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The Lithuanian Riflemen Union (Lietuvos šaulių sąjunga) is a voluntary civic organization that unites citizens who wish to contribute to the defense and resilience of their country. Established in 1919 and re-established after Lithuania regained independence in 1989, the Union has grown into a nationwide movement with more than 17,000 members in Lithuania and abroad. It operates transparently under Lithuanian law and under the supervision of the Ministry of National Defense.

The Riflemen Union plays a key role in Lithuania’s comprehensive national defense system, ensuring that citizens can participate in strengthening security not only through armed service, but also through civil, humanitarian, and educational activities. In wartime, Riflemen are integrated into the Lithuanian Armed Forces and contribute as specialists in fields such as drones, cyber defense, medical support, logistics, and engineering. In peacetime, they assist state institutions including the Armed Forces, Police, Fire & Rescue Service, and Border Guard in disaster relief, information security, community resilience, and other vital areas.

Beyond defense, the Union is strongly committed to society and civic education. Its youth program engages schoolchildren from age 11 in leadership, survival skills, and civic responsibility. Its diaspora branches strengthen ties with Lithuanian communities worldwide, counter disinformation, and support international cooperation. Cultural, educational, and historical memory projects further connect the Riflemen Union to society, making it not only a defense organization but also a broad civic movement that embodies democratic values, transparency, and public trust.