A COMPARATIVE ANALYSIS OF FAMILY SUPPORT POLICIES IN THE CONTEXT OF NORWAY, ESTONIA, IRELAND, POLAND, AND THE NETHERLANDS

Abstract

Demographic and migration factors have had a profound impact on the Latvian economy since the country regained its independence, creating both challenges and opportunities that require in-depth analysis. This research examines these factors, emphasizing their importance for the development of the Latvian economy. To better understand the experiences of other European countries in shaping family support policies, five very different countries were selected: Norway, Estonia, Ireland, Poland, and the Netherlands. These case studies aim to provide information and recommendations for improving the Latvian policy framework, including factors related to prosperous family support systems observed in these comparable countries.

In a situation of prolonged depopulation, Latvia faces the greatest challenges, increasing population ageing and low birth rates, which contribute to population decline, negatively affecting the labour market and economic productivity (Klotmiņš and Krišjāne, 2016). The study aims to analyze how these demographic changes, combined with migration patterns, affect the Latvian economy in terms of labour participation and economic growth. In addition, the study aims to examine how family support policies in other European countries can serve as a model for Latvia to promote higher birth rates and improve job retention.