Latvia Will Not Accept New Migrants, Says FM

Foreign Minister outlines strict migration stance

Latvian Foreign Minister Baiba Braže stated during the annual foreign policy debate in the Saeima on January 29 that Latvia “will not accept new migrants,” making the government’s position on migration policy clear.

Braže emphasised that Latvia firmly rejects illegal migration and has strengthened border protection measures. She noted that the border fence has been completed and thanked border guards, national guards and other services for preventing more than 12,000 instrumentalised migrants from entering Latvia.

The minister added that Latvia is prepared to share its experience with other European countries under the EU Solidarity Mechanism but will not take in additional migrants or bear related financial costs.

No participation in migrant relocation schemes

Braže stressed that Latvia will not participate in new migrant redistribution arrangements within the European Union. Instead, the country intends to provide support and assistance to other member states through expertise and cooperation.

The statement comes amid ongoing EU discussions about migration management and asylum system reforms, with Latvia consistently advocating for strengthened external border controls.

Call for diaspora to return home

Addressing Latvian citizens living abroad, Braže highlighted that more than one fifth of Latvian citizens reside temporarily or permanently outside the country.

She stated that Latvia seeks the return of its citizens and is working through embassies and domestic initiatives to maintain contact with the diaspora, facilitate return and leverage their skills and experience for national development.

Preparations for EU Council Presidency

Looking ahead, Braže confirmed that preparations for Latvia’s Presidency of the Council of the European Union in the second half of 2028 have begun. Among potential initiatives is a renewed programme to translate Latvian literature into English, building on the success of the “Latvia 100” centenary programme in 2018.

As International Investment experts report, Latvia’s firm migration stance underscores its focus on border security and demographic consolidation. At the same time, efforts to encourage the return of expatriate citizens may play a role in addressing labour market pressures and shaping the country’s medium-term economic trajectory.