The Transparency of Representation Act

LATVIA – Saeima Press Service (18/10/2022)

According to Saeima Press Service on 13 October, the Saeima adopted the Transparency of Representation of Interests Act in its third reading.

The purpose of the new Act is to ensure transparency of the representation process, thereby increasing public confidence in public authorities and representatives of interests involved in proposing, developing, making or implementing public decisions, as well as to ensure fair and equal opportunities for all interested persons to participate in representation.

The Law defines the concepts of interests representation and representative, establishes the obligation of representatives of interests to enter information into a special register, and provides for a declaration system for representation of interests activities. In addition, the Law sets out the duties of interest representatives and public authorities, as well as restrictions on activities in the process of interest representation.

From 2024, the Cabinet of Ministers will have to submit an annual report to the Saeima on progress in achieving the goals defined in the Act, as well as plans for future activities.

The Representation of Interests Transparency Act will enter into force on 1 January 2023. The Representation of Interests Register and declaration system will be in operation from 1 September 2025.

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