Scholarly record

ANALYSIS OF THE FACTORS AFFECTING DEVELOPMENT OF THE MARITIME TERRITORIES OF LATVIA

Dr.oec. Prof. Veronika Bikse, Dr.sc.admin. Una Libkovska, Mg. Inta Ozola

Abstract

The maritime territories play a significant environmental, economic, social, cultural and recreational role. It is therefore important to achieve a balanced, sustainable development to ensure equal opportunities for the population of all regions, bridging any gaps between the territories. Special attention is paid to developmental directions and opportunities of the maritime territories. The purpose of this research study is to identify the factors affecting development of the maritime territories of Latvia, perform analysis of them and develop recommendations for the reduction of territorial differences to provide equal opportunities for the residents of all regions, cities and rural areas of the country. The research methodology applied for this research study involves the theoretical concepts and framework of the factors affecting the territories. To get a deeper insight into the problem, a survey of 520 respondents (2016) was conducted in three maritime regions of Latvia. In addition, interviews with experts were conducted with the participation of the local government employees of all three municipalities of the region. The results of the research indicate that the maritime territories have high potential for business development : formation of new innovative companies, expansion of tourism and development of agriculture and industry. To be able to use this potential, it is important to improve the quality of the road surface, ensure availability of infrastructure and financial resources, reduce the tax burden and facilitate communication between the population and local governments and state institutions.

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