Risk Management in Latvia Municipal Social Services for Sustainable Well-Being of the Population ^†

The European Pillar of Social Rights, adopted in November 2017, sets out 20 principles with the explicit aim of promoting upward convergence to create better living and working conditions in Europe. This helps fight poverty in all its forms and ensures fair, adequate and sustainable social security systems. For several years now, the world and Latvia have been witnessing a change in political systems and ideologies, and rapid technological developments, especially in information technology. Today, we can see how the methods of administration in local government and the forms of customer service in the public sector are changing and what the benefits of change are for the population; however, the risks that can significantly affect the organization of work and communication with customers in local government institutions for the promotion of social welfare in a sustainable way are not fully identified. The aim of the research—based on the scientific literature, regulatory framework and the findings of the empirical study—is to develop a risk assessment, in accordance with the specifics of social services in Latvia, to promote the social well-being of the population with sustainability. Methods of research: theoretical research methods—literature research and analysis and regulatory analysis—and empirical research methods—survey, statistical analysis and expert interviews. Results of the research: Summarized conclusions on the need for risk management in municipal social services and a risk assessment developed in accordance with the specifics of social services. The obtained research results can become a basis for further research and risk management approval in Latvian municipal services.