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Income Differences in Regions of Latvia – Problems and Challenges
(2019) Sloka, Biruta; Jekabsone, Inga; Čipāne, Kate; Vasina, Sabine Anete
Income differences in regions of Latvia is becoming a greater problem for families as there are made decisions for emigration, for municipalities as there are significant reductions in tax (income and property) payers and for entrepreneurs as there are less customers for their products and services: those aspects are on great importance but not enough researched and discussed in academic research. Purpose of the study is to analyse income differences in the regions of Latvia. The tasks of the study: 1 to review theoretical background of income differences in context of regional development; 2 to review existing research of income differences in the regions in EU; 3 to analyse problems of income indifferences in the regions of Latvia. Research methods used in preparation of the paper: scientific publication and previous conducted research results analysis, analysis of EU-SILC results (in 2014-2017) and European Central Bank conducted survey on Household income and expenses survey results, results are compared with the results of other Eurozone countries. Survey results are analysed using indicators of descriptive statistics (indicators of central tendency or location - arithmetic mean, mode, median), indicators of variability (indicators of dispersion - range, standard deviation and standard error of mean), cross-tabulations for regions in Latvia, for household members, for urban – rural living and analysis of variance - ANOVA are used. The results of analysis have indicated different challenges for decision makers on different levels.
Engaging Citizens in the Decision-Making Process
(Klaipeda University, 2019) Lielpēters, Eduars
The rapid development of internet and technologies in the 21th century is providing an opportunity for the development of digital democracy – citizen engagement in the decision-making process in an easier, faster and more contemporary way. The paper analysis Latvian public administration’s attitude to the development of digital democracy in Latvia, looking into digital engagement as a possible solution that could foster the low rates of civic and political participation in Latvia. Research methods of the paper consists of an analysis of academic publications on digital democracy and political engagement, and survey to the representatives of the public administration in Latvia. Conclusions of the paper suggest that there are good preconditions for the development of digital democracy in Latvia, however, there is a need for a common regulation for how digital communication and online participation is coordinated. Public institutions should pay more attention to Latvian youth, educating them about public administration and political engagement, thus ensuring that gradually Latvian citizens become more knowledgeable about advantages and necessity to participate in the decision-making process of public administration in Latvia.
Wage Gap as a Possible Determinant of Gender Inequality
(2019) Vasina, Sabine Anete; Sloka, Biruta
Recent academic researchers have indicated that there are possible inequalities concerning work and pay in different countries, professions and economic sectors. The aim of current research is to analyse recent scientific findings on the wage gap depending on gender and empirical data in Latvia using EU-SILC surveys, Labour Surveys and monthly statistical data on wages and salaries for women and men. The findings indicated that in various economic fields and occupations women were under-represented, and amongst most of these fields the modal net wage interval for women was lower than the modal net wage interval for men. It was also concluded that in January 2018 the average gross income from work of women and men were statistically significantly different, confirming that men on average earned more than women.
Promoting Emotional Intelligence in Vocational Education as a Method to Achieve Employability of Graduates
(Klaipeda University, 2019) Līce, Anita; Sloka, Biruta
Emotional intelligence can play an important role in an individual’s education and career success. The purpose of this study is to evaluate the opinion of employers on the importance of competencies related to emotional intelligence in the recruitment process in Latvia, as well as the extent to which these competencies can be developed in vocational education and training. Total of 750 companies participated in this research, rating the importance of competencies and the performance of vocational education institutions using a four-point Likert scale. The list of methods currently applied in vocational education developing emotional intelligence competencies was developed through in-depth interviews with the managers of vocational education institutions. The research results show that most of employers evaluate ability to work independently, work motivation and problem-solving skills as very important in the recruitment process. Vocational education institutions need to pay more attention to improving ability to take responsibility in students. The main methods used by vocational education institutions to develop competencies linked to emotional intelligence are extra-curriculum activities, international events and mobility, as well as work-placements, which are supplements to education programmes rather than core curriculum, indicating to low link between emotional intelligence competencies and expected learning outcomes of vocational education. The research provides the basis for reconsidering the vocational education curriculum in the light of its contribution to development of competencies that are highly valued in the labour market.
