EC Rule of Law Report: Progress in Latvia's Judicial Independence, but Reforms Incomplete

Judiciary

In its annual rule of law report, the European Commission (EC) found that Latvia's courts operate effectively and measures are being taken to strengthen independence. Public and business perception of judicial independence has slightly improved – in 2026, 50% of citizens and 52% of businesses rated it as fairly high or very high (up from 42% and 41% in 2025).

However, the process to protect judges from undue political influence remains unfinished. A 2022 recommendation to introduce safeguards in the appointment of Supreme Court judges has not been fully implemented: a bill allowing appeals to the Constitutional Court against parliamentary rejections of candidates has been submitted but not yet adopted. The EC calls for advancing this legislative process.

The plan to expand the role of the Judicial Council in court administration – including court organization, judicial careers, and budget planning – is seen as positive, strengthening judicial self-governance. Personnel issues are being addressed by redirecting funds from vacant judge posts to support staff development; the position of judge's assistant is to be replaced by a court lawyer, raising salary levels.

Access to legal aid in Constitutional Court proceedings has been expanded, and maximum court fees have been introduced. However, concerns remain that litigation costs and compensation caps may limit access for smaller businesses. The review of the Economic Court's jurisdiction is welcomed, but the report highlights the need for specialized knowledge in appellate courts, emphasizing the role of the Judicial Academy.

Checks and Balances

As of January 1, 2026, seven European Court of Human Rights (ECHR) judgments in core cases remained unenforced in Latvia; by June 17, the number rose to eight. The average execution time is one year and six months, with the oldest judgment pending for over three years.

Civil society space remains open, but NGOs report increased negative rhetoric from political actors, including debates on possible withdrawal from the Istanbul Convention. Organizations also face financial pressure and uncertainty over funding mechanisms.

Business confidence in investment protection has grown: 43% of surveyed companies are fairly or very confident (up from 37% in 2025). Main trust barriers are frequent legislative changes and concerns about lawmaking quality. Foreign investors worry that public procurement practices and contract concentration may affect the business environment.

The report highlights planned changes to the ombudsman nomination procedure to broaden candidate sources and to strengthen the independence of Constitutional Court judges by ensuring their decisions do not have adverse consequences after their term ends.