Press Report

Press Report

Diena

publishes comments by columnist Visvaldis Laâcis to the article Language, Democracy and Western Values by OSCE Mission to Latvia Head P.Semneby (Diena, 29 November). V.Lacis blames the officials of the EU and the OSCE, in particular Mr.Semneby for ignoring all international legal and moral aspects and not understanding the real values and the truth. He provides the quotes of several Swedish politicians and academics concerning Latvia and Russia relations and Soviet occupation, where these politicians and academics acknowledge the fact that Russia occupied Latvia and suffered heavy consequences. V.Lacis arguments against the statements of the Europeans that the issues of national minorities are the main problem for Latvia, in his opinion, Russian migrants who came to Latvia after World War II, makes Latvias position difficult and it is wrong to consider these people a minority. As well as he refers to the national policies concerning national minorities of Sweden and Germany, saying, Sweden does not recognise 40 thousand Estonians who came to Sweden 57 years ago and now are the citizens of Sweden as a minority. V.Lacis also gives his interpretation of the UN Covenant on Civil and Political Rights stating that the Latvians and Latvia are the ones that are under the threat and should be protected with international legal instruments. publishes comments by columnist Visvaldis Laâcis to the article “Language, Democracy and Western Values” by OSCE Mission to Latvia Head P.Semneby (Diena, 29 November). V.Lacis blames the officials of the EU and the OSCE, in particular Mr.Semneby for ignoring all international legal and moral aspects and not understanding the real values and the truth. He provides the quotes of several Swedish politicians and academics concerning Latvia and Russia relations and Soviet occupation, where these politicians and academics acknowledge the fact that Russia occupied Latvia and suffered heavy consequences. V.Lacis arguments against the statements of the Europeans that the issues of national minorities are the main problem for Latvia, in his opinion, “Russian migrants who came to Latvia after World War II, makes Latvia’s position difficult and it is wrong to consider these people a minority”. As well as he refers to the national policies concerning national minorities of Sweden and Germany, saying, “Sweden does not recognise 40 thousand Estonians who came to Sweden 57 years ago and now are the citizens of Sweden as a minority”. V.Lacis also gives his interpretation of the UN Covenant on Civil and Political Rights stating that the Latvians and Latvia are the ones that are under the threat and should be protected with international legal instruments. Society Integration Foundation has distributed the funds for the approved integration projects. In total 60 projects were submitted to the Foundation and 22 were approved with total funding of the amount of LVL 126 845. More funding is allotted for projects targeted at social integration (54%) than to the projects targeted to ethnic integration (46%).

Society Integration Foundation has distributed the funds for the approved integration projects. In total 60 projects were submitted to the Foundation and 22 were approved with total funding of the amount of LVL 126 845. More funding is allotted for projects targeted at social integration (54%) than to the projects targeted to ethnic integration (46%). Diena

Chas comments that “first, again education and culture projects for national minorities were not approved and did not get money. Second, the work of the Foundation overlaps the work of National Programme of the Latvian Language Learning”.

Chas comments that first, again education and culture projects for national minorities were not approved and did not get money. Second, the work of the Foundation overlaps the work of National Programme of the Latvian Language Learning.

Representatives of alliance of leftist forces For Human Rights in United Latvia, Latvia's Russian Community and Latvia's Citizens and Non-citizens Union asked in an open letter to Vaira Vike-Freiberga not to impose "forceful replacement of native tongue" with the state language which, the authors of the letter believe, may harm society integration and "strengthen splitting within Latvia's society". According to the letter, signed by MP Jakovs Pliners from the alliance of leftist forces, Russian Community head Vjaceslavs Altuhovs and Citizens and Non-citizens Union head Vladimirs Sokolovs, the intention to transfer to Latvian as the language of instruction at all public secondary schools as of 2004 is in contradiction with the basic idea of society integration and the international rights of minorities. The letter states that society integration should not be forced in any area, saying "Mrs. President, we believe that you too agree to that principle". Pliners, talking to reporters on Wednesday, pointed at the low quality of Latvia's education which is proved by international research but "the ruling parties, despite protests and international norms concerning minorities, want to stop financing" the secondary schools with Russian language of instruction. Pliners believes representatives of minorities should have state language literacy but "children are better developing if they study in their native tongue".

