Latvia Facts

by countryaah · Published June 3, 2019 · Updated December 12, 2024

Latvia, Baltic state; 64,589 km², 1.9 million residents (2019).Latvia borders in the north to Estonia, in the east to the Russian Federation, in the south to Belarus and Lithuania and in the west to the Baltic Sea. The capital is Riga (641,400 residents, 2017).

Country facts

Latvija’s Republic / Latvia
Country abbreviation: LV
Area: 64 590 km²
Population (2019): 1.9 million residents
Capital: Riga
Main languages: Latvian, Russian
State: Republic
Head of State: Egils Levits (President)
Head of Government: Krisjanis Karins
Per capita GDP (2018): US $ 18,089
GNI per capita (2018): US $ 16,740
Currency unit: euro
Currency code: EUR
Country number (telephony): 371
Internet domain name: lv
Time difference compared to Sweden: +1
National Day: November 18 (Proclamation of the Republic, 1918)

Nature

Land use: forest (54%), agricultural land (30%), other (16%)
Highest mountain: Gaizin̦a (311 m asl)
Longest river: Daugava (1,020 km)

Population

Population density (2019): 29 residents per km²
Natural population growth (2019): −0.5%; birth rate 10 ‰, death rate 15 ‰
Age structure (2019): 0-14 years (16%), 15-64 (64%), 65- (20%)
Life expectancy (2019): men 70 years, women 80 years
Infant mortality (2019): 3 per 1,000 live births
Population forecast 2050: 2 million residents
HDI (2017): 0.847 (place 41 of 189)
Urbanization rate (2017): 69%
Most popular cities (2017): Riga (641,400 residents), Daugavpils (84,600), Liepāja (69,400)

Business

Industry’s contribution to GDP (2017): agriculture (4%), industry (22%), service (74%)
Exports (2017): US $ 12,840 million
Main export products: food, wood products, machinery
Main exporting countries: Lithuania, Russian Federation, Estonia
Imports (2017): US $ 15,790 million
Main import products: machinery, consumer goods, metal
Main importing countries: Lithuania, Germany, Poland
Railway network (2018): 1,860 km

Geography

Location and Borders

Latvia is a country located in the Baltic region of Northern Europe. It is one of the three Baltic States, alongside Estonia and Lithuania. Latvia is bordered to the north by Estonia, to the east by Russia, to the south by Lithuania, and to the west by the Baltic Sea. With an area of 64,589 square kilometers (24,938 square miles), Latvia is a small but strategically located country that has historically served as a gateway between Eastern and Western Europe.

The country’s coastline along the Baltic Sea stretches for about 500 kilometers (311 miles), making it an important maritime nation in the region. Latvia’s geographic position has historically made it a focal point for trade, military conflicts, and cultural exchange between East and West. Its location also provides it with access to major shipping routes in the Baltic, fostering trade and economic interaction with neighboring countries and beyond.

Physical Features

Latvia’s landscape is characterized by flat terrain, with over half of the country covered by forests. The country has a relatively low elevation, with its highest point, Gaiziņkalns, standing at only 311 meters (1,020 feet) above sea level. The terrain consists mostly of plains, rivers, and lakes, and there are large swathes of wetlands and marshes, especially in the east. The Daugava River, the longest river in Latvia, flows from Russia through the country and into the Baltic Sea, playing a central role in Latvia’s geography and its historical development as a trade route.

The country is dotted with thousands of lakes, including the large and picturesque Lake Lubāns in the east. Latvia is also known for its extensive forests, which cover about 50% of the country. These forests are home to a diverse range of flora and fauna, and they have historically been vital to Latvia’s economy and culture. In addition to forests and lakes, Latvia is known for its coastal sand dunes and picturesque beaches along the Baltic Sea, particularly in regions like Jurmala, which are popular for tourism.

Latvia’s natural environment is largely preserved and protected, with many national parks and nature reserves scattered throughout the country. The landscape is a reflection of the country’s overall ecological diversity, ranging from dense forests and wetlands to sandy coastlines and rolling hills.

Climate

Latvia experiences a temperate maritime climate, characterized by distinct seasons. The climate is influenced by the Baltic Sea to the west, which moderates temperatures in the winter and summer. Winters in Latvia can be quite cold, with temperatures often dropping below freezing, especially in inland areas. January is the coldest month, with average temperatures ranging from -5°C to -10°C (23°F to 14°F), though it can drop even lower during extreme cold spells. Snow is common from December through February, contributing to the country’s winter tourism, particularly in ski resorts located in the east and south.

Summers are mild to warm, with temperatures ranging from 15°C to 25°C (59°F to 77°F). The weather in the summer months is often unpredictable, with occasional rainfall and cloudy days. June and July are the warmest months, and daylight hours are long due to Latvia’s northern latitude, with the sun setting late into the evening.

