Expert: Budget planning should also address income equalization, not just spending
When preparing the 2027 state budget and medium-term fiscal framework, the government and parliament should consider not only spending levels but also which professions and functions the state chooses to fund more generously, writes Edgars Voļskis in an LSM Diaspora opinion piece.
As Latvia prepares its 2027 state budget and medium-term fiscal framework, public discussion should extend beyond the traditional questions of how much the state spends and how much revenue can potentially be generated through fiscal space, according to an opinion piece by Edgars Voļskis published in LSM's Diaspora section.
Not just how much, but on what
The author emphasizes that just as important as the overall level of spending is the question of which specific state functions and areas deserve greater funding. This requires assessing which professions are currently a priority for Latvia from the perspective of society and national development.
The question of a dignified life
The central question raised is whether current social and economic policy allows people working in professions essential to society to live a financially secure and dignified life. This touches on the broader theme of income equalization within society and which socioeconomic tools could be used to achieve that goal.
The piece calls on decision-makers — both the current and the next government, as well as parliament — to take a broader approach to budget and fiscal framework planning, one that includes not only numerical calculations but also choices about values and priorities regarding which sectors and professions receive greater state support.