Representatives of alliance of leftist forces For Human Rights in United Latvia, Latvia's Russian Community and Latvia's Citizens and Non-citizens Union asked in an open letter to Vaira Vike-Freiberga not to impose "forceful replacement of native tongue" with the state language which, the authors of the letter believe, may harm society integration and "strengthen splitting within Latvia's society". According to the letter, signed by MP Jakovs Pliners from the alliance of leftist forces, Russian Community head Vjaceslavs Altuhovs and Citizens and Non-citizens Union head Vladimirs Sokolovs, the intention to transfer to Latvian as the language of instruction at all public secondary schools as of 2004 is in contradiction with the basic idea of society integration and the international rights of minorities. The letter states that society integration should not be forced in any area, saying "Mrs. President, we believe that you too agree to that principle". Pliners, talking to reporters on Wednesday, pointed at the low quality of Latvia's education which is proved by international research but "the ruling parties, despite protests and international norms concerning minorities, want to stop financing" the secondary schools with Russian language of instruction. Pliners believes representatives of minorities should have state language literacy but "children are better developing if they study in their native tongue". Chas, Vesti Segodnja, Telegraf, Panorama Latvii

Saeima Education, Science and Culture Committee when discussing the amendments to the Law on Municipalities regarding the regulating the usage of the Latvian language drafted by FF/LNNK has concluded that the usage of the Latvian language is already regulated by the State Language Law and the submitted amendments even narrows the area of the usage of the state language.

Saeima Education, Science and Culture Committee when discussing the amendments to the Law on Municipalities regarding the regulating the usage of the Latvian language drafted by FF/LNNK has concluded that the usage of the Latvian language is already regulated by the State Language Law and the submitted amendments even narrows the area of the usage of the state language. Diena

Chas

informs that Saeimas Social Democrats faction decided not to support the initiative of the President to abolish language requirements for election candidates. informs that Saeima’s Social Democrats faction decided not to support the initiative of the President to abolish language requirements for election candidates. Latvian prime minister Thursday will depart for a working visit in Brussels to join a meeting of Europe's liberal-democratic and reform party leaders on Friday. A.Berzins in Brussels is scheduled to meet also NATO Secretary General George Robertson and join a dinner with NATO member countries ambassadors in Brussels.

Latvian prime minister Thursday will depart for a working visit in Brussels to join a meeting of Europe's liberal-democratic and reform party leaders on Friday. A.Berzins in Brussels is scheduled to meet also NATO Secretary General George Robertson and join a dinner with NATO member countries ambassadors in Brussels. Latvijas Vestnesis

A statement on a "film about Latvia on the Russian State Television [RTR]" has been worked out within the Russian Duma, it expresses indignation over the film's "extremely biased" content, the newspaper

A statement on a "film about Latvia on the Russian State Television [RTR]" has been worked out within the Russian Duma, it expresses indignation over the film's "extremely biased" content, the newspaper Vesti Segodnja reports today. RTR aired the documentary on Latvia November 28, part of the series "The Former Union". The deputies are indignant that the film, instead of speaking of "the actual situation with compatriots in Latvia", chose to show only the "family life of Russian businessmen". The draft statement says that the film's authors have not touched upon "screaming problems" - the large number of non-citizens, social and economic discrimination of Russian residents, language restrictions. Diena, Neatkariga

Vesti Segodnja

talks to FHRUL member M.Mitrafanov. In regard to Presidents initiative to abolish language requirements for election candidates he says, We have to conclude that the deal – the OSCE closure for such trifle [the abolishment of language requirements] is small cheating from the party of the international community. He also blames OSCE for not taking stronger position in the issues of national minorities in Latvia. M.Mitrafanovs voices the strong opposition against the education reform in 2004. Education and science minister Karlis Greiskalns announced that he does not see any reasons why the transfer to secondary education in the Latvian language as the only instruction language should be postponed.

Education and science minister Karlis Greiskalns announced that he does not see any reasons why the transfer to secondary education in the Latvian language as the only instruction language should be postponed. Telegraf writes the minister boasted that his ministry has not made any serious mistakes for 19 months, including bilingual education. The minister says that education issue has been politicised.

Panorama Latvii

publishes the article about the work, functions, plans and role of the Association of the Russians in Latvia. publishes the article about the work, functions, plans and role of the Association of the Russians in Latvia.

Vecernaya Riga

publishes the article The New Political Perspectives of the OSCE, where the newspaper refers to the recent summit of the OSCE foreign affairs ministers in Bucharest, in particular, Russias efforts to introduce changes in the regulations of the OSCE. publishes the article “The New Political Perspectives of the OSCE”, where the newspaper refers to the recent summit of the OSCE foreign affairs ministers in Bucharest, in particular, Russia’s efforts to introduce changes in the regulations of the OSCE.

Press Report

Press Report

Latvian parliament speaker Janis Straume at the talks with US ambassador to Latvia on Tuesday thanked the US president and administration on their consistent and strong position as regards NATO enlargement. The US is convinced about the need to close the OSCE mission in Latvia as all the organisation’s guidelines have been fulfilled, said Carlson. Nevertheless, it is important for Latvian to achieve improvements in social and political areas, in particular in history studies, public integration and prevention of corruption. The US ambassador again expressed his approval of the Latvian president's suggestion to amend the election law and the discussion opened over the need to lift the top-level Latvian language proficiency requirement to candidates in general elections.

