Supported by the European Commission, the OECD Rethinking Regional Attractiveness programme helps policy makers understand how their regions can better attract talent, investors, and visitors in today’s changing world.
The regional case studies conducted by the OECD under this programme provide a snapshot of participating regions’ attractiveness profile, along with policy and multi-level governance considerations to guide participants in building upon each other’s best practices.
The Latgale Region lies on Latvia’s and the European Union’s easternmost border with Russia and Belarus. Once an important trading hub between Europe and countries to the East, it now faces significant attractiveness challenges brought on by Russia’s war of aggression in Ukraine and the subsequent border closure. Yet Latgale has distinct advantages including its rich cultural heritage and natural capital which it can capitalise through developing its tourism routes. Furthermore, enhancing the business environment, addressing housing challenges, and aligning education with sectoral strategies will strengthen the region's resilience and competitiveness.