Day of the International Recognition of Latvia

Day of the International Recognition of Latvia is observed annually on January 26. This day commemorates the moment in 1921 when the world’s major powers formally recognized the Republic of Latvia as a sovereign state under international law. While Latvia had declared its independence several years prior, this recognition was the final step in establishing the country as a legitimate member of the global diplomatic community. It is a day of national pride that highlights the success of Latvian diplomacy and the endurance of the nation’s statehood.

History of Day of the International Recognition of Latvia

The history of this day begins at the end of World War I, following Latvia’s proclamation of independence on November 18, 1918. For more than two years, Latvian diplomats and soldiers fought on two fronts: the military front of the War of Independence and the diplomatic front in European capitals. While the country had established de facto control over its territory by 1920, it still lacked de jure recognition, which was necessary to join international organizations, sign treaties, and establish permanent embassies. Latvian diplomats, led by Zigfrīds Anna Meierovics, worked tirelessly in Paris and London to convince the Great Powers of Latvia’s stability and democratic resolve.

The breakthrough occurred on January 26, 1921, in Paris. During a meeting of the Supreme Council of the Allied Powers, representatives from Great Britain, France, Italy, Japan, and Belgium officially recognized Latvia’s independence. At 5:00 p.m. that day, the Latvian representative in Paris received the confirmation that changed the nation’s status forever. This decision triggered a wave of recognitions from other countries around the world. Between the two World Wars, this date was celebrated as a major national holiday, second only to Independence Day, reflecting its importance in the historical consciousness of the Latvian people.

Why is Day of the International Recognition of Latvia important?

This day is important because it represents the legal birth of the Latvian state in the eyes of the world. De jure recognition is permanent and irrevocable; it meant that even during the subsequent decades of Soviet and Nazi occupations, the Republic of Latvia continued to exist as a legal entity under international law. This continuity allowed Latvian diplomatic missions in Western countries to remain open and active for half a century, providing a vital link to the country’s pre-war sovereignty. Without the achievement of January 26, the restoration of independence in 1991 would have been a far more difficult and legally uncertain process.

The observance also serves as “Diplomats Day” in modern Latvia, honoring the professionals who represent the country’s interests abroad. It emphasizes the power of peaceful negotiation and persistent foreign policy in securing a nation’s future. By celebrating this day, Latvians acknowledge their place in the European and global community, reaffirming their commitment to international law and democratic values. It is a reminder that a nation’s strength is measured not only by its borders but by the strength of its alliances and its standing among other sovereign states.

• Establishes the permanent legal status of Latvia as a subject of international law.
• Honors the diplomatic victory that secured the country’s seat in the League of Nations.
• Highlights the historical continuity of the Latvian state through periods of occupation.
• Recognizes the efforts of the first foreign minister, Zigfrīds Anna Meierovics.
• Strengthens ties with the “Entente” countries that first granted recognition.

How to Observe Day of the International Recognition of Latvia

Observing this day often involves attending official ceremonies organized by the Ministry of Foreign Affairs and the President’s office. A primary tradition is the laying of flowers at the Forest Cemetery in Riga, specifically at the final resting places of the first President, Jānis Čakste, and the first Foreign Minister, Zigfrīds Anna Meierovics. Many people visit the “De Jure Room” at the Foreign Ministry or attend public lectures that explain the complexities of 20th-century European diplomacy. In Riga, the flags of the original recognizing nations are often flown in front of Riga Castle to mark the occasion.

For the general public, the day is a time to reflect on Latvian identity and the country’s journey toward modern democracy. Schools and museums frequently host exhibitions featuring documents, telegrams, and photographs from the 1921 Paris negotiations. Many citizens choose to fly the national flag from their homes or wear traditional colors to show their respect for the nation’s history. It is also common for current diplomats to engage with the youth through video competitions or school visits, explaining how modern representation continues the work started by the founders of the republic.

• Visit the final resting places of the nation’s founding diplomats in Riga.
• Attend a public lecture or webinar on the history of Latvian foreign policy.
• Fly the national flag of Latvia to show your support for state sovereignty.
• View historical exhibits at the Museum of the Occupation or the National Library.
• Read the text of the 1921 recognition telegram to understand the era’s language.

Day of the International Recognition of Latvia Dates Table