Latvia secured its first-ever non-permanent seat on the United Nations Security Council (UNSC) for the 2026–2027 term in a June 3, 2025, election, winning 178 of 188 votes. As a Baltic nation with a history of Soviet occupation, Latvia brings a unique perspective to the council, emphasizing international law, Ukraine’s sovereignty, and emerging threats like cyberattacks and disinformation. Amid ongoing global conflicts—Russia’s war in Ukraine, the Israel-Hamas conflict, and tensions in Africa and the Middle East—Latvia’s Foreign Minister Baiba Braže has pledged to pursue “just and lasting peace” under the campaign motto “Together for Peace and Resilience.” However, the council’s effectiveness is hampered by veto powers of permanent members (U.S., Russia, China, U.K., France), complicating resolutions on Ukraine and Gaza. Latvia’s term, starting January 1, 2026, positions it to navigate these challenges while advancing its foreign policy and global influence.
Latvia Prepares for Historic UN Security Council Term Amid Global Conflicts
June 11, 2025 – Latvia is gearing up for its inaugural United Nations Security Council (UNSC) term in 2026, a historic milestone for the Baltic nation. Elected on June 3, 2025, with overwhelming support (178 of 188 votes), Latvia will serve as a non-permanent member for 2026–2027, replacing outgoing members like Algeria and Slovenia. As global conflicts intensify—Russia’s war in Ukraine, the Israel-Hamas conflict, and unrest in regions like Africa—Latvia aims to champion peace, international law, and resilience. Here’s a look at its priorities, challenges, and role in a polarized world.
Latvia’s Path to the UNSC
Latvia launched its candidacy in 2011, formalizing its campaign in 2023 under the motto “Together for Peace and Resilience.” The effort, led by Foreign Minister Baiba Braže and Ambassador Sanita Pavļuta-Deslandes, involved extensive diplomacy, including events like a March 2025 Beijing embassy showcase and a November 2024 New York reception celebrating Latvia’s 106th independence anniversary. The campaign emphasized Latvia’s post-Soviet journey, commitment to democracy, and support for Ukraine, resonating with 178 UN member states. President Edgars Rinkēvičs called the election a “historic day,” reflecting Latvia’s readiness to strengthen global security.
Key Priorities for 2026–2027
Latvia has outlined four priority areas for its UNSC term, shaped by its history and geopolitical stance:
- Defending International Law: Latvia will push for adherence to the UN Charter, particularly supporting Ukraine’s territorial integrity against Russia’s aggression. Braže has emphasized limiting Russia’s income and technology access to secure peace, citing Latvia’s own Soviet past.
- Addressing Emerging Threats: The nation will focus on hybrid threats, cyberattacks, AI-related security risks, and disinformation, leveraging its NATO and EU membership to advocate for digital security.
- Promoting Gender Equality: Latvia aims to advance the “Women, Peace and Security” agenda, supporting women’s rights and preventing sexual violence in conflicts.
- Streamlining UNSC Operations: A cross-cutting goal is improving the council’s transparency, efficiency, and accountability, addressing criticisms of its outdated structure.
Braže told Fox News Digital that Latvia’s “historical experience” equips it to empathize and forge global partnerships, stating, “We know the value of freedom [and] the fragility of peace.”
Global Conflicts: Latvia’s Stance
Latvia’s term begins amid a fractured UNSC, where vetoes by Russia (on Ukraine) and the U.S. (on Gaza) have stalled progress.
- Russia-Ukraine War: As a former Soviet state, Latvia is a staunch ally of Ukraine, delivering 1,500 combat drones and committing 0.25% of its GDP annually to military aid. Braže dismissed Russia’s peace overtures as “bluffing,” advocating for tougher sanctions and accountability for war crimes. Latvia will use its UNSC platform to refute Russian disinformation and push for a “just peace.”
- Israel-Hamas Conflict: Latvia supports humanitarian aid for Gaza but has not endorsed a specific delivery method, with Braže prioritizing “whatever is more efficient.” The nation aims to alleviate suffering while navigating the U.S.’s veto power on Gaza-related resolutions.
- Other Conflicts: Latvia pledges to address crises in Africa, the Middle East, and beyond, emphasizing conflict prevention, civilian protection, and sustainable development. Its focus on climate security and digital divides aligns with global challenges like rising sea levels and inequality.
Challenges Ahead
Latvia faces significant hurdles:
- Veto Power Gridlock: The UNSC’s permanent members’ vetoes limit action on Ukraine and Gaza, frustrating smaller nations like Latvia. Reform efforts, including calls for Africa and Latin America’s permanent seats, have failed, and Latvia’s push for transparency may meet resistance.
- Geopolitical Tensions: Latvia’s vocal criticism of Russia, a permanent UNSC member, could complicate negotiations. Its NATO alignment may also strain relations with non-Western states.
- Resource Constraints: As a small nation, Latvia must balance its ambitious agenda with limited diplomatic resources, relying on alliances with the U.S., U.K., and France.
X posts reflect regional pride, with Estonia’s President Alar Karis and Belarusian opposition leader Sviatlana Tsihanouskaya congratulating Latvia, calling it a “Baltic victory for global cooperation.”
Why It Matters
Latvia’s UNSC term, starting January 1, 2026, is a chance to amplify its voice on global security, particularly for small nations. Its focus on Ukraine aligns with Baltic priorities, while its broader agenda—cybersecurity, gender equality, and UNSC reform—aims to modernize the council. Joining Bahrain, Colombia, the Democratic Republic of Congo, and Liberia, Latvia’s election highlights diverse representation, though the council’s structural flaws persist.
As Braže told reporters, “We shall work to strengthen global security [and] safeguard the international rules-based order.” Whether Latvia can navigate a divided UNSC and drive meaningful change remains a critical test.
Suggested Authoritative Sources:
- Fox News: Coverage of Latvia’s UNSC priorities and Braže’s statements.
- AP News: Details on the June 2025 election and Latvia’s role.
- Latvian Ministry of Foreign Affairs: Official campaign goals and updates.
- Baltic News Network: Insights on Latvia’s election and regional impact.
- Kyiv Independent: Context on Latvia’s support for Ukraine.
