Rinkēvičs in Aglona: security is a shared responsibility for all Latvians

Latvian President Edgars Rinkēvičs addressed the congregation at Aglona Basilica on Saturday, August 15, during the Feast of the Assumption of the Blessed Virgin Mary, speaking about the country's security situation. He said the global security environment has grown more complex and that safeguarding the nation is no longer solely the task of state institutions but a duty shared by every resident.

The president noted that security concerns sometimes force people to adjust daily plans — sleeping less or arriving somewhere later than intended. Still, he said, the most important thing is to stay safe and healthy, by looking after both oneself and others.

Warning of new incidents

Rinkēvičs stressed that airspace is currently under threat not only in Latvia or the Latgale region but worldwide, and acknowledged that incidents similar to those already experienced could happen again. He thanked the services that work daily to ensure security, including during the festival.

He called for finding a middle path between alarm and indifference, favoring calm, purposeful action — including a willingness to move to a safe location when needed, followed by reflection on how to reduce feelings of insecurity in similar situations in the future.

Call for unity and tolerance

Rinkēvičs warned against the hatred present in society, which he said is amplified by anonymity on social media, stressing that hostility toward any group — regardless of ethnicity, race or religious belief — undermines the country's development and unity. He recalled that Latvia's Constitution enshrines freedom of conscience and speech along with respect for the individual, and urged everyone living in Latvia to respect its culture and language.

The president thanked clergy and worshippers for supporting those in need of help, particularly spiritual support. The Aglona Basilica festival ran from August 11 to 15, drawing thousands of pilgrims from across Latvia.