Latvia Country Report
Latvia is generally a stable country. The government is expected to continue with market-oriented and pro-European policies. There is no significant terrorist threat. Anti-Semitic and extreme nationalist groups carry out minor acts of terrorism inside the country. Groups such as the National Bolsheviks have turned to violence in the past, trying to create a voice for Latvia’s ethnic Russian population. Crime is on the rise, but generally non-violent. Because foreigners are known to be wealthy, they can become victims of petty theft. Although occasional incidents of attacks on foreign nationals were reported, overall such incidents were rare. Criminals may rob victims of drugs while they are unconscious. Foreign nationals are also victims of fraud in clubs, halls, and bars. Money laundering by criminal organizations has become a serious problem in Russia. Corruption is higher than in most EU countries. Air travel to and from Latvia is considered safe and efficient. Land travel is generally safe, but winter driving conditions can be dangerous. Although there are adequate medical facilities throughout the country, serious and life-threatening injuries require medical evacuation.
Latvia is a member of the European Union, NATO, and the Schengen area.
Last updated: August 14, 2023
Security
Anti-Semitic and ultra-nationalist groups have committed minor acts of terrorism domestically, but do not pose a significant risk to travel. Most of the crimes related to tourists include pickpocketing and pickpocketing. The risk of racially motivated attacks against Africans, Asians, Jews, and Roma is high, and similar attacks have occurred in the past. Protests have sometimes turned violent and led to arrests and disturbances. Russian-Latvian relations have worsened since Russia annexed Crimea in 2014, leading to increased military cooperation within NATO and between the Baltic states.
Last updated: April 27, 2022
Infrastructure
Air travel is safe and compliant with international safety standards.
The highway system is generally good. Side roads may not be paved. Driving in winter is especially dangerous.
At present, only the port of Riga and its grain terminal can effectively serve large bulk carriers to Latvia.
Access to public facilities is good in big cities, but services may be inadequate in rural areas. Broadband is widely available and mobile internet is rapidly increasing in popularity.
There is a growing concern about the threat of cyber attacks that could damage the country’s economy.
Last updated: February 8, 2023
Environment
Summers in Latvia are hot and dry, but winters are harsh due to heavy snow and cold temperatures. Extreme cold and snow storms can create dangerous conditions and threaten your safety. Small, low-impact earthquakes occur sporadically, but do not cause damage or injury.
Last updated: March 2, 2022
Health and Medical
Major health centers are generally equipped with medical facilities, but rural areas may have limited medical facilities. Doctors and hospitals often expect immediate payment for medical services. Basic medical supplies are usually available in pharmacies.
Last updated: September 14, 2022
Political
Latvia is a multi-party parliamentary democratic republic. The prime minister is the head of government and the president acts as the head of government in a largely ceremonial role. The Prime Minister, the Cabinet and the Parliament (Saima) form the government and exercise executive power. The judiciary is independent from the executive and legislative branches. Presidential and parliamentary elections must be held at least once every four years. Parliamentary elections are often held more regularly.
Government formation usually requires a coalition of different political parties. Despite periodic government collapse, government institutions remain largely competent and effective, providing reliable services in most parts of the country.
Last updated: August 14, 2023