The spring and autumn months are transitional, with mild to cool temperatures and moderate rainfall. Latvia’s climate is heavily influenced by its proximity to the Baltic Sea, which helps moderate extreme temperature fluctuations but also contributes to higher humidity and frequent rainfall throughout the year.

Natural Resources

Latvia has a range of natural resources that play a significant role in its economy. The country is rich in forests, which supply timber and wood products that are important for both domestic use and export. Latvia is one of the largest producers of timber in Europe, and its forest products are a key part of the country’s manufacturing sector.

In addition to timber, Latvia has abundant mineral resources, particularly peat, which is used as a fuel source in the country’s energy production. The country also has some deposits of limestone, clay, and dolomite, which are used in the construction and cement industries. Latvia’s agricultural sector is based on fertile soils, particularly in the river valleys, and it produces a variety of crops such as cereals, potatoes, vegetables, and fruits, though it is more reliant on imported food to meet its needs.

Latvia’s most significant natural resource is its extensive freshwater resources, including lakes and rivers, which provide water for consumption, agriculture, and industry. Latvia has invested heavily in hydropower, utilizing its rivers to generate electricity, making the country one of the leaders in renewable energy production in the Baltic region.

People

Population and Ethnic Composition

Latvia has a population of approximately 1.9 million people. The majority of the population is ethnic Latvian, making up about 62% of the total population. The Latvian people are of Baltic origin, with a distinct culture, language, and history that set them apart from their neighboring countries. Latvia’s ethnic composition reflects its historical role as a crossroads of different empires and peoples, with significant influences from Russia, Germany, Poland, and Sweden.

The second largest ethnic group in Latvia is the Russian community, which makes up about 25% of the population. The Russian community primarily resides in urban areas such as the capital, Riga, and other major cities. There are also smaller minority groups, including Belarusians, Ukrainians, Poles, Lithuanians, and Jews. The presence of these ethnic groups is a legacy of Latvia’s long history under foreign rule, particularly during the Russian Empire and the Soviet Union.

The country’s population has been in decline since the early 1990s, primarily due to emigration and low birth rates. Many Latvians, particularly younger generations, have moved abroad for better job opportunities, particularly to countries such as the United Kingdom, Ireland, and Germany. This trend has led to concerns about the country’s aging population and its potential economic impact.

Language

The official language of Latvia is Latvian, which belongs to the Baltic language group and is one of the few living languages in the world that is part of this group. Latvian is a highly inflected language, with a rich system of case endings that differentiate the meanings of words based on their roles in sentences. The language is written in the Latin alphabet and has undergone several reforms throughout its history, particularly during periods of independence and foreign domination.

Latvian is the primary language used in government, education, and media. It plays a central role in national identity, and there has been significant emphasis on promoting the language, especially after Latvia regained independence in 1991. Russian, however, remains widely spoken, particularly in urban areas and among the older generations, due to the historical influence of the Soviet Union. Russian is often used in business, everyday communication, and as a second language for many Latvians.

Other languages spoken by minority groups in Latvia include English, which is increasingly spoken by younger generations, as well as German, Polish, and Belarusian. English proficiency is high among the educated population, particularly in urban areas, and is commonly used in business and higher education.

Religion

The predominant religion in Latvia is Christianity, with the majority of the population adhering to the Lutheran denomination of Protestantism. Lutheranism was introduced to Latvia in the 16th century during the Reformation, and it has since become a significant part of Latvian cultural and social life. The Lutheran Church in Latvia plays an important role in the country’s religious and cultural identity, and many Latvian festivals and holidays are tied to Christian traditions.

Roman Catholicism is the second-largest religion in Latvia, particularly among the ethnic Latvian minority in the Latgale region in the southeast. Catholicism was brought to Latvia by the Polish and Lithuanian rulers in the Middle Ages and remains a key part of the cultural life in the region. There is also a small Russian Orthodox Christian community, which is part of the larger Russian minority in Latvia.

Latvia has a long history of religious tolerance, and the country’s constitution guarantees freedom of religion. In recent decades, Latvia has become increasingly secular, with many people identifying as non-religious or spiritually indifferent. Nevertheless, religious traditions still play an important role in Latvian culture, with holidays like Christmas, Easter, and Midsummer (Jāņi) celebrated by many.

Social Structure

Latvia’s social structure is influenced by its history, with a mix of traditional agricultural values and modern urban lifestyles. In rural areas, the family unit remains central to social life, and extended families often live in close proximity or maintain strong familial ties. In urban areas, particularly in Riga, the capital, social structures are more fluid, with younger generations embracing more individualistic lifestyles.

