Weekly Briefing, Vol. 68. No. 1 (LVA) December 2023
Overview of Latvian Domestic Politics in 2023
Summary
In 2023, Latvia’s political landscape witnessed significant developments, marked by the election of Edgars Rinkevics as its first openly gay president, and his strong anti-Russia stance, especially in support of Ukraine. Krišjānis Kariņš’s government, commencing in December 2022, navigated economic challenges stemming from Russia’s invasion of Ukraine and focused on defense spending and Latvian-language education, becoming the longest-serving government in Latvia’s democratic history. Later in the year, Evika Silina’s government, formed by a coalition, emphasized human-centric governance and Euro-Atlantic foreign policy. The year also saw the ratification of the Istanbul Convention, addressing violence against women and domestic violence, amidst significant political debate. Additionally, the introduction of the “partnership institute” marked a progressive step in Latvian law, extending legal protections to various forms of relationships, including same-sex couples. Collectively, these events reflect Latvia’s commitment to reinforcing national security, aligning with Western political stances, and enhancing human rights protections.
Introduction
In 2023, the global geopolitical landscape continued to evolve rapidly, presenting a tapestry of challenges and opportunities that significantly impacted domestic politics worldwide. Latvia, a nation at the crossroads of Eastern and Western Europe, was no exception. This year was particularly pivotal for Latvian domestic politics, as the country navigated the complexities of a post-COVID-19 world, energy security concerns, and the ongoing geopolitical tensions between Russia and NATO. Furthermore, Latvia faced unique challenges and opportunities stemming from the strategic competition between global powers and the shifting sands of globalization and deglobalization. Amidst these dynamics, Latvia’s domestic political scene was marked by debates over climate risk, cybersecurity, and the broader implications of global economic and political shifts. This overview aims to provide a detailed analysis of the key political developments within Latvia in 2023, offering insights into how this small yet strategically significant nation has responded to and been shaped by these broader global trends.
Current President of the Republic of Latvia
Edgars Rinkevics, a previously prominent figure in Latvian politics, was elected as the President of the Republic of Latvia in 2023. His election is one of the most notable events in the political landscape for several reasons.
Edgars Rinkevics has been a significant figure in Latvian politics, serving as the country’s top diplomat since 2011. Before becoming president, Rinkevics held the position of Foreign Minister, a role in which he was known for his strong stance against Russia and unwavering support for Ukraine, especially following Russia’s full-scale invasion in 2022. This foreign policy stance contributed to his popularity among Latvians. Additionally, Rinkevics is noteworthy for being the first openly gay president in the Baltic nations, having publicly come out in 2014. This aspect of his identity is significant in the context of the Baltic region, where attitudes towards sexual minorities have historically been less tolerant compared to Western Europe.
Rinkevics was elected to the presidency following a vote in the Latvian Parliament on 31 May 2023. The election process was competitive, with Rinkevics receiving 52 votes, just one more than the required majority in the 100-seat legislature. The election saw a tight race, especially in the final rounds of voting. His closest rival, businessman Uldis Pilens, garnered 25 votes in the third round after another candidate, Elina Pinto, had dropped out of the contest. The incumbent president at the time, Egils Levits, chose not to seek re-election, leading to an open race for the position. Upon announcing his race for presidency, he left the New Unity party, in which he and then Prime Minister Krisjanis Karins were members. Thus, Rinkevics ran for the election as an independent candidate,
The presidency in Latvia is largely ceremonial, with the president acting mainly as a figurehead and opinion leader. The real power in the Latvian political system is vested in the office of the Prime Minister. However, the president does have important responsibilities, including representing Latvia internationally, acting as the supreme commander of the armed forces, signing bills into law, nominating the prime minister, and having the authority to dissolve the Parliament. The president also plays a role in uniting the country, which is significant in a nation where a sizable proportion of the population are ethnic Russians or Russian citizens.
Edgars Rinkevics’s presidency is significant for several reasons. His strong pro-Western stance, demonstrated during his tenure as foreign minister, aligns with Latvia’s position as a member of both NATO and the European Union. His support for Ukraine and advocacy for its accession to these organizations is particularly relevant given Latvia’s geographic and political position. Furthermore, Rinkevics’s identity as the first openly gay head of state in the Baltic region represents a notable moment in the broader cultural and social context of the area.
