Migration as expression of human freedom is important for economic development - Justice Ministry

RIGA - Migration as an expression of human freedom is important for economic development, Lauma Paeglkalna, Parliamentary Secretary of the Ministry of Justice, told a conference on migration in the European Union (EU) at the Riga Graduate School of Law on Friday.

Speaking at the EU Law Association (EULA) conference "Migration as an economic and social phenomenon in the light of EU law (benefits and challenges)", Paeglkalna said that migration involves the right of a person to move, work and build a life in the place of their choice.

Migration affects the economy, human capital and national competitiveness, while public perception and integration policy are critical to preserving the rule of law and democracy, said Paeglkalna.

According to the parliamentary secretary, the Justice Ministry considers it important to strengthen the use of the Latvian language, promote integration into constitutional values and ensure a balanced migration policy. This includes stricter rules for the employment of foreigners, investment in productivity and technology, and monitoring to prevent the emergence of parallel, closed communities.

Paeglkalna called for more extensive public dialogue so that migration is managed in a conscious way, based on principles of national identity.

The conference continued with a discussion between ESTA Board Member Laila Medina and Bank of Latvia Governor Martins Kazaks, who discussed the impact of migration on the Latvian economy and legal aspects.

Kazaks argued that Latvia needs immigration for economic and educational development. "We will not cut down forests and saw wood forever, we need someone to bring the skills," he said.

Kazaks said that Latvia should be open to migrants who can bring knowledge and capital, especially high-level skills that will complement existing ones.

At the conference, experts discussed the practical implementation of migration policy, the balance between security and human rights, labor market needs, attracting and retaining foreign students, and the competitiveness of Latvia's investment and business environment.