Survey: 66% of Latvia's population supports sanctions against Russia

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In Latvia, 66% of the population generally supports economic sanctions against Russia, according to a SKDS and Society Integration Foundation survey data published April 14.

52% of respondents support sanctions regardless of how much they would affect their well-being. Meanwhile, 27% of respondents do not support sanctions against Russia.

Of the people of Latvia who support the sanctions imposed against Russia following the invasion of Ukraine, 3% support them on the condition that they do not increase expenses by more than €200 per month, 4% – by more than €100 per month, 7% –  by more than €50 per month. 

Sanctions are more often supported by younger respondents, those who speak Latvian in the family, respondents with higher income levels, as well as those who generally do not support Russia's invasion of Ukraine.

“We see that more than half of the people of Latvia are prepared to express solidarity with Ukraine and support for the values of democracy, not only in words but also when it directly impacts everyday costs. In addition, society does indeed demonstrate genuine cohesion in its support, as it is prepared to support sanctions even if they affect individual levels of well-being. [..] Approximately 35% of Latvia's population has a friend, acquaintance or relative from Ukraine,[..],” said Zaiga Pūce, director of the SIF secretariat.

Latvian Employers' Confederation Director General Līga Meņģelsone commented that employers were in favor of international sanctions imposed against Russia and Belarus. “Of course, this is also a problem for Latvian companies, but employers are prepared for change and are aware that problems can be overcome by working together with the government, social, and cooperation partners. Without hesitation, possible scenarios should be developed with a clear action plan to address energy independence, inflation, the fall in purchasing capacity, and other relevant issues,” Meņģelsone said.

The survey was conducted by the research center SKDS during the period from March 17 to March 21. Over 1,000 residents of Latvia aged 18 to 75 participated in the survey.

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