On March 25-26, 2025, Daugavpils University was represented at the international Baltic Catching-up Regions Forum, where key issues affecting border regions were discussed. Demographic challenges, rural depopulation, security concerns, and a lack of investors and funding were among the primary topics impacting Latgale as well as similar regions in Lithuania and Estonia. The Baltic Catching-up Regions Forum was held in Daugavpils and was organized in cooperation with the European Commission and the World Bank.

Daugavpils University representatives—Sanita Kecko, head of the Institute of Life Sciences and Technology, and Jeļena Tamane, rector’s assistant —actively participated in the forum’s discussions and activities. The main goal of the forum was to foster interregional cooperation, identify development challenges, and collectively seek for innovative solutions to improve residents’ quality of life and security.

“In the forum discussions, we emphasized the role of science and education in promoting regional development. Daugavpils University is ready to contribute by collaborating with international and local partners to develop economic potential and improve social conditions,” – stressed Sanita Kecko.

The World Bank is conducting an in-depth study on the economic situation and business support opportunities in the Latgale region. As part of this research, cooperation with Daugavpils University has been established. Moving forward, Daugavpils University plans to actively engage in regional and international cooperation initiatives to promote sustainable development and improve the well-being of Latgale’s residents.