Duties and functions

The Speaker is one of the highest-ranking state officials who represents the Saeima, chairs and maintains order during the plenary sittings, as well as ensures that the sittings are held in accordance with the Rules of Procedure of the Saeima.

The Speaker is elected from among the Members of the Saeima.

The Speaker chairs the meetings of the Presidium and meetings during which MPs pose questions to the Prime Minister, members of the Cabinet of Ministers, or the Governor of the Bank of Latvia concerning matters which fall within the competence of these officials.

In cases specified in the Constitution of the Republic of Latvia, the Speaker temporarily assumes the duties of the President of Latvia. This occurs, for example, when the President of Latvia is abroad or resigns from office.

The Speaker is a member of the National Security Council. The Council coordinates a unified national security policy implemented by the highest public authorities and state officials.

An important duty of the Speaker is the development of diplomatic relations by meeting foreign dignitaries, delegations, and ambassadors, as well as by paying official or working visits abroad.

In addition to these duties, the Speaker also serves as an MP and participates in the work of the committees and subcommittees of the Saeima.

The staff of the Speaker’s Office assists the Speaker in his/her work

Insignia of the Speaker

A white flag with a cross of the same colour proportions as the Latvian national flag and the large national coat of arms in the top right segment is usually displayed in the Speaker’s office and on the vehicle which he/she uses.