health and life of the majority of the population, the environment, to disturb public administration or the functioning of critical infrastructure. Such situations may increase in number due to negative consequences caused by the climate change and nuclear incidents; 14.15. crisis of values – disrespect for inherent human rights, downgrading of Christian values, family institution, liberal democracy and pluralistic society, spreading of anti-humanistic theories, religious doctrines and ideologies diminishing or denying the value of human life, inciting racial, national or religious discord, promoting or justifying violence, coercion and genocide. Chapter V PRIORITIES AND OBJECTIVES OF NATIONAL SECURITY POLICY 15. The priorities and objectives of the national security policy create conditions to develop, through the concerted efforts of the State and its citizens, and strengthen democracy, to ensure the internal and exterior security of the State, to deter any potential aggressor and to defend the independence, territorial integrity and constitutional order of the Republic of Lithuania. 16. External and internal factors which influence the national security of the Republic of Lithuania are interrelated; therefore, measures of foreign, defence and domestic policies aimed at enhancing national security must also be mutually consistent. 17. Strengthening of the national security pursued by the Republic of Lithuania will aim at forming a favourable security environment, preventing potential threats, dangers and risks, and 7