Material Deprivation: a Case of Latvia
(Klaipeda University, 2019) Sloka, Biruta; Čīpane, Kate
Material deprivation has recently gained prominence as a topic of debate as its proliferation is raising throughout Europe in particular in the countries hit hardest by financial and economic turbulences what leads to the gap in material deprivation levels throughout Europe. The aim of the study is to analyze material deprivation in the regions of Latvia. Research methods used in preparation of the paper: scientific publication and previous conducted research results analysis, analysis of anonimised data of EU-SILC survey results and European Central Bank conducted survey on Household income and expenses survey results, results are compared with the results of other EU countries. Survey anonimised data are analyzed using indicators of descriptive statistics, cross-tabulations for regions of Latvia, for urban-rural living and analysis of variance – ANOVA are used. The results of analysis have indicated in what situation are regions of Latvia in the context of material deprivation especially in Latgale region and what are the challenges for decision makers to deal with – more attention for several approaches in reduction of income differences in regions of Latvia.
Sales Channels and Media Digitalization Impact on People Voluntary Savings for Retirement
(2019) Dundure, Evija; Sloka, Biruta
Due to the implementation of new technologies and orientation on digital solutions the communication and sales channels have changed dramatically. Information and client service on-line availability presents strong advantages for business, state agencies as well as customers. However, lack of personal interaction during the communication and sales process can make it difficult for people to understand and even frustrate their desire for a product or service. The purpose of the research is to analyse the digitalization impact on voluntary savings for retirement in Latvia and make comparisons with other countries. The voluntary pension schemes are the part of pension system and its third pillar created to strengthen and foster sustainability and adequacy of people income level after retirement. Main stakeholders in voluntary savings for retirement are pension funds as well as government agencies carrying out the national pension system policy. Among other motivation factors the people knowledge level about the necessity to participate in third pension level causes their willingness to create voluntary savings. Service providers chosen marketing and governments realized legislation policy impact the level of people engagement in private pensions and make a basis for people retirement period living standards. Research methods used are analysis of scientific publications and previous conducted research, analysis of statistical data and sales and communication channels in Latvia. The results of analyses show the challenges that service providers are facing and steps that should be taken to promote the voluntary savings in a digital era.
Determination Aspects of Possible Purchasing Prices for Blue Mussel Products from the Baltic Sea
(Journal of Economics and Management Research, 2019) Ozoliņa, Zaiga; Sloka, Biruta
Demand for marine products has been relatively high and is increasing in most of countries. With higher demand for higher-value and protein-rich products population is looking for other sources that could be protein-rich products and might be substitute for fish products. Blue mussel contains proteins and minerals therefore it might become as food and feed ingredient and supplement product for food. Experience in many countries world-wide where mussel production is more developed has indicated that important aspect in realisation of the production is effective marketing. The following research methods were used in the research: studies of scientific publications on blue mussel price and factors influencing the price, survey of different stakeholders in mussel farming – public administrators, entrepreneurs and researchers; expert interviews. The data obtained from the study were analysed by indicators of descriptive statistics, cross – tabulations, testing of statistical hypothesis with t–test and analysis of variance – ANOVA, as well as correlation analysis and one of the most applied multivariate analysis methods – factor analysis. Based on experts’ survey the results indicated that experts are ready to pay more for fresh mussel rather for than for frozen mussel. The most of expert’s answers indicated the purchase price 5 euros for kilogram of frozen blue mussel.
