Young first-time voters say their ballots shape Latvia’s future

Students at Riga Secondary School No. 49 who have turned 18 and will vote for the first time this year say voting gives them a role in shaping Latvia’s future, LSM reported.

They said decisions about the country’s future are not only in politicians’ hands, but also depend on voters. The students described voting as a civic duty and a way to protect democracy and influence the choice of politicians who make important decisions.

“In this way, we choose our future,” said Marks. “We elect politicians who will decide the most important issues in the country.”

The students also shared what they hope the newly elected Saeima, Latvia’s parliament, will do. Annija called for free higher education. Krišjānis said politicians should keep their promises, develop Latvia’s economy and prosperity, and provide support for both young and older people.

Katrīna said she was particularly concerned about the Istanbul Convention and equal rights for women and men. Other students highlighted education and Latvia’s security. Marks said he wants Latvians to have access to a high-quality education on a level comparable with that in other European countries.

Although the students have different priorities, they agreed that people should vote.