In an interview on the program TV3 "900 Seconds," Supreme Court Senator Sanita Osipova emphasized that in today's security conditions, societal unity becomes as important a resource as military strength.
She pointed out that mere armament is insufficient: "It is not enough to purchase iron... if there are no motivated defenders and a nation to defend."
Osipova explained that the defense of the state is based on people's attitudes and their willingness to act in a crisis situation. She highlighted several factors influencing the readiness to defend the country, including a sense of duty, trust in others, and belief in victory: "Will I stand alone against a hundred, or will others act the same way?" At the same time, she emphasized that society must be constantly prepared for such situations, including through education and civic engagement.
Speaking about societal cohesion, Osipova referred to studies that show both positive and problematic trends. On one hand, there is a high willingness for mutual cooperation; however, less than 40% of residents would be willing to cooperate with the government in a crisis situation. "Trust must be earned," she acknowledged, explaining this by the historical alienation from state authority.
Osipova emphasized that security should be viewed more broadly than just in military terms, particularly noting society's vulnerability to propaganda. "The enemy seeks weak spots — those who feel aggrieved or unnoticed," she said, adding that it is simultaneously necessary to balance the fight against disinformation with the preservation of freedom of speech, so that in "defending democracy, we do not lose democracy itself."
