The state is leaving the region, only military equipment is noticeable - entrepreneur 0 10

Mackevich noted that he is an entrepreneur from Latgale, but he has to work and earn in Riga, as it is extremely difficult to compete locally.

One of the key problems he mentioned is the economic inequality of regions. Despite the distance from the capital, fuel and food in border areas often cost more than in Riga. In his words, the entire economic base is concentrated in the capital — "just like in France everything is in Paris," here all resources and opportunities flow into Riga.

Particular attention in the conversation was given to the loss of local autonomy and the sense of community. Previously, many issues could be resolved locally — including in the Latgalian language. Now, however, the centralization of services leads to people having to communicate only in the state language through remote call centers located in other cities. This intensifies the feeling of alienation.

Mackevich provided a domestic example: to replace his driver's license, his father had to travel 140 kilometers — 70 to Daugavpils and 70 back. This takes an entire day. A similar situation exists with banking services and obtaining loans — instead of digital solutions, residents have to personally travel to the regional center. According to him, residents see how government structures are gradually leaving the region. The only noticeable signs of presence are military vehicles. At the same time, the everyday environment is becoming more complicated: proximity to the border, social tension, and a sense of insecurity.

As an example of possible solutions, the entrepreneur mentioned countries facing regional depopulation — such as Croatia and Spain. There, according to him, tax breaks and incentives for local residents are applied, including cheaper fuel or special tax regimes. This is not about direct subsidies, but about creating conditions under which it is beneficial for a person to stay and develop a business locally.