Latvia’s Security Council Cites Election Flaws

Officials Acknowledge Issues in Municipal Vote, Secure 2026 Focus

Latvia’s National Security Council has revealed significant shortcomings in the planning and execution of recent municipal elections, despite confirming no evidence of external interference. The assessment signals a push for improvements before the crucial 2026 Saeima elections.

Planning and Technology Under Scrutiny

The Council’s meeting, convened by President **Edgars Rinkēvičs**, included discussions with key electoral figures. Attendees were **Kristīne Saulīte**, head of the Central Election Commission (CVK); **Inga Bērziņa**, Minister for Smart Administration and Regional Development (New Unity); a representative from the State Digital Development Agency; the chair of the Riga Election Commission; and the chair of the board of the Latvian State Radio and Television Centre.

According to advisor **Mārtiņš Drēģeris**, the Council determined that mistakes were made in several areas, including planning, organization, technological support, and accurately predicting the capacity of IT systems. Insufficient cooperation between involved institutions and a lack of timely dialogue regarding identified problems were also noted.

“Significant mistakes had been made by the responsible officials and institutions in the municipal election process, including in planning, work organisation, technological support, in forecasting the capacity of information technology systems, as well as in mutual cooperation between the institutions involved and in open dialogue on the timely elimination of identified shortcomings.”

—National Security Council statement

Despite the identified issues, national security authorities found no indication of outside meddling in the election process. The Council expressed confidence in the overall security of the vote. A recent report by the Council of Europe found that approximately 37% of citizens across Europe have concerns about the integrity of electoral processes, highlighting the importance of addressing vulnerabilities. Council of Europe Report

Looking Ahead to 2026

The National Security Council has called for a thorough evaluation of the errors made and a plan to address weaknesses and potential risks to the electoral system before the 2026 Saeima elections. The Council, chaired by the President, comprises the President, the Speaker of the Saeima, the Chairs of relevant Saeima committees, the Prime Minister, key ministers (**Defence**, **Foreign Affairs**, **Interior**), and the Prosecutor General.

The focus now shifts to implementing corrective measures to ensure a smoother and more secure electoral process in the future, reinforcing public trust in Latvia’s democratic institutions.