Education is highly valued in Latvian society, and the country has one of the highest literacy rates in the world. Latvia’s educational system is divided into primary, secondary, and tertiary levels, with a strong emphasis on science, technology, and the arts. The country has a robust system of public universities, including the University of Latvia and Riga Technical University, which attract students from across the region and abroad.

Latvia has made significant strides in gender equality, with women participating actively in education, the workforce, and politics. However, there are still challenges related to the gender pay gap and the underrepresentation of women in leadership roles.

Economy

Key Industries

Latvia has a diverse economy that is open and export-driven. Key industries include manufacturing, agriculture, services, and transportation. The country is known for its strong industrial base, particularly in the areas of electronics, machinery, food processing, and chemicals. The manufacturing sector is one of the largest contributors to Latvia’s GDP, and the country is a major exporter of processed foods, machinery, and equipment.

The services sector is another important part of the Latvian economy, with a growing financial services industry centered in Riga. Latvia has a well-developed banking system and is a hub for financial services in the Baltic region. The country also benefits from a thriving tourism industry, with Riga being a popular destination for visitors from around the world. The tourism sector contributes significantly to the country’s economy, with attractions ranging from historical sites to natural beauty.

Agriculture is an important part of Latvia’s economy, though it has been declining in relative importance over time. The country produces a variety of crops, including grains, potatoes, and vegetables, with the largest agricultural output being from the grain and dairy sectors. Latvia is also a major exporter of timber, and the country’s forestry industry provides both raw materials and processed wood products for export.

Agriculture and Livestock

Latvia has a strong agricultural sector, and agriculture has historically been a key component of the country’s economy. The country is a major producer of grain, particularly barley, wheat, and oats, as well as vegetables, potatoes, and fruits. Livestock farming is also an important sector, with dairy farming being particularly prominent. Latvia’s dairy products, including milk, cheese, and butter, are widely consumed both domestically and internationally.

Despite its strong agricultural foundation, Latvia has increasingly focused on diversifying its economy away from agriculture toward more industrial and service-based activities. However, rural areas still rely heavily on farming, and many people continue to live in small farming communities, where agriculture is the primary source of income.

Economic Challenges

While Latvia has experienced steady economic growth in recent years, it faces several challenges. The country remains heavily dependent on exports, particularly to the European Union and Russia. Global economic fluctuations, trade disruptions, and geopolitical risks can affect Latvia’s economy, especially in the context of the volatile global market for key exports such as timber, machinery, and food products.

Another challenge for Latvia’s economy is the demographic trend of population decline. Latvia’s population has been steadily decreasing due to low birth rates, emigration, and an aging population. This demographic shift places pressure on the labor force, pensions, and social services. Latvia has one of the highest emigration rates in the European Union, with many young people leaving the country for better job opportunities abroad, particularly in Western Europe.

Government

Political System

Latvia is a parliamentary republic with a multi-party system. The head of state is the president, who is elected by the parliament for a four-year term. The president has a primarily ceremonial role, with real executive power resting in the hands of the prime minister and the cabinet. The parliament, known as the Saeima, is a unicameral body consisting of 100 members who are elected for a four-year term. The Saeima is responsible for passing laws, approving the budget, and overseeing the work of the executive.

Latvia has a high level of political participation and a vibrant democratic system, with free and fair elections held regularly. The political system is characterized by a range of political parties, from liberal to conservative, with coalition governments being common. The political landscape has been shaped by Latvia’s historical experiences, particularly its periods of independence and occupation during the 20th century.

Legal System

Latvia’s legal system is based on civil law, with strong influences from German and Scandinavian legal traditions. The judiciary is independent, and the legal system is designed to provide fair and equitable justice. Latvia’s Constitution, the Satversme, was adopted in 1922 and remains the fundamental law of the land, guaranteeing basic rights and freedoms for its citizens.

The legal system includes both civil and criminal courts, and the highest court in Latvia is the Constitutional Court, which is responsible for interpreting the Constitution and ensuring that laws and government actions comply with constitutional principles.

Foreign Policy

Latvia’s foreign policy is characterized by its commitment to European integration, regional cooperation, and security. Latvia became a member of the European Union (EU) in 2004, and it joined NATO in the same year. The country is also a member of the United Nations, the World Trade Organization (WTO), and other international organizations. Latvia’s foreign policy is focused on strengthening its ties with its European neighbors, particularly through the EU, and it also plays an active role in NATO’s security and defense efforts.

Latvia maintains good relations with its Baltic neighbors, Estonia and Lithuania, and it has sought to enhance its role in the Nordic-Baltic region. The country also has strong ties to the United States and other Western nations, with a shared commitment to democracy, security, and economic cooperation. Latvia’s foreign policy also focuses on maintaining its sovereignty and security in the face of regional challenges, particularly from Russia.