News

Until recently, patients in Latvia living with spinal muscular atrophy and other severe neuromuscular disorders who rely on cough assist devices to support vital respiratory functions had no access to state-funded equipment due to gaps in the regulatory framework and a lack of action by responsible institutions. Following the Ombudsperson’s active intervention, state-funded cough assist devices for home use will be available to eligible patients from 1 October 2026.

On Thursday, 17 September, the “Good Governance in Municipalities” awards were presented for the first time, recognizing municipalities that promote transparency, public participation, high-quality services, and governance aligned with the public interest through concrete initiatives. The aim of the competition is not only to highlight examples of good practice, but also to provide municipalities with an opportunity to draw inspiration from these examples and adopt similar solutions in their own work.

In preparation for the 15th Saeima elections, the Ombudsman’s Office will monitor the voting process throughout Latvia, paying particular attention to senior citizens’ ability to fully exercise their right to vote in social care centres, also known as nursing homes. Improving the quality of life of senior citizens is one of Ombudsperson Karina Palkova’s priorities; therefore, this year’s monitoring activities are specifically focused on ensuring that every senior citizen who wishes to vote is provided with the opportunity to do so.

Timely, good-quality and affordable healthcare for children is a legal obligation of the state of Latvia, a human rights issue, and an integral part of demographic policy. The right to health protection is enshrined both in the Constitution of Latvia (Satversme) and in several international human rights documents. It is particularly important that children are granted priority protection in the area of health care.

Summary of events and news from the Office of the Ombudsman of the Republic of Latvia covering May and June 2026.