Continuation of language classes for people displaced from Ukraine
The Latvian Cabinet of Ministers approved the allocation of 4 685 625 EUR to the Society Integration Foundation to fund the provision of Latvian language classes for people displaced from Ukraine.
Since February 2022, people displaced from Ukraine who are now in Latvia have been able to attend free Latvian language courses organised by the foundation. The newly approved funding will allow for the continuation of these classes, with 6 375 people expected to participate in 2025, and for the inclusion of children aged 16 and above. Previously only adults could participate.
Report on Ukrainian refugee-led NGOs in Latvia
A recent study by Providus examines the development and impact of, as well as challenges faced by, Ukrainian refugee-led NGOs in Latvia. The research shows that these organisations play a key role in promoting the integration of people displaced from Ukraine, providing essential services that include language classes, legal assistance, cultural events, and psychological support.
The report finds that – to strengthen the long-term impact of these NGOs and ensure their continued engagement in integration efforts in Latvia – it would be beneficial to ensure better access to capacity-building programmes and greater availability of stable funding, as well as more inclusive policymaking mechanisms.
Changes to tax relief for people displaced from Ukraine
People displaced from Ukraine who are temporary protection holders in Latvia are now entitled to the same non-taxable minimum for personal income tax as Latvian residents – 510 EUR per month. The reform is expected to benefit thousands of refugees who are working legally in Latvia and contributing to local economies: a larger portion of their income will be exempt from taxation, reducing their overall tax burden and allowing them to retain more of their earnings.
Until now, the non-taxable minimum for people displaced from Ukraine was set at 250 EUR, effectively subjecting them to higher tax rates than Latvian citizens earning the same income. The change not only addresses this disparity but also signals continuous support by the Latvian state for people displaced from Ukraine. It reflects a broader commitment to promoting their integration into Latvian society, including through fairer treatment in the labour market.
Report on the employment of people displaced from Ukraine in Latvia
A recent report by the Latvian Ministry of Welfare presents the employment trends of and support measures for people displaced from Ukraine in Latvia between 2022 and 2024. The study draws on data from the State Employment Agency (NVA), the State Revenue Service (VID) and other institutions.
The findings show rising employment: by the end of 2024, over 9 500 people displaced from Ukraine were employed, constituting 48% of those of working age. There was also high participation in employment support measures: more than 4 400 individuals took part in active labour market programmes between 2022 and 2024, including career consultations and language courses.
Language support for children displaced from Ukraine
The Council of Society Integration Fund (SIF) in Latvia approved a new programme to teach the Latvian language to children and young people from Ukraine. The aim of this programme is to provide free Latvian language support to children aged 5 – 18 who are registered in the Latvian school system, in order to promote the use of the Latvian language among the population of people displaced from Ukraine. The programme follows on from the establishment of free Latvian language courses for young people displaced from Ukraine aged 16 and above.
