Latvian military personnel support and funding

Latvia is implementing measures to support and retain military personnel through educational and financial reforms.

In September 2026, the Ministry of Education and Science requested approximately one million euros in additional funding to support state-funded studies for graduates of the National Defence Service. This request follows a significant increase in graduates enrolling in higher education, with approximately 500 graduates currently studying under state funding. The Ministry noted challenges regarding applicant diversity and the distribution of students across technical versus social science fields.

By October 2026, the Latvian Cabinet of Ministers approved regulations to increase base salaries for soldiers. The plan includes a provisional average increase of 190 euros before taxes starting in 2027, followed by an additional average increase of 147 euros in 2028. The Ministry of Defence stated these changes are intended to “strengthen the motivation of National Armed Forces personnel, improve competitiveness in the labor market, and retain experienced specialists.” These salary increases will be funded by reallocating internal defense sector resources.