Study: Soviet legacy still influences Latvian voters' values

A newly published study reveals that Latvian voters' values and their alignment with political spectrums are still significantly shaped by historical experience and upbringing. One of the study's authors, political scientist Mārtiņš Hiršs, stated in an interview with Latvian Radio that the Soviet legacy is particularly evident among older voters, who more often support a stronger hand in politics.

The study analyzes how various factors, including life experience during the Soviet era, influence voters' perceptions of politics and society. Hiršs emphasized that this influence is not uniform but is especially visible in issues related to the role of the state and authority. The older generation's desire for a stronger hand, he argued, stems directly from their experience under the Soviet system.

The findings offer insight into Latvia's political landscape, demonstrating that historical events continue to shape contemporary political preferences. This could be an important consideration for politicians and parties when devising their strategies.