One of the most notable and well-welcomed proposals by the president are the significant amendments to the country’s Criminal Law, aiming to strengthen national security in response to heightened regional tensions, particularly due to Russia’s war against Ukraine. The proposal, which was adopted by the Saeima, includes harsher penalties for crimes against the state. Key changes involve increased prison sentences for activities deemed anti-Latvia, especially for public officials and employees of organizations or undertakings. The amendments extend the imprisonment terms for assisting foreign entities against Latvia and introduce sterner measures against espionage, including potential life sentences for severe cases. Additionally, the law now penalizes unauthorized involvement in military training or tactics and imposes strict consequences for spreading false information about hazardous materials in public spaces. These measures reflect Latvia’s proactive stance in fortifying its legal framework to safeguard against threats to its national security and public interests.
Overall, the election of Edgars Rinkevics as the President of Latvia marks a significant moment in the country’s political landscape, reflecting both the internal dynamics of Latvian politics and the broader geopolitical context of the Baltic region.
2023 Karins’s Government
The second government led by Krišjānis Kariņš in Latvia, which operated in 2023, faced significant challenges. Karins’s government, after receiving a vote of confidence from the Saeima on 12 December 2022, stressed the need for major economic transformation in response to the global changes triggered by Russia’s invasion of Ukraine. This invasion had a profound impact on global dynamics, including rising energy prices and inflation, leading to economic slowdowns. Karins’s government aimed to reorganize Latvia’s economy to improve prosperity, focusing on working for the benefit of its people.
During its tenure, Karins’s government was a strong critic of Russia’s actions in Ukraine and supported Kyiv both within the European Union and NATO. Reflecting security concerns, it committed to increasing Latvia’s defence spending to 3% of GDP by 2027, up from 2.25% in 2023. Additionally, it planned to switch to all-Latvian language education by 2025 and proposed to fence off Latvia’s borders with Belarus and Russia by the end of 2023.
The government faced internal challenges as well, including coalition disagreements and leadership issues. It was criticized for lagging behind its Baltic neighbours in socio-economic development, with decisions often perceived as unclear and slow to implement. The 2022 parliamentary elections brought about changes, with New Unity (JV), Karins’s party, significantly increasing its representation. This success was attributed to the public’s reaction to Russia’s aggression against Ukraine and the government’s active stance on this issue. The formation of the government following these elections revealed ideological and personal differences, particularly in setting work priorities and organizing government work.
Karins’s government became the longest-serving government in the history of democratic Latvia, staying in power for 1,078 days since its confirmation on January 21, 2019. This tenure reflects both its resilience in navigating complex political landscapes and its response to international and domestic challenges.
Current Government
On the 15th of September, 2023, during a special session, the Parliament bestowed its vote of confidence on the newly inaugurated Cabinet of Ministers, helmed by Prime Minister Evika Silina.
In her pre-vote discourse to the Parliament, Prime Minister Silina articulated the centrality of human-centric governance in the Cabinet’s policy framework, stating: “The cornerstone of our Cabinet’s manifesto is the individual. This denotes our commitment to ensuring that all societal groups in Latvia – encompassing patients, students, entrepreneurs, and family members of all generations – perceive the state as actively working for their welfare, rather than being passive or merely procedural. With your endorsement, I pledge to orient every governmental measure towards this aim – to elevate the standard of services provided by the state, to cultivate a Latvia that is more supportive, humane, and equitable. My administration will strive to create a milieu where entrepreneurs are unencumbered by excessive red tape. Students should recognize their education as being competitive on both national and international stages. Individuals subjected to violence should sense the state’s readiness and capacity to safeguard them. Patients ought to anticipate reduced wait times, while the elderly should experience enhanced social security. Every family should feel their significance and indispensability to Latvia.”
