From Ukraine to the Indo-Pacific: what Australia can learn from Latvia on resilience

The ANU National Security College was pleased to host Ivars Lasis, Under-Secretary of State (Political Director) at Latvia’s Ministry of Foreign Affairs, for a timely discussion on geostrategic contestation and today’s increasingly complex security environment. 

Latvia’s experience on the frontline of Russian aggression continues to shape its approach to national resilience. In response to an evolving threat landscape, Latvia has strengthened defence preparedness, reintroduced national service, and enhanced crisis coordination across government and society. 

At the heart of this approach is a whole-of-society model of national defence – recognising that resilience is not the responsibility of government alone, but requires coordinated effort across communities, institutions, and international partnerships. 

For Australia, the lesson is clear: strengthening national resilience will require deeper integration across government, industry, and society, alongside sustained collaboration with like-minded partners in both Europe and the Indo-Pacific. 

The event also highlighted the importance of engaging the next generation, with strong participation from student organisations including the ANU International Relations Society and the Society for National Security – ensuring future leaders are part of the resilience conversation. 

We thank Ivars Lasis and distinguished guests, including Her Excellency Samija Šerifa, for contributing to this valuable exchange between Australia and Latvia.