Panel Discussion "Science Policy – ​​A Springboard or a Stumbling Block for Latvia's Growth?"

Celebrating its 20th anniversary, the Latvian Association of Young Scientists invites you to a special discussion series on October 28 at the AsiaRes Reading Room of the National Library of Latvia (NLL) from 5:30 p.m. to 7:00 p.m. The series will address issues related to the interaction between science and society. The series is being held in collaboration with the NLL, and each event is dedicated to an issue crucial for the development of science in Latvia.

Panelists:

• Kristaps Jaudzems, Dean of the Faculty of Medicine and Life Sciences, University of Latvia, Professor
• Antoņina ņenaševa, Member of the 14th Saeima
• Kaspars Gorkšs, Director General of the Latvian Employers' Confederation
• Anna Leiškalne, Deputy Director of the Department of Higher Education, Science and Innovation of the Ministry of Education and Science, in the field of science

The discussion will be moderated by Ingus Pērkons, Member of the board of the LJZA and researcher at the scientific institute "BIOR".

Science is one of the strongest driving forces of society and economy, but in Latvia, its potential is still not fully utilised. In the panel discussion, we will look for answers to the question: how to make science a central, not a marginal, priority of national development? We will talk about both achievements and challenges that still lie ahead.

The conversation will focus on creating a sustainable human capital policy in science, where supporting doctoral and postdoctoral students becomes a permanent investment in the future, rather than a temporary initiative. The discussion participants will also seek solutions to establish a regular dialogue between scientists and decision-makers, ensuring that an evidence-based approach becomes an integral part of policy, including science policy. At the same time, we will also discuss how to promote dialogue and change the perceptions of society and politicians about science as merely an immediate source of innovation, emphasising its importance in strengthening security, health, and well-being.

Event visitors are invited to register for the event by 27.10. 2025. at 17.00, using the registration form: 

The Society Integration Fund financially supports the event from the Latvian state budget.