The composition of Latvia’s 42nd Cabinet of Ministers comprises:
– Prime Minister Evika Silina;
– Minister of Defence Andris Sprūds;
– Minister of Foreign Affairs Krišjānis Kariņš;
– Minister of Economics Viktors Valainis;
– Minister of the Interior Rihards Kozlovskis;
– Minister of Finance Arvils Ašeradens;
– Minister of Education and Science Anda Čakša;
– Minister of Climate and Energy Kaspars Melnis;
– Minister of Culture Agnese Logina;
– Minister of Welfare Uldis Augulis;
– Minister of Transport Kaspars Briškens;
– Minister of Justice Inese Lībiņa-Egnere;
– Minister of Health Hosams Abu Meri;
– Minister of Environmental Protection and Regional Development Inga Bērziņa;
– Minister of Agriculture Armands Krauze.
The coalition, composed of “New Unity,” “Green and Farmers’ Union,” and “Progressives,” underpins the new administration. The government has underscored its commitment to enhancing welfare, security, national defence, and fostering a sense of national belonging among Latvians.
The coalition’s foreign policy remains steadfastly Euro-Atlantic, with a defence budget maintained at a minimum of 3% of GDP until 2027. The comprehensive national defence system is set for augmentation, bolstering societal resilience against crises and state threats. Energy independence and the strategic role of media in security promotion are also focal points. Enhancements to the law enforcement system and the creation of a legally secure environment for living and investment are planned.
The government pledges support for the learning and preservation of the Latvian language and culture, ensuring their contemporary evolution. It aims to advance education, health, climate, and human rights, addressing demographic issues, housing, and poverty. Improvements to the business environment and state services are on the agenda. Public awareness regarding road safety, accident prevention, and maintaining a secure environment, along with increased civic and political engagement, are objectives.
The government’s manifesto includes developing sectors with high-value-added services and products and fostering synergy among public, private, academic, and NGO sectors. Economic competitiveness is anticipated to rise through tax policy reforms and labour market advancements. Sustainable regional development, promoting entrepreneurship, connectivity, and mobility, and streamlining corporate board bureaucracy are targeted.
Furthermore, the government, through a separate memorandum, commits to addressing current pressing issues. Coalition partners aim to introduce mechanisms for partial compensation of rising electricity costs by year’s end, enhance banking competition, and implement a bank profit tax. Ratification of the Council of Europe Convention on preventing and combating violence against women and domestic violence, strengthening cohabitation laws, and developing a sustainable education funding model were also planned.
Istanbul Convention
The ratification process of the Istanbul Convention in Latvia was a significant and complex political event, marked by debates, legal assessments, and political manoeuvring. The Istanbul Convention, formally known as the Council of Europe Convention on Preventing and Combating Violence Against Women and Domestic Violence, was eventually ratified by the Latvian Parliament after a contentious debate that stretched over several hours. This ratification marked a major step toward safeguarding women from all forms of violence and promoting gender equality in Latvia.
The path to ratification was not straightforward. Initially, the Latvian government approved a draft law for the ratification of the Istanbul Convention, setting the stage for parliamentary debates and votes. One of the crucial developments in the process was the Latvian Constitutional Court’s finding that the provisions of the Istanbul Convention, namely its Articles 3(c), Article 4(3), and Article 12(1), were in compliance with the Latvian constitution. This judgment was significant as it addressed concerns about the convention’s compatibility with national law and underscored that the convention’s scope was solely focused on the elimination of violence against women and domestic violence without imposing any specific form of marriage or family structure.
Despite the Constitutional Court’s approval, the ratification process in the Parliament witnessed political divisions. The ruling coalition saw some internal disagreements, but the Green and Farmers Union faction unanimously supported the ratification. The opposition party, United List, however, was vocal in its opposition, citing political and economic distractions and proposing alternative measures such as budget allocations for monitoring bracelets for men exhibiting aggression towards women.
Eventually, the convention was ratified on 30 November 2023 with a narrow margin, as 51 parliamentarians voted in favour, barely surpassing the required threshold. With this ratification, Latvia joined the majority of European Union countries in adopting the international standards set out in the Istanbul Convention, aimed at combating violence against women and domestic violence. This was seen as a significant step towards creating a safer and more equitable society for women in Latvia.
It is important to note that the ratification process was not just a legislative action but also a reflection of broader societal and political debates concerning gender equality and the protection of women against violence. The eventual success of the ratification process in Latvia demonstrates the country’s commitment to these important issues, aligning with broader European standards and values.
