LVARes: The Evolution of Latvia’s Defence and Security Policy in Resilience Building

Project Description

The current period of heightened geopolitical uncertainty has been defined by shifting power dynamics, ongoing conflicts, and hybrid threats aimed at undermining the resilience of democratic states. Russia’s continued aggression against Ukraine has significantly transformed Europe’s approach to security, exposing vulnerabilities within NATO and emphasizing the vital role of resilience in protecting democratic societies.

This project, led by the Center for East European Policy Studies in collaboration with The Atlantic Council, seeks to advance the discussion on strengthening public understanding of Latvia’s security and defense policy, with a particular focus on resilience-building practices. Since the introduction of the Comprehensive Defence Concept in 2018, Latvia’s defense and security policy has prioritized the readiness and capabilities of both society and state institutions to address threats and contingencies, whether external or domestic. This strategic approach has resulted in the development of concrete policies and practices that offer rare and valuable insights.

Through this project, Latvia’s pioneering efforts in implementing a comprehensive national defense concept will be highlighted, along with its role as a key NATO member state. The overarching goal of the project is to contribute to policy discussions on the future of resilience practices across the broader Euro-Atlantic region.

The project encompasses three main goals:

1. Comprehensive study of Latvia’s defence and resilience capabilities: Assess the current state of Latvia’s defense and security capabilities and resilience policies, identifying strengths and areas for improvement.
2. Raise awareness: Foster public understanding of Latvia’s developments in the area of defence and resilience, leading best policy practices and contributions to NATO framework, including their importance for national and regional security.
3. Promote collaboration and best practice sharing: Share Latvia’s expertise in security and resilience policy with domestic audiences, as well as US and NATO stakeholders, strengthening transatlantic cooperation.

The project main activity will be an analytical article series, produced by established experts from Latvia and United Sates. The article series will consist of five analytical articles covering essential topics such as crisis management, military capability development and regional security, civil defense readiness, information space and media resilience, as well as an all-encompassing look at Latvia’s comprehensive state defense concept and strategy.

Article I: The media space and fight against information manipulation activities

Article II: Securing essential services and civil preparedness

Article III: The development of military capabilities and readiness for war

The project will conclude with the Latvia–USA Resilience Conference, a high-profile event in Washington, D.C. This forum will provide a platform to present the findings of the analytical series, engage policymakers, experts, and opinion leaders, and foster dialogue on resilience policies and transatlantic security.

The project will deliver actionable recommendations, facilitate transatlantic dialogue, and enhance public awareness of resilience’s critical role in regional and global security, through the perspective of Latvia’s unique experience and contributions.