Overall Life Satisfaction In Latvia
(2019) Čipāne, Kate; Sloka, Biruta
The concept of life satisfaction has always been important part of providing well-being of population. Life satisfaction of inhabitants of the country is becoming a greater challenge for country to solve as it affects both personal and professional life of citizens and performances that are made in these fields therefore it is necessary to be aware of the current situation in order to know in what situation Latvia is, what are the challenges and what needs to be improved in the future. The purpose of the study is to analyse overall life satisfaction development in Latvia by gender, age group and education level. The tasks of the study: 1. to analyse different approaches of theoretical findings reflected in scientific publications and previous conducted research results of overall life satisfaction; 2. to investigate existing research findings of overall life satisfaction in the regions in EU and OECD countries; 3. to analyse main factors and problems affecting overall life satisfaction among inhabitants of Latvia. Research methods used in preparation of the paper: scientific publication and previous conducted research results analysis and analysis of Central Statistical Bureau of Latvia conducted survey data on Quality of Life results. Survey results are analysed using indicators of descriptive statistics (indicators of central tendency or location – arithmetic mean, mode, median), indicators of variability (indicators of dispersion – range, standard deviation and standard error of mean), cross-tabulations by age groups, by gender, by education level and by type of household. The results of analysis indicated that Latvia is among the most dissatisfied countries in Europe and for decision makers there are several challenges that need to be overcome.
Economic Activity in Context of Regions, Education Level, Age Group and Gender: Case of Latvia
(University of Latvia, 2019) Sloka, Biruta; Čipāne, Kate
In the National Development Plan of Latvia 2014–2020 it is written that society is aware that social, regional and opportunity inequalities can be reduced by a high overall employment rate in which everyone seeks for productivity. High employment rate is important not only for decreasing inequalities in country, but also for promoting economic growth. There have always been employment challenges in Latvia that are complex and insufficiently researched in academic research. The aim of the study is to analyse economic activity in Latvia by regions, education level, age group and gender. Research methods used in preparation of the article: scientific publication and previous conducted research results analysis, analysis of Labour Force Survey results (in 2014–2017) which are compared with the results of other European Union and OECD countries. Survey results are analysed using indicators of descriptive statistics (indicators of central tendency or location – arithmetic mean, mode, median), indicators of variability (indicators of dispersion – range, standard deviation and standard error of mean), cross-tabulations by regions in Latvia, by level of education, by age group, by gender and analysis of variance – ANOVA are used. The results of analysis indicated that the highest unemployment rate is in Latgale region and the higher the level of education, the less likely it is to be unemployed in Latvia.
Voluntary Private Investments Role in Pension System in Latvia
(Klaipeda University, 2019) Dundure, Evija; Sloka, Biruta
Pension systems have become one of the main priorities for the national governments. Developed countries population is getting older by putting the pressure on the state budgets and work age people tax load. The current pension system in Latvia performs according to regulation of state compulsory unfunded pension scheme since 1996 and regulation of the state funded or accumulated pension scheme since 2001. The third pension system pillar is private voluntary pension schemes realized in form of people contributions into pension funds and life insurance policies. Aim of the research – deeper analyses of voluntary private investments as the pension system part and its development challenges in Latvia. Research methods: scientific publications and previous conducted research analysis; analysis of time series on private pension fund developments in Latvia and comparisons with the situation in other OECD countries. The authors were looking for answer on the question – can voluntary private investments cover the gap between pre-retirement and after-retirement income of population in Latvia and what are the pre-conditions for it.
The Impact of Population Ageing and Social Stratification: The Case of Latvia
(2019) Rupeika-Apoga, Ramona; Romānova, Inna; Bule, Larisa; Thalassinos, Y.E.
Population ageing and social stratification is widely assumed to have detrimental effects on the economy yet there is little empirical evidence about the magnitude of its effects. The aim of this article is to investigate the relationships between population ageing and social stratification and the state of economy of a small and post-transition economy. We are looking for these relationships and their strength of influence; at what time after shocking these variables reach their original levels. We apply standard Granger (non-) causality tests, VAR (Vector Auto-Regressive), IRF (Impulse Response Function) and the prediction error variance analysis by using quarterly data from 2000 to 2018. Research results show that the changes in the level of GDP per capita and the number of pensions paid imply changes in the number of retired persons. The research results have important contribute to policy debates about the impact of population ageing and social stratification on the state of economy in small and post-transition economy.
