The award for Historian of the Year 2025 has been presented to Aivars Stranga, recognizing his substantial contributions to historical research and popularization. The designation is based on results from an annual survey highlighting the most significant achievements in the field of history, with Stranga's life work particularly acclaimed. The survey's participants emphasized the importance of Stranga’s detailed study, titled "Latvia: The Time of Fateful Decisions. Occupation. 1939-1940," which was published by the Academic Press of the University of Latvia.

Stranga's monograph, encompassing over 800 pages, provides a comprehensive overview of a seemingly brief yet tumultuous period in Latvian history, focusing on events from early 1939 to June 1940. This era was marked by dramatic shifts as Latvia transitioned from declared neutrality to capitulation under the brutal ultimatum of the USSR, leading to the occupation of the state. The depth of research presented in Stranga's work sheds light on the complexities and tragedies faced by the Latvian people during these critical moments.

Despite the tragic themes of his work, Stranga's storytelling ability captivates readers and aids in understanding the intricate twists of fate experienced during this time. His research not only commemorates a crucial chapter in Latvia's past but also serves as an educational tool for current and future generations seeking to grasp the historical significance of Latvia's experiences during the early stages of World War II.