As part of UN:BLOCK Europe 2026, a high-level political debate titled “Is the cryptocurrency and blockchain sector beneficial for Latvia?” will take place, focusing on the development of digital assets, blockchain technologies, and the financial system in Latvia and across Europe.
The discussion will address one of the most pressing questions — how countries can adapt to the rapidly growing digital finance economy and what concrete steps are needed for Latvia to become more competitive in fintech and blockchain innovation.
The debate will also focus on how Latvia and Europe can leverage opportunities created by blockchain and digital assets while ensuring a secure, transparent, and investor-friendly environment.
Key topics of the debate will include:
- European digital asset regulation, including MiCA
- Real-world asset tokenization (RWA)
- The impact of stablecoins on payments
- Blockchain integration into traditional financial systems
- Artificial intelligence and cybersecurity in finance
In addition, the debate will address practical policy questions — what concrete steps policymakers are prepared to take to modernize Latvia’s regulatory environment and strengthen the country's competitiveness in the global fintech and blockchain ecosystem.
Participants will also evaluate what regulatory and technological improvements are needed to foster innovation, attract investment, and support the entry of new companies into Latvia.
Political Participants
The debate will feature:
- Viktors Valainis — Minister of Economics of Latvia (Union of Greens and Farmers)
- Kristaps Krištopāns — Member of Parliament (Latvija pirmajā vietā)
- Aiva Vīksna — Member of Parliament (United List)
- Gatis Eglītis — Member of Parliament (National Alliance)
- Jānis Patmalnieks — Member of Parliament (New Unity)
- Mārtiņš Krusts — Member of Parliament (We Change the Rules)
- Mārtiņš Mieriņš — Member of Parliament (The Progressives)
Free First Day Attendance
Attendance on the first day of the conference, including the political debate on April 1, will be free of charge, but prior registration is required:
This opportunity is made possible with the support of the Latvian Investment and Development Agency (LIAA).
About UN:BLOCK Europe 2026
UN:BLOCK Europe 2026 is one of the largest Web3 and fintech conferences in Northern Europe. The event will take place in Riga on April 1–2 and will bring together more than 2,500 participants from over 40 countries, including investors, fintech companies, regulators, and policymakers.
The conference serves as a platform for discussions on the future of digital assets, regulation, and financial market transformation, while promoting collaboration between the public and private sectors.
Organizers note that the political debate could become an important milestone for Latvia’s digital economy development, helping define the country's role in the global fintech ecosystem and strengthening cooperation between public and private sectors.
The conference is organized by the UN:BLOCK Europe team in cooperation with the Latvian Blockchain Development Association, Gravity Team, Sorainen, and other partners.
The event is co-funded under the European Union Cohesion Policy Programme 2021–2027, within the support measure for strengthening research and innovation capacity and implementing advanced technologies in businesses.
More information about the UN:BLOCK Europe 2026 event calendar:
https://luma.com/user/unblockeurope
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