Latvia

Abstract

Latvia is a multi-ethnic country where economic geography and history have led to a population of different ethnic groups. Therefore, it is important to pay attention to the awareness issues of citizenship in the Latvian society. Since the restoration of independence in 1991, Latvia is experiencing a heavy and protracted social change. Youth unemployment, overall social inequality, limited opportunities for youth participation in political decision making, the risk of poverty for many groups of young people – these are just few of the aspects determining the social topicality on the Latvian and EU level. Young people were one of the most socially vulnerable groups, especially in the post-crisis years, when a rapid increase of unemployment dropped the income and the capacity of youth and their families. The increasing poverty and social exclusion among young people is higher than in other age groups. In this chapter, we are reflecting on today’s Latvian youth citizenship activity, and in addition to that, we are trying to understand the quality of the direction facing them or others. We are updating the crucially important question what process has taken place in Latvia – assimilation or integration process. Active citizenship is one of the most important steps towards healthy societies especially in a new democratic country such as Latvia. Challenges of the present and future in Latvia democracy include further promotion and development throughout Latvian society of knowledge and attitudes necessary for effective and responsible citizenship in Latvia.