Integration monitor is a daily Latvian press digest on ethnic minority and society integration issues. The Monitor reviews the biggest Latvian dailies: Diena, Latvijas Avize, Neatkariga (in Latvian language), Vesti Segodnya (in Russian language). In specific cases other information sources are used. Latvian Centre for Human Rights is not responsible for information published by the media.

• President of Latvia Andris Berzins: Russian community is an important part of the society
• Prime Minister’s adviser on integration issues Sarmite Elerte wants to introduce the days of ethnic minorities in Latvia
• 20% of ethnic Latvians are married to representatives of other ethnicities

Yesterday, at the opening of the Days of Russian culture in Latvia organisers of the event read the greeting of the President of Latvia Andris Berzins. According to the President, Russian community is an important part of the society which has deep historical ties with Latvian state. “Russian community enriches our society by its contributions in culture, art and economy. Understanding cultural values in relations between nations is a key element to find a common language and mutual understanding in its wide sense. Therefore, the Days of Russian Culture in Latvia helps to establish the basis for good mutual relations of two nations” – believes the President. Chas

Chas reports that the Prime Minister’s adviser on integration issues Sarmite Elerte wants to introduce the days of ethnic minorities in Latvia. If the Cabinet of Ministers grants funding for such aim, the days of ethnic minorities might be conducted later this year. Mrs Elerte believes such event would promote integration and consolidation of the society.

Neatkariga reports that about 20% of ethnic Latvians are married to representatives of other ethnicities and this proportion does not change for many years. Among ethnic minorities, 40% of ethnic Russian residents are married to representatives of other ethnicities. Among other ethnic minorities, ethnically mixed marriages are even more widespread.