Latvian Saeima Passes Key Decisions Before Midsummer: NATO Appeal, Drone Compensation, Immigration Law Revisions
In its final spring session before Midsummer, the Saeima called on NATO allies to allocate at least 0.25% of GDP to Ukraine, amended the law to compensate damages from military incidents, while the president returned the Immigration Law for reconsideration. Additionally, the appointment procedure for the State Chancellery director was urgently changed.
The Latvian parliament adopted several significant decisions during its last spring session before the Midsummer holidays.
Appeal to NATO
The Saeima adopted an appeal urging NATO allies to earmark at least 0.25% of their Gross Domestic Product for support to Ukraine. This move is intended to bolster military aid to Kyiv.
Compensation for Military-Related Damages
The law was amended to provide compensation for losses caused by military activities, including incidents involving foreign unmanned aerial vehicles (drones). This covers damage to civilian infrastructure or private property resulting from military operations or drone crashes.
President’s Objections to Immigration Law
President Edgars Rinkēvičs returned the Immigration Law to the Saeima for a second reading. He believes that granting temporary residence permits in exchange for a €150,000 investment is insufficiently developed. The president calls for stricter verification of the origin of funds and proposes considering permits only for real estate purchases by citizens of allied and other friendly countries.
Appointment of State Chancellery Director
The Saeima urgently amended the Civil Service Law to allow the Prime Minister to appoint the director of the State Chancellery without an open competition. This change was criticized by the Progressives party and the public policy center Providus, who warned of risks of political pressure and insufficient transparency.
