Today, the Saeima of Latvia adopted a special declaration that condemns the use of repressive psychiatric methods during the time of the totalitarian communist regime of the Soviet Union in Latvia. The declaration recognizes that individuals who were unjustly placed in psychiatric institutions for political reasons during the Soviet years have the right to rehabilitation and justice. It emphasizes the need to address the historical injustices faced by these individuals under the totalitarian regime.

According to the declaration, from June 17, 1940, until August 21, 1991, the Soviet totalitarian regime implemented repressive measures against the people of Latvia, particularly against those who resisted the occupation and fought for the restoration of Latvia's independence. The declaration highlights that these oppressive tactics included the use of repressive psychiatry, which involved the imposition of unfounded psychiatric diagnoses and unjust detention of individuals in psychiatric facilities, primarily motivated by political agendas rather than genuine mental health concerns.

This declaration signifies a crucial step towards acknowledging the historical wrongs committed during the Soviet occupation and addressing the mental health abuses that were part of a broader strategy of political repression. By formally recognizing the plight of those victimized by these psychiatric practices, the Saeima aims to promote healing, justice, and the historical memory of a painful era in Latvia’s history.