How the Latvian premier’s party came out on top in the general election
The general election in Latvia was interesting for several motives. In the first place, it was shaped by Russian wars in Ukraine as well as the subsequent divisions within the country’s substantial population of ethnic Russian minority. The country saw a significant change away from the pro-Moscow political party which is so loved by the population. It is an extremely encouraging development towards Latvia. This election shows Latvians are in favor of the shift away from their Soviet background to a more European future. This is an evidence that Latvians have joined forces in defense of their nation’s freedom and sovereignty, regardless of tensions from Russia.
1. There is a cause for this recent victory of centralist parties in Latvian’s parliament elections?
Latvia’s most recent elections for parliamentary representation saw victory for the center-right Unity party, led by Premier Laimdota Straujuma. The victory came despite a fierce contest from the left-wing National Alliance, which had held the lead in the surveys prior to the elections. The success of centrist parties in Latvia is due to a variety of factors. First, Latvia’s economy is flourishing, expanding by around four percent annually in 2015. It has also made people more likely to favor the incumbent government. In addition, National Alliance National Alliance has been involved in several scandals over recent times that have damaged its image.
2. What was the impact of Russia’s war in Ukraine and the divisions among Latvia’s Russian ethnic minority in the outcome of elections?
The political party of Laimdota Strujuma, Latvia’s current premier, came out with the top spot in the most recent general elections. The results of the election were influenced by the Russian war in Ukraine and by the divisions among the ethnic Latvian Russian minority. The conflict in Ukraine led to increased tensions among Russia and the West, which had a ripple impact in Latvia. To defend Latvia from Russia, there increased Latvian citizens feeling that they should have closer ties to NATO as well as the West. This increased support was for Straujuma political parties that are open to closer ties to NATO and the West.
A Quick Summary
The results of Latvia’s elections show there’s a divide across the country on what to do about Russia. The ruling party has adopted an uncompromising stance towards Russia, while pro-Moscow parties have been unable to win the elections. This demonstrates that Latvia is a country which is trying to establish its place in the post-Soviet world.