Five Ways to Help Strengthen Latvia Without Military Experience
News outlet TVNET has compiled five ways residents without military backgrounds can contribute to Latvia's security and societal resilience, from volunteering to joining the National Guard. The article was produced in cooperation with LMT.
Latvia's security and defence do not rest on soldiers alone: societal resilience also depends on residents who are ready to help others and not stand aside in a crisis. On 13 November 2026, the news portal TVNET published an overview of five ways to contribute to strengthening the country without military training. The material was produced in cooperation with LMT.
Volunteering
One of the most accessible routes is volunteer work, for example at charity events, packing food parcels, animal shelters or social projects. Even a few hours a month can count. Opportunities can be found on the Brīvprātīgie.lv platform, on the websites of municipalities and non-governmental organisations, as well as through the "Ulubele" animal shelter or the Latvian Red Cross.
Support for older people
Seniors who live alone can be helped with phone calls, walks, grocery shopping or trips to the doctor. In the "Sarunas ar senioriem" (Conversations with Seniors) initiative run by the association "Ascendum", volunteers visit residents of social care centres. Help is also offered by the Latvian Red Cross and the Latvian Samaritan Association.
Community life
People can join neighbourhood clean-ups, residents' associations and councils, or municipal community projects, including the Big Clean-up (Lielā talka). The first step is to check the local municipality's website.
First aid and crisis readiness
Anyone can sign up for first aid courses through the Latvija.lv e-service "First Aid Training". The Ministry of Defence guide "72 Hours: What to Do in a Crisis" covers an emergency bag, food and water supplies, documents and a family action plan. Information is also available on the website of the State Fire and Rescue Service.
National Guard
The Zemessardze, Latvia's volunteer National Guard, accepts Latvian citizens from the age of 18 who meet health, fitness, state language and other legal requirements. Prior military experience is not required. Under the National Guard Law, members are usually involved in tasks and training for up to 30 days a year. Those interested can call 1811 or apply at esizemessargs.lv. Civilian specialists, for instance in medicine, logistics or IT, can also ask about using their professional skills for defence needs.