“Partnership Institute” for social protection
Latvia has taken a significant step in its legal framework by adopting the “partnership institute,” aimed at legally strengthening the relationship between two adults, including same-sex couples. This move provides these couples with social and economic protection, marking a progressive shift in Latvian law.
Latvia’s parliament, adopted amendments to eight laws, laying the groundwork for the partnership institute’s introduction. This legal arrangement is designed to bolster the relationships of adults, specifically including same-sex couples, by offering them various protections and benefits. These amendments are expected to come into force on July 1, 2024.
The partnership regulations allow two adults who share a close personal relationship, live together, and intend to support and care for each other, to enter into a partnership through a notarial agreement. Key aspects of these partnerships include the ability of one partner to make decisions regarding the treatment of the other in cases where they are unable to do so themselves, as well as access to information from medical institutions. The partnership also facilitates the acquisition of social guarantees for the partners.
It is important to note that this partnership is not intended to equate to or replace marriage. This distinction is crucial in the Latvian context, where marriage is constitutionally defined as a union between a man and a woman. The introduction of the partnership institute is a reflection of the Latvian state’s duty to protect the families of same-sex partners, following a judgment by the Constitutional Court. This development comes after several failed attempts to legally strengthen the cohabitation of unmarried couples, primarily due to objections regarding the extension of such rights to same-sex couples.
The adoption of this law was met with opposition. Some MPs characterized the regulation as a surrogate or a version of “marriage plagiarism,” aiming specifically at legalizing same-sex relationships. Concerns were also raised about the potential misuse of the partnership law for immigration purposes, although these fears were addressed by clarifying that the partnership institute does not amend the Immigration Act.
The partnership institute represents a significant societal shift in Latvia, balancing traditional views with the need to provide legal protections to all forms of relationships, including those of same-sex couples. As Latvia joins other European nations in recognizing and protecting diverse forms of relationships, this development is a noteworthy step in the evolution of social and legal norms in the country.
Conclusions
In 2023, Latvia’s political trajectory was characterized by a concerted effort to reinforce national security, deepen its pro-Western orientation, and enhance the protection of human rights, amidst a complex and challenging geopolitical environment. The government, led by prominent political figures, placed a strong emphasis on bolstering defence capabilities and economic resilience, underpinned by a strategic focus on diplomatic relations and solidarity within the European Union and NATO, particularly in the context of the escalating Ukraine conflict. Notably, there was a significant advancement in human rights and social policies, as Latvia undertook progressive legislative and policy reforms to promote equality and inclusivity. These efforts were particularly evident in the strides made towards gender equality, the protection of minority rights, and the introduction of legal frameworks to safeguard these groups. The foreign policy arena saw Latvia actively consolidating its position as a staunch defender of democratic values, demonstrating unwavering support for Ukraine and adopting a robust stance against Russian aggression, underlined by a blend of diplomatic initiatives and tangible support measures. On the economic front, the government implemented policies aimed at fostering sustainable growth, encouraging innovation, and facilitating deeper integration with the European market, while simultaneously ensuring the security and robustness of national infrastructures. Furthermore, there was a marked focus on nurturing a vibrant civil society, actively promoting public engagement in the governance process, and fortifying the pillars of democratic institutions. Overall, the year 2023 marked a pivotal phase in Latvia’s political evolution, as the nation adeptly navigated the intricacies of international politics, reinforcing its commitment to democratic principles, human rights, and a steadfast, pro-Western stance.
References
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- LSM.lv. (2023). Government pushes Istanbul Convention toward ratification. Eng.lsm.lv; LSM. https://eng.lsm.lv/article/politics/politics/31.10.2023-government-pushes-istanbul-convention-toward-ratification.a529840/
- Council of Europe. (2021, June 7). The Latvian Constitutional Court finds that the provisions of the Istanbul Convention comply with the Latvian Constitution. Istanbul Convention Action against Violence against Women and Domestic Violence; Council of Europe. https://coe.int/en/web/istanbul-convention/-/the-latvian-constitutional-court-finds-that-the-provisions-of-the-istanbul-convention-comply-with-the-latvian-constitution
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