Edgars Rinkevics, Latvia’s former foreign minister, has been inaugurated as the eleventh president of the country since its independence in 1991. Notably, Rinkevics, who openly announced his sexual orientation as gay in 2014, joins the small number of LGBTQ+ heads of state in Europe. His presidency represents a significant milestone for LGBTQ+ representation and acceptance in the region, particularly in Baltic nations and eastern Europe where attitudes toward sexual minorities have historically been less tolerant than in western Europe. Rinkevics’ ascent to the presidency follows the departure of Egils Levits, the previous president who chose not to seek another term.
With his 12-year tenure as foreign minister, Rinkevics has earned recognition and popularity for his strong position on Russia and unwavering support for Ukraine. As he assumes the presidency for a four-year term, his extensive diplomatic experience will undoubtedly contribute to his leadership role. Rinkevics’ journey as an openly gay head of state reflects the progress made in promoting LGBTQ+ rights and representation in Europe, showcasing the evolving societal attitudes and increasing acceptance of diverse sexual orientations.
As Latvia remains an active member of the European Union since its accession in 2004, Rinkevics’ presidency holds significance within the context of the country’s engagement with the EU. The headquarters of the European Union are located in Brussels, serving as a central hub for policy-making and cooperation among member states. Krišjānis Kariņš holds the position of Prime Minister of Latvia, working alongside President Rinkevics to lead the nation in various domestic and international matters.