We see an increase in the number of Ukrainians entering Latvian job market on a weekly basis - minister of welfare

RIGA - Every week, the growth of Ukrainians in the Latvian labor market is visible, opening the international conference dedicated to the topic of employment Future of Jobs 2022, said Minister of Welfare Gatis Eglitis (Conservatives).

He said that this is why it can be said that the Russian attack on Ukraine has also significantly affected the Latvian labor market.

Eglitis emphasized that Latvia has done its utmost to liberalize the labor market for Ukrainian civilians, including by abolishing the requirements for proficiency in the state language and various health checks, which could hinder their ability to earn a living.

"We want people to find work in the simplest way possible, and I think we are achieving this. Every week we see more and more Ukrainians entering our labor market, which is very, very positive, in my opinion," he said.

He also emphasized the great potential for retraining people in new sectors that are needed in the labor market, such as working with technology. Eglitis also pointed out to the situation in Latvia with its large diaspora abroad, who have acquired extensive skills and experience, therefore, returning home, these people could make a great contribution.

Meanwhile, in his speech at the conference, Prime Minister Krisjanis Karins (New Unity) emphasized the importance of education in the labor market, as well as the fact that due to the declining number of children in families, people will need more skills, as it will be necessary to make processes more productive in the future - with less people power.