Latvian parliament speaker Janis Straume at the talks with US ambassador to Latvia on Tuesday thanked the US president and administration on their consistent and strong position as regards NATO enlargement. The US is convinced about the need to close the OSCE mission in Latvia as all the organisations guidelines have been fulfilled, said Carlson. Nevertheless, it is important for Latvian to achieve improvements in social and political areas, in particular in history studies, public integration and prevention of corruption. The US ambassador again expressed his approval of the Latvian president's suggestion to amend the election law and the discussion opened over the need to lift the top-level Latvian language proficiency requirement to candidates in general elections. BNS, Latvijas Vestnesis

Latvia's Way party faction in opposition on the Riga City Council demands that Riga mayor should explain the procedure for signing co-operation agreement with Moscow. Latvia's Way faction has sent an inquiry to Riga mayor Gundars Bojars, asking him to explain the relevant procedure. Under the mayor's orders concerning record-keeping, the agreement has to be accompanied by the city council resolution forming the basis for signing it but the council never got to examine the Riga-Moscow co-operation agreement.

Latvia's Way party faction in opposition on the Riga City Council demands that Riga mayor should explain the procedure for signing co-operation agreement with Moscow. Latvia's Way faction has sent an inquiry to Riga mayor Gundars Bojars, asking him to explain the relevant procedure. Under the mayor's orders concerning record-keeping, the agreement has to be accompanied by the city council resolution forming the basis for signing it but the council never got to examine the Riga-Moscow co-operation agreement. BNS

The head of European Commission delegation to Latvia, Gunter Weiss, said co-operation with Latvian authorities had been constructive and beneficial for both parties Weiss made this statement during his farewell visit to Latvian parliament speaker Janis Straume on Tuesday, reported the Latvian parliament press service.

The head of European Commission delegation to Latvia, Gunter Weiss, said co-operation with Latvian authorities had been constructive and beneficial for both parties Weiss made this statement during his farewell visit to Latvian parliament speaker Janis Straume on Tuesday, reported the Latvian parliament press service. BNS

Riga mayor Gundars Bojars will Dec. 12 head for Moscow where he and Moscow mayor Yury Luzhkov on Dec. 14 are expected to sign agreement between the two cities on co-operation in trade, economy, science and culture.

Riga mayor Gundars Bojars will Dec. 12 head for Moscow where he and Moscow mayor Yury Luzhkov on Dec. 14 are expected to sign agreement between the two cities on co-operation in trade, economy, science and culture. Diena, Chas, Vesti Segodnya

If the Baltic countries enter NATO, "a reaction could follow" from Russia, which, however, will "by no means will be forceful," Russian Duma Chairman Gennady Seleznev commented during his visit to Beijing. Seleznev stressed that this view is shared by President Vladimir Putin. Both officials see no need for NATO to expand eastward any further.

If the Baltic countries enter NATO, "a reaction could follow" from Russia, which, however, will "by no means will be forceful," Russian Duma Chairman Gennady Seleznev commented during his visit to Beijing. Seleznev stressed that this view is shared by President Vladimir Putin. Both officials see no need for NATO to expand eastward any further. LETA, Chas

43.2 percent of Latvia’s people positive about the European Union. A poll by SKDS, European Integration Bureau and the State Chancellery, carried out this past November, shows that 43.2 percent would vote for Latvia’s accession to the EU if the referendum was held in November (up from 42.7 percent in August), 31.2 percent would vote against (up from 30.7 percent in August), 25.6 percent could not say (26.6 percent in August). Most people said that they would vote for joining the EU, as entering the EU would ensure Latvia's economic growth, EU membership will make Latvia a part of Europe, and there will be more opportunities to obtain a good education. Those who said that they would vote against Latvia's entry into the EU said that it threatens Latvia's national economy, Latvia will lose its independence, and also because EU presses its interests on its member countries. Whereas a poll of businessmen carried out by Dienas Bizness shows that almost one half of 240 questioned businessmen would vote for Latvia’s entry into the EU. DB concludes that the number of EU supporters among businessmen is the largest than among Latvia’s residents.

