Uzulnieks: Most Effective Way to Prevent Poverty Is Strengthening Skills and Opportunities

During an informal meeting of EU employment and social affairs ministers in Ballina, Ireland, Latvian Welfare Minister Reinis Uzulnieks emphasized that the most effective way to combat poverty is to strengthen people's skills and knowledge, expand their opportunities, and reduce structural barriers. In a discussion on poverty reduction, he highlighted the importance of creating opportunities for seniors to participate in social activities. Latvia supports initiatives such as senior schools and promotes their accessibility in regions. It was noted that Latvia has supported 35 senior school projects nationwide.

The meeting's agenda included three discussion sessions: on tackling and preventing poverty, on implementing legislation to promote worker protection, and on the participation of persons with disabilities in the labor market. In the second session, Latvia shared its experience with support measures that promote the employment of people with disabilities. Special attention was paid to workplace adaptation and raising awareness among society and employers about the importance of an inclusive work environment.

During the meeting, Uzulnieks also met with Moldovan Minister of Labor and Social Protection Natalia Plugaru. They discussed Moldova-EU relations and possibilities for closer cooperation between the employment services of the two countries.

The Latvian delegation was led by the Welfare Minister. It also included the minister's advisor Oskars Kastēns and Ineta Tāre, director of the Ministry's International Cooperation and EU Policy Department.