ZZS at a Glance

Flag of Latvia

Zaļo un Zemnieku savienība

Union of Greens and Farmers

Political Compass
Conservative
Social
Market-oriented
Progressive
Stance on the EU
Anti-EU
Pro-EU
The Zaļo un Zemnieku savienība (ZZS) is a center-right alliance in Latvia that combines agrarian-conservative interests with environmentally-minded protectionism. It is considered a pragmatic force, emphasizing traditional rural values and Latvia's economic sovereignty.

Values and Worldview

The ZZS's foundation rests on two pillars: the preservation of the rural way of life and an ecologically conscious patriotism. Its worldview is deeply shaped by a nostalgic patriotism that views rural life as the nation's moral core. In this perspective, the state is seen less as a progressive architect and more as a guardian of local identity and national resources. Unlike many Western European green parties, its ideology is more conservatively preservationist than socially liberal.

Policy Priorities

The ZZS agenda primarily targets Latvia's rural population, farmers, and small business owners outside the metropolitan area of Riga. It advocates for substantial support for the agricultural sector, the protection of Latvian farmland from foreign investors, and a prudent fiscal policy. While its social policies are traditionally conservative, its economic stance champions a strong nation-state that prioritizes domestic producers. The party effectively occupies the niche of those who feel marginalized by the rapid modernization driven by liberal urban elites.

Role in the Political System

Within Latvia's political system, the ZZS operates as a classic kingmaker party with a strong inclination towards government participation. Its strategy is characterized by pronounced pragmatism, making it adaptable to various coalition formations. However, its close ties to influential local actors and economic interest groups frequently draw criticism regarding the transparency of its decision-making processes. Despite these tensions, it remains a stable anchor for voters demanding continuity and robust regional representation.

Key Policy Areas & Ideological Alignment

This chart illustrates the key issues for the party. Points further from the center indicate higher significance.

Core Positions & Policy Platforms

Stance 2024
Stance 2019

Economy & State

Wealth Redistribution
Pro-Redistribution
Market-Driven
Fiscal Policy
Public Investment
Austerity & Tax Cuts
Trade Policy
Free Trade
Protectionism

Society & Values

Civil Liberties vs. Security
Civil Liberties
Law & Order
Gender Equality Measures
Pro-Promotion
Against Promotion
LGBTQ+ Equality
Pro-Equality
Traditional Values
Same-Sex Marriage
Pro-Marriage
Against
Religion in Politics
Secularism
Religious Influence
Urban vs. Rural Priority
Focus on Urban Areas
Focus on Rural Areas

Environment & Climate

Environment vs. Economy: What's More Important?
Environmental Protection Over Economic Growth
Economic Growth Over Environmental Protection
Climate Action vs. Economic Growth
Climate Protection First
Economic Growth First

Migration & Integration

Immigration Policy
Open
Restrictive
Integration & Culture
Multiculturalism
Assimilation
Rights for Ethnic Minorities
Expand Rights
Equal Treatment Only
National Sovereignty
Cosmopolitan
Nationalist

Democracy & Institutions

Executive Power Distribution
Decentralized
Strong Executive
Judicial Independence
Independent
Executive Oversight
State Organization
Federalism
Centralism

Historical Election Results

ZZS: Election Result Trends in Latvia

History of Government Participation since 1945

Power Dynamics: Historical Government Roles
Leading Government
In Government
13

Total Cabinet Participations

Total Duration: 17 years • 4 months • 5 days

2

Cabinets Led

Total Duration: 4 years • 1 day

11

Coalition Participations

Total Duration: 13 years • 4 months • 4 days

45%

Time in Government

The party participated in government for 45% of the legislative period.

Siliņa
2022
JV
ZZS
P
Kucinskis I
2014
ZZS
TB/LNNK
V
Straujuma II
2014
ZZS
TB/LNNK
V
Straujuma I
2011
ZRP
V
TB/LNNK
ZZS
Dombrovskis III
2010
V
ZZS
Dombrovskis II
2006
JL
ZZS
TB/LNNK
PS
Dombrovskis I
2006
TP
JL
ZZS
TB/LNNK
PS
Godmanis II
2006
TP
ZZS
LPP/LC
TB/LNNK
Kalvitis III
2006
TP
ZZS
LPP/LC
TB/LNNK
Kalvitis II
2002
TP
ZZS
LPP
Kalvitis I
2002
JL
TP
ZZS
LPP
Emsis
2002
TP
ZZS
LPP
Repse
2002
JL
ZZS
LPP
TB/LNNK

Data Sources and Methodology

PolitPro

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ParlGov – Parliamentary Democracy Data

A comprehensive research database from the University of Bremen, documenting parties, elections, and governments for comparative analysis.

Additional Sources

Döring, Holger and Philip Manow. 2024. Parliaments and governments database (ParlGov).

CHES – Chapel Hill Expert Survey

The leading expert survey on party positions in Europe. Over 400 political scientists document party stances based on rigorous scientific criteria.

Additional Sources

Rovny, Jan, et al. “25 Years of Political Party Positions in Europe: The Chapel Hill Expert Survey, 1999-2024.”