Role of Education and Training on Income in Different Regions of Latvia
(2019) Sloka, Biruta; Tora, Ginta; Buligina, Ilze; Dzelme, Juris
Latvia is often critisised by international institutions on rising gap for income differences in several social groups. This current research is devoted to analyse of role of education and training on income level. Research methods used: scientific publications and previous conducted research analysis, analysis of EU-SILC data on differences in income depending from education level, from regions and from territory (urban/rural), interviews of regional authorities on life-long training arrangements and applications in regions with lower income level. Data analysis methods: descriptive statistics (indicators of central tendency or location, indicators of variability), cross-tabulations of household income by regions, by education level, by territories, testing of statistical hypotheses on differences of arithmetic means by t-test, by analysis of variance (ANOVA) for significance of income differences by regions and by education level. Results of analysis has indicated that several innovative approaches could be applied to find best solutions for income difference decrease and increase of overall satisfaction with life.
Analysis of affordability of meat, chicken, fish or vegetarian equivalent every second day in households in Latvia
(2019-05) Sloka, Biruta; Jekabsone, Inga
In recent years, there are growing research and policy discussions on assessment and analysis of poverty and measurement of material conditions. Researchers and policy makers develop different set of indicators that describes material deprivation. Material deprivation that is usually defined as the extent of functioning failures in the dimension of material well-being is based on set of different items that refer to affordability of basic needs. Affordability of meat, chicken, fish or vegetarian equivalent every second day is one of main indicators that characterizes meeting the basic needs of the households. In case of Latvia, macroeconomic indicators show that through recent years country is going on economic recovery path, however there are discussions on growing income inequality and poverty in regions. Taking into account before mentioned, the aim of the paper is to analyse the material deprivation and food poverty by assessing the affordability of meat, chicken, fish or vegetarian equivalent every second day in households in Latvia. The tasks are formulated as follows: 1) To review theoretical background on measuring the material deprivation and food poverty in households; 2) To assess empirical research on measuring the material deprivation and food poverty in households; 3) To analyse statistical data on households’ affordability in Latvia. In order to achieve the aim, following research methods have been used: scientific literature studies, statistical data analysis. Main results and conclusions of the paper: there is wide range of indicators and indexes that measure food poverty and material deprivation. Based on these measures policy makers develop framework for social inclusion and inclusive society. In case of Latvia, analysis of affordability of on measuring the material deprivation and food poverty in households showed that there is positive trend over the years in regards to the share of people that cannot afford to meet their basic needs. However, the situation is rather critical in some regions of Latvia.
Factors that motivate Latvian consumers to purchase products and services from social enterprises in Latvia: the case of socially responsible consumption
(2019-10-31) Casno, Kristīne; Šķiltere, Daina; Sloka, Biruta
The purpose of the study is to -determine the relative importance of various factors that motivate Latvian consumers to purchase products and services from social enterprises in order to provide practical suggestions and recommendations for Latvian social enterprises that would allow them to improve their performance. The primary method used by the study is quantitative research by the means of an online survey of Latvian consumers of social enterprise products /services. The results of the research indicate that Latvian consumers find the product / service quality aspects, as well as aspects of social responsibility and convenience of the shopping location, on average, as most motivating to purchase products / services of social enterprises. However, the results of factor analysis highlight the importance of emotional aspects during on-site shopping as well as the importance of digital presence. Focus on the aforementioned could lead to optimal performance of social enterprises with limited marketing budgets. Authors also found that such factors as pleasant atmosphere and friendly service have the highest potential to generate repeat purchases among Latvian consumers, as confirmed by a statistically significant correlational relationship between the aforementioned factors and actual purchasing behavior of Latvian social enterprise consumers. Online sales also have potential to increase the economic performance of Latvian social enterprises. Consumers who regard online shopping highly on average display a less active shopping behavior which could be improved by offering online shopping opportunities. Authors also found that, while communication of social value is still recommended as vital part of social enterprise marketing, it should not be the only focus of social enterprise marketing activities and associated communication.
