Saeima committee proposes Latvian citizenship for Ukrainian canoeist Danylo Michuda

The Citizenship, Migration and Social Cohesion Committee of the Saeima, Latvia's parliament, has proposed a separate bill to recognise Ukrainian citizen Danilo Michuda as a citizen of Latvia. He is a canoe paddler who has lived in Latvia since 2022, when he moved there after Russia launched its full-scale war in Ukraine. If the Saeima backs the bill, the athlete could represent Latvia in international competitions in the future.

The committee has asked for the bill to be added to Thursday's Saeima agenda and declared urgent. Lawmakers propose sending it only to the committee responsible and considering it in the first reading during the same session, without a repeat review in committee.

What the explanatory note says

The bill's explanatory note states that Michuda came to Latvia to continue his sporting career. He trains at the Limbaži Municipality Sports School, is learning Latvian and is integrating into Latvian society. The athlete wants to link his future professional and personal life with Latvia, and to represent the country in international competitions and at the Olympic Games.

The note also lists his 2025 results: 12th place in the 500 metres at the European U-23 Championships, 33rd in the 1000 metres at the U-23 World Championships, and 29th in the 1000 metres at a World Cup event.

Support from sports organisations

The Latvian Canoe Federation and the Latvian Olympic Committee back his admission to Latvian citizenship. They point to his potential to represent Latvia in international competitions in the future, including the 2028 Los Angeles Olympic Games.

The committee concluded that Michuda is purposefully building a lasting bond with Latvia and, through his sporting activity, can contribute to the development of Latvian sport and to the country's representation in international sport. The bill would grant him Latvian citizenship while he keeps his Ukrainian citizenship.