On 24 September in Riga, the Ministry of Welfare will host a panel discussion on the minimum income reform and the role of social assistance as its cornerstone.
In 2023, Latvia introduced a minimum income reform by establishing sound and justified minimum income thresholds based on a clear calculation methodology. The minimum income now complies with the socio-economic situation in the country and is balanced with the interests of the rest of society, while maintaining a motivated environment for entering the labour market. The minimum income thresholds, including the guaranteed minimum income benefit, are adjusted annually according to changes in the total income of our population.
Is social assistance a ‘comfortable life on benefits’ or support that enables a person to regain their footing and move forward?
The discussion will focus on assessing the reform and the role of social assistance as its cornerstone, addressing myths about social assistance recipients and highlighting the impact of minimum income on poverty reduction.
Panel participants:
Reinis Uzulnieks, Minister of Welfare
Sarah Schinazi, Head of the Minimum Income Policy Team, European Commission
Viktorija Baire, Chair of Ķekava Municipality Council
Gunārs Upenieks, Chair of Krāslava Municipality Council
Mairita Lūse, Riga City Council Member
Pēteris Leiškalns, Social Security and Health Protection Expert, Latvian Employers’ Confederation
The reform is part of Latvia’s Recovery and Resilience Plan, aiming to create a more socially just environment through joint efforts of Latvia and the European Union. The outcomes of the discussion will also feed into Latvia’s position on the forthcoming EU Anti-Poverty Strategy.
he discussion will be livestreamed on the Ministry of Welfare’s Facebook page and YouTube channel.
To participate and have the opportunity to ask questions, prior registration is required: https://fienta.com/lv/diskusija-pedejais-socialais-drosibas-tikls
