Latvia Pension Reform: Signature Collection Points in Ķekava
Following the registration of a new legislative initiative by the Central Election Commission (CVK) in Latvia, residents and eligible voters in the Ķekava district now have a designated physical location to cast their signatures in support of proposed amendments to the State Funded Pension Law. This initiative, spearheaded by the political party “Latvija pirmajā vietā” (Latvia First), seeks to trigger a national referendum on how state-funded pensions are managed.
The Path to a National Referendum
In Latvia, the democratic process allows citizens to propose legislative changes. However, the threshold for success is high. To move from a registered initiative to a full national referendum, the proposal must be signed by at least 10% of the total eligible voting population. Given Latvia’s current demographics, this requires a significant mobilization of the electorate both at home and abroad.
The official signature collection period for this specific initiative is scheduled to begin on May 7, 2026. While many voters—including those residing in the UK—may choose to sign electronically via the official portals “Latvija.lv” or “e.cvk.lv,” local municipalities are required to provide physical verification points for those who prefer to sign in person or require assistance.
Location Details for Ķekava Residents
For those residing in or visiting the Ķekava district administrative territory, the signature collection will be hosted at the local Orphan’s Court (bāriņtiesa) premises. The service is provided free of charge.
Address:
Gaismas iela 19/8, Ķekava, Ķekavas pagasts, Ķekavas novads, LV-2123
Authorized Personnel:
* Sarma Trumpekoja: Chairperson of the Ķekava District Orphan’s Court
* Agnese Svilpe: Member of the Ķekava District Orphan’s Court
Opening Hours
The collection point will operate on a specific part-time schedule. Residents are advised to note that the office is closed on weekends and during public holidays.
- Mondays: 08:00 – 13:00
- Thursdays: 14:00 – 19:00
- Saturdays & Sundays: Closed
Note: On the eve of public holidays, working hours are shortened by two hours.
Context on the Pension Law Amendments
The proposed “Grozījumi Valsts fondēto pensiju likumā” (Amendments to the State Funded Pension Law) comes at a time of heightened debate regarding retirement age and the sustainability of social security systems across Europe. For the Latvian diaspora in the UK, these changes are particularly relevant as they may affect future pension payouts for those who have contributed to the Latvian state-funded tiers before or during their time abroad.
Original reporting by: ikdiena.lv
Source: Ķekavas novada pašvaldība