Development of Household Income Towards Modern Welfare Economics in Latvia
(2020) Sloka, Biruta; Tora, Ginta; Buligina, Ilze; Dzelme, Juris
Latvia in international comparisons is among the countries with rather low average income for households but rather high differences in income in households, especially in highest income households (richest quintile) characterised with significant indicators of variability in euro zone countries by Household and Consumption Survey conducted buy Bank of Latvia by methodology of European Central Bank in all eurozone countries and according EU- SILC (European Union Statistics on Income and Living Conditions) data. This current research is devoted to analysis of development of income and variability of income of households in Latvia in comparison with other OECD countries and eurozone countries. Research methods used: scientific publications and previous conducted research analysis, analysis of Household and Consumption Survey data, EU-SILC data on differences in income depending household size, from regions and from territory (urban/rural), interviews of regional authorities on various income inequality reduction arrangements and applications in regions with lower income level. Data analysis methods: descriptive statistics (indicators of central tendency or location – arithmetic mean and median, indicators of variability – standard deviations, standard error of mean), cross-tabulations of household income by regions, by household size, by territories, testing of statistical hypotheses on differences of arithmetic means by analysis of variance (ANOVA) for significance of income differences by regions and by household size. Results of analysis has indicated that Latvia has significant challenges where several innovative approaches could be applied to find best solutions for income inequality decrease and increase of overall satisfaction with life and support for economic development of the country.
Digitalisation in Regions of Latvia – Problems and Challenges
(University of Latvia, 2020) Sloka, Biruta; Čipāne, Kate; Vasina, Sabine Anete; Volgasts, Emīls
Digital skills are defined as a basic competence, the same level as reading or writing and it is important for country to provide successful digitalisation in regions as regional development is the basis for national development. Purpose of the study is to analyse digitalisation in the regions of Latvia. The tasks of the study: 1) to analyse theoretical background of digitalisation in context of regional development; 2) to analyse existing research of digitalisation in the regions in EU; 3) to analyse problems of digitalisation in the regions of Latvia. Research methods used in preparation of this article: scientific publication and previous conducted research results analysis, analysis of Digital Economy and Society Index (DESI), EU-SILC results (in 2014–2017) and results of the survey realised in Latvia at the end of 2017 and beginning of 2018 on internet shopping in cooperation with company iMarketing.lv, University of Latvia and Chamber of Trade and Commerce of Latvia (n = 2513). Data are compared with the results of other Eurozone and OECD countries. For data analysis there were used indicators of descriptive statistics (indicators of central tendency or location – arithmetic mean, mode, median), indicators of variability (indicators of dispersion – range, standard deviation and standard error of mean), cross-tabulations for regions in Latvia, for household members, for urban – rural living and analysis of variance – ANOVA are used. The results of analysis have indicated different challenges for decision makers on different levels.
