What are the next steps for Latvia after the election?

The election of the general elections in Latvia was interesting for a number of reasons. It was first shaped by the conflict between Russia and Ukraine and also the divisions that resulted from it among Latvia’s vast minority ethnic Russian minority. This led to a major change away from the pro-Moscow political party which has become so loved by the population. This is a hugely positive development for Latvia. This election shows Latvians want to move of their Soviet background to a more European future. This is also an indication that Latvians are united in their determination to safeguard their country’s independence and sovereignty in spite of the pressures Russia has been putting on it.

1. What explains the success of the centrist party in Latvia’s recent elections to the Latvian parliament?

Latvia’s most recent elections for parliamentary representation witnessed a win to the Unity party led by Prime Minister Laimdota Straujuma. This came in spite of a very strong competition from the right-wing National Alliance, which had led in surveys prior to the elections. The strength of the centrist parties in Latvia can be attributed to a variety of elements. First of all, the economy has performed fairly very well over the past few years, which saw GDP grow by about 4percent in 2015. It has also made people more likely to support the incumbent government. Secondly this is because this has meant that the National Alliance has been embroiled with a variety of scandals over the past few months in which have damaged their image.

2. What impact did Russia’s war with Ukraine and the divisions in Latvia’s ethnic Russian group affect the outcome?

The party of Laimdota Strujuma in Latvia’s new pm, emerged winning in the most recently held general election. The results of the election were influenced by the Russian war in Ukraine and by the divisions within the Latvian ethnic Russian minority. Russia’s invasion of Ukraine created tensions between Russia as well as Western countries and had a detrimental impact on Latvia. In order to defend Latvia from Russia, there increased Latvian citizens thinking that the country ought to be closer to NATO as well as the West. This increased support was for Straujuma parties, who are pro-closer ties to NATO and the West.

Quick Summary

The elections results in Latvia show that the country is divided over how to deal with Russia. Even though the ruling political party took the strongest stance against Russian, pro-Moscow parties fell in polls. This shows Latvia is a nation in search of its way in the post-Soviet world.