On July 4–5, Vilnius hosted the annual 37th international conference Baltic Criminological Seminar. Organized by the Lithuanian Association of Criminologists in collaboration with the Law Institute of the Lithuanian Centre for Social Sciences, as well as the Faculties of Philosophy and Law at Vilnius University, the conference brought together over 70 researchers and other participants interested in criminology to share their research and academic work.

The presentations delivered during the conference covered a wide range of topics reflecting current challenges and directions in criminological research both within the Baltic region and internationally. On the first day of the conference, discussions addressed penal policy, gender aspects across different legal systems, juvenile delinquency, and issues related to the enforcement of sentences in custodial institutions. Speakers from various countries – including Germany, the United Kingdom, Poland, and Finland – shared insights on the Baltic region’s role in the global context of prison research and explored topics such as restorative justice, quality of life, and systemic challenges in responding to violence against marginalized groups.

The second day of the conference focused on analyses of prevention, public security, law enforcement, and contemporary criminal justice measures from a criminological perspective. Topics discussed included judicial decision-making motivation, the prospects of applying mediation in criminal justice in Lithuania, court practices related to animal protection, and others.

The conference concluded with an open discussion titled “The Baltic Criminology Seminar: From Past to Future”, which offered reflections on the development and future prospects of this academic network. This annual event continues to contribute to the advancement of interdisciplinary dialogue, knowledge exchange, and the growth of criminological thought in the region.

Photo of the organizers.