The Development of Territorial Cohesion Policies in Latvia

Abstract This article examines how territorial cohesion policies have taken shape in Latvia in response to European debates on the subject. It argues that the conceptualization of territorial cohesion in Latvia is closely linked to the country's historical development path and primarily reflects national concerns with social cohesion. While Latvian national and regional level institutions rely on open processes of policy-making and stakeholder involvement, which were developed during the period of post-soviet transition when the country's planning system and regional policy approach were reformulated, the same open and consultative approach is not always evident during the drafting or consi…

Adaptation to Floods in Riga, Latvia: Historical Experience and Change of Approaches

Urban–Rural Interactions in Latvian Changing Policy and Practice Context

AbstractThis article aims at a better comprehension of urban–rural interactions as a spatial concept and its utilization for spatial and regional policies. Based on literature review and on interviews with planners and experts, the article explores how the concept of urban–rural interactions is defined, characterized and structured. The understanding of urban and rural, how they are connected provides a basis for capturing complexities and development of urban–rural interactions. The study, reviews urban–rural policies and practises in Latvia. Contemporary built-up areas and lifestyles are influenced by imprints of past urban–rural interactions. Aspects of contextuality, cross-sectorality a…