Work-based-learning development in Latvia: success and further challenges by views of educators, employers and students
(2020) Buligina, Ilze; Sloka, Biruta
Latvia is among countries showing significant results in the introduction and implementation of work-based learning – being a country with historically school based vocational education and training system. The current research is devoted to the analysis of developments and challenges of work-based learning in Latvia - by views of entrepreneurs, educators and students. Research methods used were: scientific publications and previous conducted research analysis, analysis of survey results of entrepreneurs, educators and students on several aspects of work-based-learning. To have deeper analysis of specific aspects of work-based-learning the respondents were asked to evaluate the analysed aspects in scale 1 – 10, where 1 – do not agree and 10 – fully agree. In the implementation of the survey the Confederation of Employers of Latvia was involved. Survey data analysis methods were: descriptive statistics (indicators of central tendency or location – arithmetic mean, mode and median, indicators of variability – standard deviations, standard error of mean), cross-tabulations of evaluations by educators, entrepreneurs and students by their information level on entrepreneurship development possibilities in Latvia, testing of statistical hypotheses on differences of arithmetic means by t-test, by analysis of variance (ANOVA) for significance of evaluations’ differences regarding the received support for the implementation of work-based learning. Results of analysis has indicated that Latvia has made a significant progress and presents achievements in the education and training of qualified specialists, as well as is aware of challenges. This refers to several innovative approaches that could be applied to find best solutions for a successful implementation of work-based-learning for the preparation of qualified specialists for the economic development of Latvia.
Regional Development: The Importance of the Involvement of Inhabitants and Innovative Approaches in Management
(Regional Formation and Development Studies, 2020) Štefenberga, Dace; Sloka, Biruta
Innovation and an innovative approach in management, education and leadership have been changing over decades, according to the dynamic world we are living in. Changes start at an individual level, with the personality, and only those who have changed themselves can start to lead others towards global change. The Latvian National Development Plan defined aspects of polycentric development for all the regions of Latvia. Each region has resources, strengths, weaknesses, opportunities and threats, but human resources are the most important resource for change, creative ideas and sustainable development. The education system changes very slowly, from lecture learning to a more inclusive ‘learning by doing’ approach. This approach has been used in northern countries for a while, but Latvia has just now started to implement the approach. The term ‘innovation’ today is wider than product, process, service or organisational innovation. At a national and regional level of development, it is crucial to encourage inhabitants of the region to stay in or return to rural areas, and create knowledge and enterprises in the region and their home town. The aim of the paper is to evaluate the involvement of residents in management activities and regional development processes, and their willingness to participate in the creation of knowledge and innovative entrepreneurship and co-creation. The paper is a review of literature on theoretical aspects of the creation of innovation in the region in a combination of survey analyses of residents. The methodological approach is based on two steps: a review of research literature, and an analysis of the results of a survey of residents of the region of their willingness to be involved in processes and tasks for regional development, and some aspects of analysis of entrepreneur opinion about innovative solutions in their companies. The article consists of four main parts: 1) the theoretical findings of a systemic approach to innovation and development; 2) the role of the innovation process in development from different perspectives; 3) an analysis of a survey of the region’s residents about their willingness to be involved in processes of regional development; 4) aspects of innovation used in regional entrepreneurship. The significance of the paper is to define aspects of regional development relating to innovation and co-creation.
Aptauja par attālināto darbu
(RECOVERY-LV, 2020) Brence, Ieva
Aptauja ir veikta projekta "Ekonomiskais, politiskais un juridiskais ietvars Latvijas tautsaimniecības potenciāla saglabāšanai un konkurētspējas pieauguma veicināšanai pēc pandēmijas izraisītas krīzes (reCOVery-LV)" ietvaros. Aptaujas mērķis ir novērtēt kā sabiedrība uztver valsts politikas atbilstību krīzes radītām sekām. Aptaujas rezultāti tika izmantoti zinātniskā raksta un monogrāfijas sagatavošanai.
2020. gada decembra socioloģiskās aptaujas tehniskā informācija
(RECOVERY-LV, 2020) Austers, Aldis
Aptauja ir veikta projekta "Ekonomiskais, politiskais un juridiskais ietvars Latvijas tautsaimniecības potenciāla saglabāšanai un konkurētspējas pieauguma veicināšanai pēc pandēmijas izraisītas krīzes (reCOVery-LV)" ietvaros. Aptaujas mērķis ir novērtēt kā sabiedrība uztver valsts politikas atbilstību krīzes radītām sekām. Aptaujas rezultāti tika izmantoti zinātniskā raksta un monogrāfijas sagatavošanai.

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