Congratulations – you’ve just been selected in Latvia’s newest and most unexpected lottery. The grand prize? A place in the country’s mandatory national defense service. While this may not be the reward many young Latvians dream of, it reflects a broader shift in the nation’s priorities as it responds to changing geopolitical realities. Our author Pēteris will have to serve sooner or later.
Language and Identity: Defining National Boundaries
A pivotal moment in Latvia’s recent history came in 2012, when a referendum proposed making Russian the second official state language.
This initiative had its roots in 2010, when the nationalist party National Alliance “Visu Latvijai!” – “Tēvzemei un Brīvībai/LNNK” (“All for Latvia!” – “For the Fatherland and Freedom/LNNK”) advocated for Latvian to be the sole language of instruction in schools, effectively eliminating minority language education. In response, the youth movement “Vienota Latvija” (“United Latvia”) proposed granting official status to the Russian language.
A constitutional change of this nature required a nationwide referendum. While enough signatures were collected to put the proposal to a vote, it was ultimately rejected by the population. Since then, Latvian has remained the sole official language, reaffirming its role national identity.
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The Shadow of Ukraine: A Catalyst for Change
The turning point in recent years came with Russia’s full-scale invasion of Ukraine. The invasion reignited concerns in Latvian society, especially among the youth, about the lasting Soviet legacy and Russia’s enduring authoritaritarianism.
WWII Soviet Victory Monument in Riga, built in 1985 to commemorate Red Army forces. Photo: Dāvis Kļaviņš, flickr.com
In response, Latvia passed a series of laws aimed at distancing itself from Russian influence. These included dismantling of Soviet-era monuments, imposing trade restrictions, regulating Russian and Belarusian-registered vehicles, and requiring Latvian language exams for Russian citizens living in Latvia.Most recently, Latvia, along with other Baltic states, disconnected from the Russian electricity grid and joined the unified European network – an act symbolizing a decisive geopolitical shift.
Latvia’s history has long been shaped by its complex relationship with Russia. From the Tsarist rule before 1918 to Soviet occupation during and after World War II, the shadow of the past lingers. Today, that influence manifests not through direct control, but through cyber attacks, disinformation campaigns, and the presence of Russia’s so-called “Shadow Fleet” in the Baltic Sea.
Balancing National Duty and Personal Aspirations
In 2024, in light of growing security concerns, Latvia reinstated an 11-month compulsory national defense service for men aged 18 to 27. Women may also volunteer to serve. While this decision underscores a national commitment to readiness, it also introduces personal dilemmas for many young Latvians.
On one hand, service comes with practical benefits. Recruits are paid, they can return home on holidays, and receive free university education afterwards. For high school graduates still considering their future paths, military service offers a structured and potentially rewarding interim option.
However, for those who have already set their academic or career goals—like myself—this obligation can feel disruptive. I recognize the importance of national defense, but I believe the implementation of the program could be improved to better align with young people’s lives and ambitions.
First Impressions
When I first read about the decision, it felt like hitting a wall. I was even a little angry that I’d have to dedicate almost a year to it. Personally, I don’t think this service is something I would want to do. I’d be much more useful as a future chemist because, to be honest, I don’t consider myself a classic manual labor soldier, I am more definitely a doer of intellectual work.
Latvian flag patch on military uniform. Photo: Andris Skrastiņš,Saeima Public Relations Office
When discussing with my peers about this additional duty, the feelings are mixed and the society is divided in approximately 3 parts. One part strongly supports it and even joins voluntarily. The second part is quite strongly opposed to this service. And then there is the part I find myself in – I definitely support the introduction of the service, but I personally would be more useful in the defense of Latvia in other ways.
Witnessing Change: National Defense and Societal Dynamics
Latvia’s reintroduction of conscription is part of a broader series of measures aimed at reinforcing its independence. The government has pressed forward, despite opposition. Protests and criticism came especially from the Russian-speaking community, which makes up about 24% of the population.
The steps taken to cut economic and energy ties with Russia, reinforce Latvian as the sole official language, and remove Soviet-era symbols are more than political gestures; they are efforts to define a unified national identity. These decisions, though often contentious, were prompted by a need to respond decisively to external threats and internal divisions.
While I rarely interact with the Russian-speaking population—mainly because I do not speak Russian and my hobbies, such as singing in a Latvian choir, are culturally specific—many Latvians live and work in mixed communities. The divergence of experiences and perspectives reflects the ongoing complexity of national unity in a multiethnic society.
A New Chapter for Latvian Defense
Latvia’s embrace of mandatory military service is not just a policy change – it is a statement of intent. Confronted with regional instability and the legacy of foreign domination, the country has chosen self-reliance and solidarity as guiding principles.
Severing ties with Russia, bolstering the status of the Latvian language, and investing in national defense – mark a significant moment in the country’s journey toward greater independence. They also reveal the growing pains of a society reconciling its past with a desire for a secure, sovereign future.
As Latvia moves forward, the effectiveness of its defense reforms will depend not only on legislation and infrastructure. Public support, inclusivity, and adaptability will be just as crucial. The current generation, called to serve, stands at the crossroads of history and responsibility. How we respond will shape Latvia’s role in the region – and its sense of self – for years to come.
