Majority of Lithuanians concerned about terrorist attacks and armed conflicts

The Eurobarometer survey by TNS LT revealed that 56 percent of people in Lithuania were concerned about terrorist attacks, and 61 percent said they were worried by armed conflicts.

The survey was aimed at finding out EU citizens' opinion on civil protection and humanitarian aid, TNS LT said in a statement.

Lithuanians are mostly concerned about disasters, for example, oil spills, nuclear accidents, with 84 percent indicating their concern. Meanwhile 69 percent of people said they were concerned about natural disasters, including floods and earthquakes.

90 percent of Lithuanian residents agree that the EU should help any country outside its territory in case of a natural or man-made disaster by sending experts and necessary equipment. Also, 86 percent of Lithuanian residents believe that a coordinated EU action in dealing with disasters is more effective than actions by individual countries.

Survey authors also say the economic crisis has had no negative influence on a positive attitude to humanitarian aid among residents of EU member states. 39 percent of Lithuanians totally support the EU continuing to fund humanitarian aid to provide assistance to people in urgent need around the world, despite the economic crisis and pressures on public finances. The number is a bit smaller in the EU as a whole, standing at 36 percent.

TV and internet are the main sources of information on about EU humanitarian aid and civil protection policy.

"It's worth mentioning that online social networks play a major role for people in our country in search of additional information. A fifth of people surveyed in Lithuania look for information about EU humanitarian aid policy there. Lithuania and Slovakia are leaders in Europe in this respect. Meanwhile, EU average is 11 percent," TNS LT said.

1,021 Lithuanian residents were surveyed in February-March.