Researchers: Saeima plenary sessions sometimes resemble a show; deputies should meet voters more often
Experts studying the work of Saeima deputies urge politicians to meet voters more often and explain their work outside the parliamentary chamber in order to increase public trust in the Saeima.
Latvian political analysts warn that Saeima plenary sessions sometimes resemble a show rather than real parliamentary work. Arnis Vērzemnieks, managing partner of "Vērzemnieks Batalauska Public Affairs" and author of a study on the work of Saeima deputies, said in the programme "Spried ar Delfi" that Thursday sessions can be just a performance. He called on deputies to meet voters more often and talk about their work outside the parliament's rostrum.
His view was echoed by Artūrs Bikovs, a researcher at the society "Sabiedrība par atklātību – Delna" (Delna). Both experts believe such practice could help build public trust in parliament, which is currently low in Latvia. They say deputies need to communicate more with citizens, explaining their decisions and work not only during parliamentary sittings.
The researchers argue that a permanent dialogue with voters is essential to reduce the gap between politicians and society. Latvia already sees low trust in parliament, so changes in deputies' communication approach are needed. Vērzemnieks and Bikovs urge politicians to be more open, regularly attend meetings with citizens and more actively explain their work outside the Saeima building.
Such an approach, in the experts' view, could not only improve public opinion of parliament but also encourage greater citizen involvement in governance. For now, however, deputies' everyday work often takes place without broader public participation, and researchers see this as one of the reasons why trust in the Saeima remains low.
