AS 'Sadales tīkls', the operator of the electricity distribution system in Latvia, has recently dismissed two employees who are citizens of Russia and Belarus. This action was taken in accordance with the National Security Law, which prohibits the employment of individuals from these countries in critical infrastructure sectors. The law specifies that if the work involves access to significant information or technological equipment essential for the functioning of critical infrastructure, such employment is strictly forbidden unless granted specific permission by national security authorities.

The legal framework under which this decision was made highlights Latvia's concerns regarding national security, particularly in the context of ongoing geopolitical tensions in Eastern Europe. The regulation bans the involvement of Russian and Belarusian nationals in A, B, and C category critical infrastructure jobs, reflecting a broader initiative to safeguard national interests against potential threats. This aligns with various European security measures that aim to restrict access to sensitive infrastructure.

This employment termination is a clear example of how national security legislation is being implemented in Latvia, following similar patterns adopted by other European countries. It raises important discussions about employment rights and access for foreign nationals, and the balance between security and international labor standards. As geopolitical instability continues, more such measures may emerge, impacting foreign nationals and the sectors they are allowed to work in.