Latvia has been elected to the United Nations Security Council (UNSC) for the term 2026–2027, receiving 178 votes. To become a non-permanent member of the Council, Latvia needed the support of two-thirds of UN member states.
Latvia ran as a candidate for the elected member seat of the UNSC and became the sole contender from the Eastern European group. Until January 31, Montenegro had also been in the race but later withdrew its candidacy.
This year’s elections featured Latvia from the Eastern European group, the Republic of the Congo and Liberia from the African group, Colombia from the Latin American and Caribbean group, and Bahrain from the Asia-Pacific group.
Upon election, Latvia pledged to promote cooperation among UN member states, regional organizations, and civil society to enhance resilience, foster lasting peace and security, achieve sustainable development, and ensure no one is left behind.
Latvia believes that conflict prevention, civilian protection in armed conflicts, and peaceful dispute resolution must remain core priorities of the UN, including through mediation and peacekeeping efforts.
Latvia advocates for greater accountability, coherence, and transparency within the UNSC. It supports reforms aimed at enhancing the Council’s effectiveness in addressing global challenges.
Latvia defends the international rules-based order. It supports holding violators of international law accountable and combating impunity as essential prerequisites for a just and sustainable peace.
Latvia also recognizes the urgent need for responsible action to achieve the Sustainable Development Goals. Strengthening long-term resilience is particularly critical in addressing the escalating climate crisis and rising sea levels.
Latvia will continue its work within the multilateral system to strengthen solidarity and collective efforts, supporting vulnerable communities and developing countries affected by political and social tensions, poverty, environmental pressures, and water access challenges.
A longstanding advocate of gender equality and the empowerment of women through education and participation, Latvia values the decisive role of the “Women, Peace and Security” agenda in ensuring international peace and sustainable development. The country will continue to support women’s rights and assist victims of sexual violence in armed conflicts.
Latvia also sees bridging the digital divide between countries, urban and rural areas, and across gender and age groups as key to resilience and opportunity for all. Latvia will remain actively engaged in addressing security issues in the digital and information domains, including in the field of artificial intelligence.