They want to call upon the youth living in the 'England-Irelands'. Is it that simple? 0 7

“As long as the young man lives with his parents, many problems could be avoided,” suggests Uldis Balodis, the head of the social network for Latvians in the diaspora, Laiva. “But if he lives separately in the United Kingdom — renting a house or an apartment, or at least a small room — and works, then after the draft he needs to leave the country for 11 months. This means that during his service, he will lose his housing, as no one will keep it empty for him...”

The unemployment rate in the UK among youth aged 16-24 is three times higher than the average — 15.3% compared to 5%. “It is hardest for young men to find work, as migrants are now competing for traditional first jobs such as waiters or couriers. If one manages to find a permanent, well-paid job, losing it can be a tragedy for some.”

Kristine Krauze works in insurance in the Foggy Albion: “My son has been living independently for the first year, he has a job, he is studying at university, and will be an engineer. He is very concerned, and I am also worried.”

“She also says that she fears a possible Russian invasion of Latvia,” writes Latvijas Avīze about a woman who raises the question — will British credit institutions provide 'holidays' on payments for those young people who took out loans and will now be defending their distant homeland. “Moreover, there is no guarantee that those studying at British universities will retain their study place or scholarship. Many students are concerned about this, as obtaining a scholarship is not easy at all.”

“I have been living here since 2004,” continues K. Krauze, “my son was born here, he is now 20 years old. He is seriously puzzled, he asks me — mom, what is happening? And I am unable to answer him. Anything can happen in Latvia!”

“My son came to this country when he was one year old. He is fully rooted here,” reflects England resident Arturs Shamvars. In the presence of the article's author, Ilze Kalve, Mr. Shamvars asked his son: “You might be paid to go and serve in the armed forces. What would you say about that?” The young man replied, generally — yes, but “if it’s to fight against Russia, then definitely no.”

Meanwhile, Latvia promises a generous 600 euros per month for those volunteers who enlist in the 'state defense service'. After its completion, 1100 euros will also be paid. The Ministry of Defense reminds that “after service, a young person has the right to apply without competition for a state-funded course in state universities and colleges.”