Political scientist names two factors that could boost turnout in Latvia's parliamentary election

Political scientist Juris Rozenvalds says that while turnout during the first days of advance voting in Latvia's Saeima election has been active, it is still too early to draw conclusions about overall voter turnout.

According to Rozenvalds, if turnout ultimately proves higher than in previous elections, this could be linked to the current security situation, which may be prompting people to become more civically engaged. He also notes that improved access to election-related information could play a role — in the past, some residents cited a lack of information as a reason for not voting, whereas this time opportunities to learn about the election process are considerably broader. The overall increase in available information could also affect turnout, the political scientist says, though he again stresses that firm conclusions cannot yet be drawn.

Regional voting figures

In Riga, 20,807 voters, or 3.47% of those eligible, have cast their ballots so far. This figure includes 4,907 people living abroad who registered to vote by mail. The Central Election Commission explains that for postal voting, a person is counted as having voted once ballot materials have been sent to them and they have not personally voted in person or deposited their ballot at a polling station.

In Latgale, 3,393 voters, or 1.85% of those eligible, have voted so far, while in Kurzeme 3,693 people, or 2.12% of eligible voters, have deposited their ballots.

Throughout this week's working days, voters can deposit their ballots at any of the 933 polling stations across Latvia. Election day itself is set for Saturday.