Unclear when Latvia's army will see its first female general

Latvia's National Armed Forces (NBS) currently have four women serving on active duty at the rank of colonel: Ilze Žilde, Liene Karale, Evija Sīpola and Antoņina Bļodone. Žilde was the first woman to reach the rank of colonel in the Latvian armed forces and has held it for at least five years. So far, however, none of the four has been put forward for promotion to general.

Notably, women have previously held the rank of general in the related interior affairs and prison administration services, though none currently serves at that rank there.

How promotions work

Under the Military Service Law, the rank of general may be granted to a colonel with higher education who has completed a senior command course and served at least three years as colonel. Officer ranks are awarded by the President following a recommendation from the defense minister, while the Supreme Attestation Commission assesses eligibility.

NBS told the LETA news agency that the rank of brigade general can only go to colonels appointed to a position designated for that rank. The number of such positions is limited according to the organizational structure and needs, meaning promotion depends not only on meeting seniority and education requirements but also on the availability of a suitable post.

NBS stressed that each officer's eligibility is assessed individually, taking into account position requirements and service interests, and that simply having held the rank of colonel for a certain period does not automatically lead to nomination for promotion. The military declined to comment on the career prospects of specific officers, saying such information is considered restricted until an official decision has been made.