Ministry proposes state of emergency in Latvia's eastern border region

Latvia's Climate and Energy Ministry (KEM), overseen politically by the National Alliance, has prepared a draft order proposing a state of emergency in the country's eastern border region, covering the health care, energy supply and water management sectors. The justification cited is the risk of escalating Russian military activity.

According to the draft's explanatory note, drones and other unidentified objects are being detected with growing frequency in Latvian airspace and near the state border, posing potential risks to public safety, people's health and critical infrastructure. Temporary legal provisions are said to be needed to keep services and companies operating without interruption until permanent rules are developed.

Timeline and responsible bodies

The emergency status would apply until December 1 this year. The Defence Ministry is proposed as the coordinating authority, with the Health Ministry sharing responsibility for the health sector and KEM overseeing energy and water services.

Working hours and pay changes

Employees at energy and water utilities who maintain continuous service, respond to accidents and restore infrastructure could work overtime, with combined hours capped at 60 per week. Increased overtime and night-shift pay would apply, along with risk allowances during an orange-level airspace threat warning. Similar rules would cover emergency medical staff and hospital workers. During an orange warning issued by the National Armed Forces, heads of medical institutions could require staff to continue working past their shift if a safe handover isn't possible.

Additional measures

Extra costs incurred by regulated public service providers to maintain critical functions could be included in their tariffs, while energy and water sector expenses could also be covered from the state's contingency budget. During an orange warning, sick leave certificates could be issued, extended or closed remotely if an in-person visit isn't safe. Medical residents and trainees would generally be required to report to their placements unless evacuation is ordered, while retaining the right to refuse if their life or health would be directly endangered.

The Health Ministry, together with KEM, must conduct a comprehensive review of the state of emergency by January 15, 2027. The draft order has been submitted for interagency approval until Monday, August 31.