The S&D Group has been closely monitoring the process of forming a new government in Latvia following the parliamentary elections of October 4, won by the Social-Democratic Party Harmony (SDPC).
Gianni Pittella, president of the Socialists and Democrats Group in the European Parliament, said:
In accordance with the spirit of democracy, the S&D Group calls on the president of the republic, Andris Bērziņš, to fully respect the will of the voters, and stresses that the SDPC – as the party that won the most votes – should be included in a 'rainbow government'. Radical austerity policies have imposed a huge social cost on the Latvian population, particularly on the most vulnerable citizens.
Latvian voters have sent a clear message that the time has come for more socially-oriented policies. The political leadership of the country should heed this call.
Since many voters from the ethnic minorities support the SDPC, its participation in a large coalition government would also demonstrate the will to take into consideration their opinions and legitimate interests. An inclusive and tolerant way of treating minorities is the best safeguard for Latvia against any of the geopolitical and security challenges stemming from the conflict in Ukraine.
