Latvians react skeptically to PM Kulbergs' plan to freeze officials' salaries

Prime Minister Andris Kulbergs (AS) announced on Tuesday that salaries for a range of public administration officials will not increase next year, a statement that has triggered significant skepticism among social media users. Many commenters believe the decision is tied to the upcoming elections and could be reversed once a new parliament is seated.

Several users described the move as "pre-election theater," predicting salaries will be "unfrozen" as soon as a new Saeima begins work. Others expressed doubt that the promise will actually hold over time.

Questions about other forms of compensation

Some commenters pointed out that the announcement only covers base monthly salaries, not other elements of compensation such as allowances and bonuses. Ironic remarks suggested that while salaries may be frozen, bonuses could keep growing. Under the current remuneration law, compensation includes more than just monthly salary, and for Saeima members, salary and allowances are disclosed as separate public categories.

Other commenters argued that freezing salaries alone is not enough, suggesting the number of civil servants should be reduced instead of merely halting pay increases.

Confusion over the term itself

The term "salary freeze" itself caused some confusion, with a number of people interpreting it literally and asking whether it means payments would be suspended for a time. In fact, the measure refers to halting growth in the base monthly salary, meaning it would not increase next year.

Under the current system, changes to the base salary are calculated using a legally defined formula that accounts for average wage growth and inflation. For 2026, the increase had already been set at 0%, keeping salaries at 2025 levels. If the plan for 2027 goes ahead, that level would remain unchanged for another year.