Latvia debates limits on remote work in public administration

Latvia’s prime minister’s plan to limit remote work in public administration has drawn support from an expert and cautious criticism from trade unions, LSM reported. The Public Law Institute’s director, Arvīds Dravnieks, supports a greater emphasis on in-person work, while the Latvian Free Trade Union Confederation is calling for a compromise that preserves hybrid working.

Dravnieks told Latvijas Radio that the move to remote work was understandable during crisis conditions, but argued that it was no longer the most effective model for public administration.

He compared public administration with an army, saying that working remotely could resemble a partisan system in which everyone operates separately. In his view, that approach is less effective.

Dravnieks said exceptions could be made for people caring for relatives with disabilities or dealing with their own health problems. He also argued that ministers need to be able to reach officials when urgent issues arise and information is needed without advance notice.

Prime Minister Andris Kulbergs of the United List has also said that exceptions could remain for certain information technology professions and other specialised functions. Overall, however, he believes employees of state institutions should be available at their workplaces.

The Latvian Free Trade Union Confederation takes a more cautious view and says a hybrid arrangement should be considered. One possible model would allow employees to work remotely for two days a week and in person on the remaining days, provided their duties can be performed remotely.

Confederation leader Egils Baldzēns said the unions recognised the prime minister’s concern when employees could not regularly be met in person and visitors, including taxpayers, encountered problems.