Against the background of the Russian threat, security will become a priority of the country's domestic policy.
President of Latvia Egils Levits calls for increased defense spending and the introduction of joint military service for the country's citizens, regardless of gender, to counteract risks emanating from Russia, writes Reuters.
Riga plans until 2025 increase the defense budget from 2 to 2.5% of GDP. With these funds, it is planned to build additional military bases for the deployment of troops of NATO allies.
“Security is the priority of our policy today. 2.5% of GDP may not be enough, and we should be ready for that,” says Levits, calling for an increase in defense spending to 3%.
Latvian Defense Minister Artis Pabriks > believes that compulsory military service, which was abandoned in 2006, should be returned to the country. Both men and women should serve.
“I think there should be equality in this matter, and I support this idea (of joint military service) for all Latvian citizens of a certain age,” he said.< /p>
It is planned to introduce joint service in the army within five years, Pabriks said in an interview with BNS. From January 1, 2023, the first stage will begin, in which it will be possible to participate voluntarily.
The duration of military service is expected to be 11 months. Men between the ages of 18 and 27 will be called up for military service. Women will be able to serve voluntarily.
Joint military service will increase the number of people with military skills in the reserve. Pabriks urged not to associate the reform with compulsory service, noting that Latvia will continue to have a professional army.
Both proposals – on increasing spending and military service – should be considered by the parliament.
