Lawyer Blames Governments' Irresponsible Policy for Energy Crisis

Sworn attorney Jānis Dzanuškāns said on the TV24 programme “Preses klubs” (Press Club) that the energy crisis is rooted in political decisions made by states. In his view, irresponsible policy, incompetence and irrational action have led to the current situation. The programme addressed the question of whether residents should wash less often to save money during the crisis.

Reference to a German minister's advice

Dzanuškāns recalled that a few years ago a German economy or finance minister reportedly advised people to shower less to save energy. The lawyer said that in the circumstances people will have no choice but to economise, and everyone will do so in their own way, because “somehow one has to survive”.

Decisions he cites as causes

According to Dzanuškāns, several political decisions shaped the crisis. He named the war in Iraq, the European Union's green policy, the abandonment of nuclear energy and fossil fuels, and what he considers an unsuccessfully implemented sanctions policy.

The lawyer also argued that Europe placed too much hope in wind power, assuming it could supply the required amount of energy.

Warning that the crisis could deepen

Dzanuškāns warned that the energy crisis could become even more severe if policymakers do not change their current course. He said it would grow if nothing changes regarding what he described as wrong, incorrect and incompetent political decisions.

These are the lawyer's personal assessments, voiced in a television discussion in November 2026.