Gunda Reire

Until now Latvia’s foreign policy has been concentrated on the process of joining international organizations – the European Union (EU) and NATO. This was a wise move; nevertheless the next move is uncertain. Now it is crucial for Latvia to define its place in the global environment, to develop proactive and goal-oriented international policy, and to create a close link between Latvia’s foreign policy and its national interests.

Latvia lacks its own global foreign policy strategy and clear priorities; they should be shaped by taking into account our national interests and analyzing the examples of Sweden, Denmark, Austria, Finland and other small Western countries. The experience of these countries can help us increase the effectiveness of our performance in international organizations – how to set specific goals and how to achieve them. The experience of small countries shows that global politics requires the setting of priorities, focusing on them and being ready to pay for them.

In spite of different imperfections in developing its global foreign policy, Latvia still has a great opportunity to find its unique place in the global environment and to play an active role. The year 2015 will be notable because of two important events. Firstly, it is the target date for achieving Millennium Development Goals. Secondly, it is the year of Latvia’s EU presidency. Latvia must formulate ideas and priorities, develop its strategy and tactics, and defend them more enthusiastically in the UN institutions.

Despite the specialization we choose, the most important point is Latvia’s expertise and its suitability for different levels of international cooperation. Human security is one such area of possible specialization. Nevertheless, much work still has to be done to develop this area as one of Latvia’s priorities of the EU presidency. The term human security has to be operationalized, and serious research on its practical application has to be carried out. This process demands close cooperation among state institutions, non-governmental organizations and researchers.

Domestic political debates and political support are crucial for Latvia’s global foreign policy strategy. It is worth to steer the political support wider – both towards Latvia’s activities in the UN, and other international organizations. Political courage, strong players, a stabile domestic policy and creative thinking are essential for Latvia’s foreign policy growth.