The winner of the Turība University “Honorary Award 2024” in the nomination for Honorary Doctor Dr.iur. Linards Muciņš has had to make important decisions about the future of his career and also the future of the state of Latvia.

What feelings and emotions did you experience when you learned that you would receive the title of Honorary Doctor at the Turība University “Honorary Award 2024” ceremony?

This fact was successfully hidden from me and managed to create a surprise, until the faculty management contacted me and congratulated me. I have been a lecturer at several universities and have been working with students for more than 25 years, so I perceive this award as recognition not only from Turība, but for all the time spent as a lecturer.

What does receiving of this award mean to you?

This is a great honor and respect from Turība, although during my life I have had to choose between academic activities and a political career.

What are the biggest differences between working in the legal sector and academic one?

Working in the legal sector and academic is significantly different. Legal work is more practical than academic, but working at a university with students offers opportunities for mutual self-growth - for both students and faculty, through the interaction of different experiences and knowledge. When working with students, it is necessary to look deeper into the situation and study the issue more, and pedagogical skills are also needed, especially when working with undergraduate students.

What motivated you to choose law as your calling in life?

No one in my family has been involved in the legal field before, but the choice to start a career in law was influenced by the desire to fight for justice and solve crimes. I also thought about becoming an engineer, because I was good at math and knew how to use technology to show movies. However, legal studies took precedence, where I entered the law school through a competitive examination, beating 17 applicants for one place.

What principles or life lessons have guided you when making the most important decisions in your life?

In my opinion, it is important to always speak up, no matter how difficult it is often to get up and argue with someone. The awareness that what someone says may seem unpleasant or too harsh can be a deterrent, but the truth and your thoughts should always be spoken out loud, regardless of what profession you represent.

Is there a moment in your career that you remember as particularly emotional or challenging?

One of the most challenging times in my life has been since 1988, during the formation of the Popular Front and the parliamentary elections, after which I voted for the restoration of the independence of Latvia. This was followed by work at the Ministry of the Interior, where I often had to face various challenges.

Is there a hobby or activity that helps me maintain balance?

One of my favorite hobbies is history and its research – both the history of law, which is related to professional activity, and the history of Latvia in the 20th century in general. In connection with this, I am also interested in Ancient Greek culture, history and art. Since there are not many opportunities to collect Ancient Greek artifacts myself, the digital options available today are useful for research and at least for preserving photographs. Speaking of art, I also delve into the works of Latvian artists. I am particularly fond of the works of Jānis Pauļuks and Jānis Tīdemanis.

What advice would you give to today's young people, students, who are on the path to building their professional careers?

I recommend not only students, but also schoolchildren to read as much as possible and improve themselves through various types of literary sources, developing their imagination and fantasy.