In Latvia, programs for the return of compatriots are positioned as a strategic priority; however, in reality, they remain merely an imitation of vigorous activity. The director of the SKDS center, sociologist Arnis Kaktinsh, harshly criticized the current approach of the authorities during the Preses klubs program on TV24, calling it ineffective.
According to the expert, attempts to lure those who left back are pointless as long as the government does not address the reasons for the mass exodus of the population.
"I think that the return of re-emigrants, in general, is a futile story. There are specific nuances, but mostly it’s a meaningless endeavor. Another way to talk and spend money - with some minor caveats," said Kaktinsh.
Although certain tools - such as interactive maps - can be useful, the overall statistics are relentless: the outflow of the population still exceeds the influx. The sociologist emphasizes that the government is fighting symptoms while completely ignoring the "disease."
"In reality, more people are leaving than returning. The central question is - why are they leaving? If we could understand and assess the reasons why people are leaving the country, then there wouldn’t be a problem of return," noted the sociologist.
Instead of developing costly repatriation plans, Kaktinsh suggests focusing on creating conditions in which Latvians simply stop taking their documents and heading to the airport.
"If this issue is truly important, then the focus should be on why people are fleeing and what specifically needs to be done to make them stop leaving. Then the problem of return would resolve itself," he explained.
The main trigger for emigration remains the weak economy. Without real income growth and confidence in the future, any government re-emigration programs will remain, according to the head of SKDS, merely cosmetic repairs in a building with a crumbling foundation.
Leave a comment