Historically, the Latvian Science Council (LCS) was established by Decision No. 44 of the Council of Ministers of the Republic of Latvia of July 3, 1990 “On the Establishment of the Latvian Science Council” to democratize the scientific management system, increase the efficiency of scientific work and ensure maximum efficient use of financial means on the basis of project calls. The main goal of LCS was to promote the development and implementation of science and technology development policy in Latvia in accordance with the direction and requirements of the European Union.
According to Article 14 of the Law on Scientific Activity, until June 30, 2020, LCS was a collegial institution of scientists, which was established as a direct administrative institution under the supervision of the Ministry of Education and Science. The term of office of the Council was three years. LCS operated as a collegial institution on the basis of the Cabinet of Ministers Regulations No. 383 of May 9, 2006 “Regulations of the Latvian Council of Science“.
In accordance with the Cabinet of Ministers Order No. 151 of April 1, 2020 “On Reorganization and Liquidation of Public Administration Institutions Subordinated to the Ministry of Education and Science”, from July 1, 2020 the functions of implementing the science policy under the LCS and the Administration of Studies and Science have been merged.
As of July 1, 2021, LCS will take over the science and research policy support functions, which are currently implemented by the Science and Research Policy Support Department of the State Education Development Agency.