Institute of Literature, Folklore and Art of the University of Latvia (IFLA)
The flagship humanities research institution in Latvia that promotes the development of high-quality, responsible and open science.
We strive for excellence in high-level cultural and comparative research in the Baltic region, focusing on literature, folklore, music and performing arts, culture, gender studies, digital humanities, and environmental humanities.
Our research builds on generations of knowledge, as well as addressing contemporary issues, for which critical theories, interdisciplinary approaches, international collaboration and global academic dialogue play an important role.
Our team
Our team includes dozens of researchers and aspiring researchers from different generations. They are also academics, art critics, poets, writers, artists, musicians and members of the folklore movement.
Our activities contribute to the sustainability of the humanities, strengthening their role in society and on the agenda of decision-makers. They also broaden public opinion and enrich Latvia's cultural landscape.
We promote the transfer of knowledge and access to science, both locally and internationally, by making science more accessible to society.
Our tasks
• Conduct a wide range of humanities and interdisciplinary research
• Actively involve in shaping Latvia's academic culture
• Produce and publish scientific publications
• Cooperate with related institutions
• Create public digital collections
• Maintain the Latvian Folklore Repository, which is one of the world's largest folklore archives
• Promote dialogue between science and society
• Promote Latvian culture nationally and internationally
Roots of IFLA
The roots of IFLA can be traced back to 1924 with the foundation of the Latvian Folklore Repository, and to 1935 with the establishment of the Language Repository. In 1991, the Institute split into two independent research institutions: the Latvian Language Institute and the Institute of Literature, Folklore and Art of the Latvian Academy of Sciences. For over 80 years, our Institute has been a place where historical collections meet contemporary theoretical perspectives to create dynamic, critical and sustainable research.
Our mission
Scientific research into Latvian cultural heritage and its processes.
Our vision
To be a leader in the humanities in Latvia and an internationally sought-after research partner.
Research areas
• Literary studies
• Folklore Studies
• Music
• Performing Arts
• Digital Humanities
• Environmental Humanities
• Interdisciplinary Studies
Our values
• Scientific excellence
• Respect for cultural heritage
• Modernity and methodological diversity
• Solidarity and participation
• Active science communication