Latvia Plans to Stop Recognizing Russian Education Diplomas

The Latvian authorities are considering an initiative to stop recognizing educational qualifications obtained in Russia after February 24, 2022, due to concerns over national security risks, according to Latvia's news service LSM.

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The initiative, introduced in Latvia’s parliament in September 2024, targets approximately 110 Latvian citizens currently studying in Russia and Belarus. Politicians argue these students present a potential threat to national security.

Ilze Indriksone, speaking for the bill’s authors, emphasized the importance of preventing national security risks associated with education obtained in Russia and Belarus. Latvia’s Ministry of Education supports fully prohibiting education from these countries and making diplomas from Russia and Belarus invalid in Latvia.

Baiba Riminia, head of Latvia's Academic Information Center, notes significant practical challenges. About 110 Latvian citizens currently study in Russia and Belarus, including university and secondary education students. The new law could negatively impact their future opportunities if their diplomas are invalidated.

Earlier, International Investment reported Latvia tightening measures for Russian and Belarusian citizens, including restricting real estate transactions and tightening visa regulations.

The final details of the law are still being discussed in Latvia's parliament, with further decisions expected soon.