As Latvia approaches its next parliamentary elections, the political party “Latvia First” (Latvija Pirmajā Vietā, LPV) is attracting increasing attention. In several public opinion polls, the party has demonstrated a steady rise in support, positioning itself as one of the key contenders for a leading role in the next Saeima. This development reflects a broader shift in Latvian politics, where voters are increasingly searching for alternatives to the long-established political mainstream.

The current political environment in Latvia is shaped by several long-term challenges, including modest economic growth, demographic decline, and widespread dissatisfaction with administrative inefficiency and bureaucratic complexity. At the same time, continued emigration and labour shortages place additional pressure on the national economy and welfare system. In this context, LPV presents itself as a political force advocating decisive reforms, economic competitiveness, and stronger national cohesion.

At the core of LPV’s message is the principle of “Latvia first”, which emphasizes the consistent prioritization of national and citizens’ interests in all policy areas. The party argues that Latvia should strengthen its sovereignty while maintaining close cooperation with strategic partners, particularly the United States, as well as within NATO and the European Union. This dual approach is presented as the foundation of both national security and long-term economic stability.

A key element of LPV’s platform is societal unity. The party stresses that all Latvian citizens, regardless of linguistic or ethnic background, should form a single political nation. In a society often marked by political and cultural divisions, this message of inclusion and cohesion is positioned as an alternative to polarization.

At the same time, LPV is clearly conservative in its social outlook. The party places strong emphasis on traditional family values, Christian ethics, and demographic renewal. Its programme includes substantial financial support for families, such as significant birth grants, housing assistance, and expanded healthcare coverage, including fully state-funded infertility treatment. The party argues that these measures are essential to reverse population decline and encourage the return of Latvian citizens who have emigrated abroad.

LPV also takes a firm stance on migration policy. Given Latvia’s position as an external border of the European Union, the party emphasizes the importance of strict border control and controlled migration. This issue is framed not only as a matter of security, but also as a key factor in preserving social stability and national cohesion.

Security policy is one of LPV’s central priorities. Due to the ongoing geopolitical tensions in the region and the persistent threat from Russia, the party argues that national defense must be treated as an absolute priority above all other policy areas. These risks are viewed as long-term and structural, requiring sustained and significant public investment in defense capabilities, internal security, and border protection. According to LPV, national security is the essential precondition for all other areas of development, including economic growth and social welfare.

In economic policy, LPV promotes a radical shift toward a simpler and more competitive tax system. The party proposes a flat 10% tax rate for corporate income, capital gains, and self-employed individuals. It also supports reducing VAT on essential goods and services and abolishing property tax on a primary residence. These measures are designed to attract investment, stimulate entrepreneurship, and improve Latvia’s regional competitiveness.

Beyond taxation, LPV envisions Latvia as a regional hub for information technology, fintech, and artificial intelligence. The party advocates reducing regulatory burdens, modernizing public administration through digital and AI-based tools, and strengthening public–private partnerships for large infrastructure projects. It also supports closer economic cooperation with the United States and increased private investment in strategic national assets.

On security and foreign policy, LPV emphasizes close alignment with NATO and strong support for Ukraine’s European integration. The party also highlights the need to combat corruption in public procurement and major state projects, arguing that greater transparency is essential for public trust and economic efficiency.

Political observers note that LPV’s rising popularity may be linked to growing public demand for more decisive governance, lower taxes, and stronger national security policies. However, Latvia’s electoral system and coalition-based politics mean that converting polling success into parliamentary dominance remains a complex challenge.

Overall, “Latvia First” positions itself as a movement combining economic liberalism with conservative social values and a strong national security agenda. For international observers, the party represents a broader European trend of political movements seeking to integrate economic competitiveness, national identity, and security concerns into a unified political programme. Whether LPV will translate its growing support into electoral success remains one of the key questions in Latvia’s upcoming political cycle.