Latvian Interior Minister Jānis Dombrava (National Alliance) has shown strong determination, but his activism has “gone a little over the top,” political scientist Juris Rozenvalds told the LETA news agency, commenting on the minister’s letter to Spain regarding the recent migration crisis in Ceuta, where tens of thousands of people crossed into the Spanish enclave from Morocco over a short period.
According to Rozenvalds, the initiative was the Interior Minister’s own and was intended to demonstrate to his voters a firm stance on migration, as well as his willingness to take decisive action. However, he argued that Dombrava had exceeded his authority, as such matters should be coordinated with the Ministry of Foreign Affairs—a point also made by Prime Minister Andris Kulbergs (New Unity).
“This should be seen as a pre-election attempt to demonstrate that the National Alliance is finally the political force seriously addressing migration issues,” Rozenvalds said.
Referring to information about the letter published in the media, the political scientist noted that while Dombrava expressed solidarity with Spain, he also attempted to advise the Spanish government against legalising migrants. In Rozenvalds’ view, this likely caused dissatisfaction in Madrid, particularly given that Spanish troops are stationed in Latvia as part of NATO’s deterrence efforts.
“When Spain is helping to defend Latvia, it is hardly appropriate for Latvia to lecture Spain
on how it should deal with its own affairs,” he said.
Asked about the political rationale behind the move, Rozenvalds said he understood Dombrava’s concerns regarding migration, noting that Latvia has only recently begun developing a clearer migration policy. However, he argued that both the National Alliance and the Interior Minister often fail to distinguish between legal and illegal migration.
He stressed that illegal migration should be curtailed as much as possible and that the state must do everything within the law to reduce irregular migration flows. At the same time, he argued that another important issue—likely to feature prominently in the election campaign—is the extent to which Latvia needs legal migration and under what conditions.
In his view, some recent proposals have gone too far. As an example, he cited stricter requirements for international students that exceed those applied in many other countries, effectively making it much more difficult for foreign students to study in Latvia.
Rozenvalds acknowledged that the system should be properly regulated.
If someone enters Latvia on a student visa but does not actually study, appropriate action should be taken. However, he added that it is equally important to recognise that many students work alongside their studies, as this is a normal part of student life.
According to the political scientist, a balanced approach is needed, but Dombrava has crossed that line on several occasions.
Discussing the National Alliance’s broader political strategy, Rozenvalds said that the “provocative moves and somewhat theatrical actions” of Dombrava, Culture Minister Nauris Puntulis, Riga Vice Mayor Edvards Ratnieks, and Riga City Council member Liāna Langa have not translated into any significant gains in public support.
According to a July survey conducted by the research centre SKDS, the National Alliance’s support remains unchanged at 5.5%.
Rozenvalds suggested that
the party may be hoping to attract undecided voters, who account for 23.4% of respondents.
However, he argued that the National Alliance has, to some extent, crossed “not only the boundaries of common sense,” but has also contributed to xenophobia and, in certain cases, racism.
“When discussing migrants—whether legal or illegal—the state must respond appropriately and strictly in accordance with the law. However, promoting xenophobia and racism is dangerous for society because it fuels social tensions,” the political scientist said.
As previously reported, Latvian Television’s news programme Panorāma stated that Dombrava’s letter to Spain regarding the migration crisis in Ceuta had been received negatively in Madrid, with Spanish officials reportedly describing its tone as patronising. Prime Minister Kulbergs subsequently reminded the Interior Minister that future communications of this nature with foreign governments should be coordinated in advance with the Ministry of Foreign Affairs.
Meanwhile, both the Stability! party and Latvia First (LPV) have announced plans to submit a motion of no confidence against Dombrava. The motion is also expected to receive support from The Progressives.
Read also: Latvian Prime Minister criticises Interior Minister over uncoordinated letter to Spain
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