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Since 24 February 2022, Latvia has received a high number of refugees from Ukraine. From the outset of the war in Ukraine, the Latvian Government and civil society have responded with steadfast solidarity towards refugees from Ukraine, including by facilitating access to rights and services on equal footing with Latvian citizens. Challenges facing refugees from Ukraine include access to long-term accommodation, health services and psychosocial assistance, as well as Latvian language barriers in employment and education.
Since 2023, Latvia is included in the Ukraine Regional Refugee Response Plan (RRP), complementing the government-led response. In 2024 a new RRP is being coordinated by UNHCR, developed by 17 humanitarian organizations in Latvia.
Following the increase in the number of refugees and migrants arriving via Belarus in Lithuania, Latvia and Poland in 2021, Latvia introduced a state of emergency, limiting access to asylum for those trying to reach Latvia irregularly through Belarus. In June 2023, Latvia adopted new legislation, formalizing this approach which UNHCR is concerned will effectively authorize pushbacks