Gabrielus Landsbergis, until late last year the minister for foreign affairs of Lithuania, has joined the advisory board of Defend Democracy, a Dutch non-profit based in Brussels. Since a few months I’m serve on Defend Democracy’s board as treasurer.

Gabrielius Landsbergis served as Lithuania’s Minister of Foreign Affairs from 2020 to 2024. Born under Soviet occupation, he witnessed Lithuania’s fight for independence, led by his grandfather Vytautas Landsbergis. Throughout his career, he has fought for freedom. As Minister, he positioned Lithuania as a global advocate for freedom, strongly supporting Ukraine and backing democratic movements in Moldova, Georgia, and Taiwan. Since leaving politics he continues to challenge authoritarianism..

I’m pleased and a bit awed that Defend Democracy is able to gather the advisory board it has. Such as former Dutch MEP Sophie in ‘t Veld, whose work I much admire. And now Luthuania’s former MFA. A clear sign how well regarded our executive director Alice Stollmeyer is.
Late next week I will be in Brussels for in person meetings with the other board members. Much looking forward to it.