Polling stations across Latvia opened on Saturday as approximately 1.5 million citizens participate in the nation’s 11th parliamentary election since regaining independence from the Soviet Union in 1991. The vote to fill all 100 seats in the Saeima, contested by 14 political parties under a proportional system, is being overshadowed by anxiety over the cost of living and increasing national security threats.
Prime Minister Andris Kulbergs, who assumed office in May following the collapse of the previous government, enters the contest as the frontrunner. His center-right United List alliance currently leads in polling data, though analysts anticipate a weakened mandate for his coalition. Populist groups, including the Sovereign Power/Young Latvians Alliance and the Latvia First party, are gaining traction by capitalizing on public frustration and advocating for a less confrontational stance toward Moscow.
Security fears are particularly acute given Latvia’s proximity to Russia and Belarus. The ongoing war in Ukraine is viewed as a direct threat to the Baltic state, which hosts a significant ethnic Russian-speaking minority. Despite these tensions, no major political faction is proposing a departure from Latvia’s strategic alignment with the European Union and NATO.
In a show of support, four German Eurofighter jets have been deployed over Latvian airspace to bolster air defense during the electoral period, responding to an official request from Riga. Latvia remains one of Kyiv’s staunchest allies and has legally mandated that it dedicate at least 5% of its GDP to defense, a commitment that further strains public resources.
Beyond foreign policy, domestic economic hardships are a central theme. Voters are grappling with high inflation, stagnant wages, a sluggish economy, and a healthcare system under pressure. These challenges are compounded by persistent emigration and a rapidly aging demographic profile.
Partial election results are anticipated later on Saturday, with preliminary official figures expected on Sunday. Following the count, political negotiations to form a new government are likely to begin, though they are expected to be lengthy and complex.
5% of GDP on defense is huge for a small economy. It’s impressive commitment, but do we have enough people to staff it?
Does anyone think the populist parties will actually gain seats? They seem loud online but maybe not in person.
Inflation is killing us. Security matters, but I just want my grocery bill to drop before I worry about borders.
The German Eurofighter deployment is a bold move. Hopefully, it reassures voters rather than scaring them further.