Political discussion reveals: sports get little space in party programs
In a debate hosted by a sports portal, representatives of seven parties acknowledged that election manifestos often mention sports only in passing, though several parties promise broader sports sections in their full platforms.
On Monday, the political discussion "Politiķu dribls" took place, where Sportacentrs.com editor-in-chief Jānis Celmiņš and representatives of seven parties discussed the role of sports in party programs. Although the word "sports" appears frequently in many manifestos, it is mostly part of words like "exports" and "transport." Party representatives explained that limited space in short programs forces sports to take a backseat.
Dāvis Mārtiņš Daugavietis from Jaunā Vienotība admitted that in their 10,000-character program, sports is mentioned only once. However, the party is preparing a longer version with a separate sports section. Daugavietis outlined three initiatives: allowing citizens to donate 1% of their income tax to sports organizations, including sports expenses as deductible, and developing sports infrastructure in regions.
Pēteris Apinis from Zaļo un Zemnieku savienība emphasized that sports is the foundation of health, and his party's program mentions it in the very first point about youth. He stated that every child should have the opportunity to participate in daily sports activities. Apinis added that no one reads the programs, but it is important to know what the party will do.
Andris Čuda from Nacionālā apvienība noted that children's and youth sports are the basis of the party's program, even though sports is not mentioned in the submitted version. He linked a healthy lifestyle to family traditions.
Jāzeps Baško from "Mēs mainām noteikumus" said sports is not mentioned in their program at all. The party advocates for less state interference, criticizing the new Sports Law provisions on a sports registry and fund.
Kaspars Briškens from Progresīvie stated that sports is mentioned multiple times in the long program but not in the short one. The party supports allocating a portion of gambling tax to sports but opposes liberalization of gambling ads.
Apvienotais saraksts has a separate section for education, culture, youth, and sports. Raimonds Bergmanis stressed the need to change society's attitude toward sports and health, noting that health is capital.
Kristaps Krištopāns from Latvija pirmajā vietā said the party promises a new indoor football stadium and support for mass sports. He compared Latvia's sports budget (about 50 million euros) to an NHL team, admitting it is smaller than the league's minimum payroll.
