7/7 3. The level of discussion across Latvian media is unusually high: it makes me wonder if we will see its reflection in the 2026 elections, either through a higher turnout (59% in 2022) or a shift in support towards parties that are pro or against.

6/7 2. The withdrawal is pushed by Latvian populist politicians, who insist that on the one hand, it will not threaten Latvia’s connection to the EU but reduce foreign influence, while rejecting any comparison with Russia; overall, this goes against “traditional” populists views in Europe.

5/7 Personally, I see three important things about it: 1. In Latvia, major political debates mostly appear in response to Latvian/Russian language politics. This time, the divide cross-cuts through both groups: there is no clear dominance of one opinion within either group.

4/7 Supporters of ratification stress the Convention’s importance for real protection against domestic and gender based violence and keeping Latvia aligned with European legal standards.

3/7 Supporters of withdrawal say that the Convention increases foreign influence over Latvia’s legal system and undermines its sovereignty. They also argue that the Convention‘s view of gender as socially constructed roles goes against Latvia’s traditional values.

2/7 Regardless the protests, Parliament supported the withdrawal in the first reading (56/100). Today, President Rinkēvičs @edgarsrinkevics.bsky.social used his right to send the decision back for a second vote. The next protest is planned for November 6.