Latvian Senate Gains Right to Seek ECtHR Advisory Opinions

As of March 1, 2026, Latvia's Supreme Court (the Senate) and the Constitutional Court are authorized to request advisory opinions from the European Court of Human Rights (ECtHR) on interpreting or applying rights and freedoms under the European Convention on Human Rights. This development follows Latvia's ratification of Protocol 16 to the Convention, aiming to enhance the uniform application of human rights standards within the national legal system. While these advisory opinions are non-binding, they provide valuable guidance on complex legal issues. The law facilitating this change took effect on November 6, 2025, with the protocol becoming active in Latvia on March 1, 2026. Latvia joins 26 other member states in adopting this protocol, reflecting a commitment to strengthening human rights protections.