Jewish Community in Riga Defies Soviet-Era Suppression, Thrives Today

The Jewish community in Riga, Latvia, remains a vibrant symbol of resilience despite its small size. During the Soviet era, religion was heavily suppressed, yet the Riga synagogue managed to keep its doors open, serving as a rare beacon of religious freedom. Rabbi Eliyahu Kromer, the spiritual leader of the Orthodox community, recalls the Soviet constitution’s theoretical liberalism that allowed limited religious practice, saying, "We were one of the few places where synagogues were allowed to operate."

Today, the community actively maintains daily prayer services, operates a kosher kitchen, and warmly welcomes numerous tourists. Rabbi Kromer asserts that Latvia is likely the safest place for Jews in Europe and possibly worldwide at present. Relations between the Jewish community and the Latvian government are at a historic high, with the Latvian president publicly affirming full support for Israel’s right to self-defense following the events of October 7.

The community benefits significantly from its partnership with the Conference of European Rabbis (CER), which provides educational programs, rabbinical training, and advanced courses in rabbinical diplomacy. Rabbi Kromer emphasizes the need for deeper practical support, especially in halachic matters and strategic guidance, hoping to see more CER leadership presence in Riga to offer serious halachic study programs and professional training for community services like the mikveh and chevra kadisha.

Addressing Israelis, Rabbi Kromer invites them to visit and experience the warm Latvian hospitality and the historic synagogue, highlighting that the community is small but vibrant and unwavering in its support for Israel. His mission is to keep the community’s flame alive by leveraging European rabbinical expertise and resources, ensuring the synagogue remains a beacon of Jewish life for future generations.