43.2 percent of Latvias people positive about the European Union. A poll by SKDS, European Integration Bureau and the State Chancellery, carried out this past November, shows that 43.2 percent would vote for Latvias accession to the EU if the referendum was held in November (up from 42.7 percent in August), 31.2 percent would vote against (up from 30.7 percent in August), 25.6 percent could not say (26.6 percent in August). Most people said that they would vote for joining the EU, as entering the EU would ensure Latvia's economic growth, EU membership will make Latvia a part of Europe, and there will be more opportunities to obtain a good education. Those who said that they would vote against Latvia's entry into the EU said that it threatens Latvia's national economy, Latvia will lose its independence, and also because EU presses its interests on its member countries. Whereas a poll of businessmen carried out by Dienas Bizness shows that almost one half of 240 questioned businessmen would vote for Latvias entry into the EU. DB concludes that the number of EU supporters among businessmen is the largest than among Latvias residents. Neatkariga

Politicians differ on President Vaira Vike-Freiberga’s support for general presidential elections. Romualds Razuks, the head of the Latvian delegation to the Baltic Assembly, believes that a serious debate is required, however, such major changes are inadvisable ahead of Latvia’s entry into the EU and NATO. Aivars Borovkovs, the head of the Latvian Lawyers’ Union, believes that the president’s statement is linked with her wish to be elected for a second term of office. NRA says that this would also mean significant amendments to the Constitution, working out such amendments could take several years.

Politicians differ on President Vaira Vike-Freibergas support for general presidential elections. Romualds Razuks, the head of the Latvian delegation to the Baltic Assembly, believes that a serious debate is required, however, such major changes are inadvisable ahead of Latvias entry into the EU and NATO. Aivars Borovkovs, the head of the Latvian Lawyers Union, believes that the presidents statement is linked with her wish to be elected for a second term of office. NRA says that this would also mean significant amendments to the Constitution, working out such amendments could take several years. Neatkariga

On November 28 took place the 2nd Latvian Society European Affairs forum. One of the three discussion topics was the situation of national minorities in Latvia. The discussion was based on the recently published report Protection of minorities by B.Kolchanov from the research institute Baltic Insight. All participants were positive about the fact of preparong this report and acknowledged that the collected information and conclusions could be seen as a professional alternative opinion but there was also criticism on the methodology, conclusions and recommendations. MFA representative J.Mazeiks evaluated this research as a good and professional work but he did not agree with the used methodology, i.e. that the subjects of comparison were different ethnic groups – Russian-speakers in Latvia and Estonia, but in the rest of the candidate states – Romany people.

Latvijas Vestnesis

The main topics of the discussion organised by EU Information Centre Integration – ideals and delusions what is integration, how we understand it and how to realise it. This topic has been widely discussed lately in Latvia, but very often it is understood as integration of non-Latvians into Latvian society and therefore these people have to make the major effort. Dr. A.Kleckins pointed out that integration should go from both directions an said that the existing ethnic disintegration is just a small part of this problem, the major one is the gap between the state power and nation.

Latvijas Vestnesis

Panorama Latvii

published comments on the interview MP from FF/LNNK faction J.Dobelis gave to the Latvian Radio. Mr.Dobelis attacked his colleague from For Human Rights in United Latvia faction B.Cilevich saying that he and other deputies like him work in the interests of certain groups to decrease the political power of the Latvian nation.

In the editorial of the newspaper Chas L.Fedoseyev writes about the future of the OSCE Mission to Latvia and the contradictory opinions on this issue by Latvian and Russian authorities. He asks - what would change in Latvia if the Mission were closed? From the point of view of immediate profit for Latvian people – nothing. There is no danger of immediate outbreak of a civil war. But the presence or closure of the Mission is just a signal shoving international attitude towards Latvia, especially before EU and NATO expansion.

E.Chuyanova writes about the Estonian national minority policy from the point of view of Russian-speakers. These people consider that all the latest achievements by Estonian authorities concerning the language issues are oriented for export. Is was clearly stated by the Estonian Minister of Foreign Affairs who, speaking about the amendments to the election laws said, We need this law to close the OSCE Mission and increase the prestige of our country in the world. Chas

Press Report

Press Report

I.Brands-Kehris and N.Muiznieks from Latvian Human Rights and Ethnic Research Centre write that time has come to close the OSCE Mission to Latvia but it should be done by simultaneously proving Latvia’s capability to solve the remaining problems independently and adjust gradually to international human rights standards. Only thus we can reach our goal – become a democratic and full-fledged EU and NATO member state.

I.Brands-Kehris and N.Muiznieks from Latvian Human Rights and Ethnic Research Centre write that time has come to close the OSCE Mission to Latvia but it should be done by simultaneously proving Latvias capability to solve the remaining problems independently and adjust gradually to international human rights standards. Only thus we can reach our goal – become a democratic and full-fledged EU and NATO member state. Diena

Diena’s commentary by Aivars Ozolins looks into President Vaira Vike-Freiberga’s statement that restrictions in election rights according to the state language are undemocratic and need to be revoked, stressing that it is unlikely that PCTVL will vote to lift the restrictions. Therefore FHRUL "masters in Moscow" will no longer be able to hamper Latvia’s move to NATO.

Dienas commentary by Aivars Ozolins looks into President Vaira Vike-Freibergas statement that restrictions in election rights according to the state language are undemocratic and need to be revoked, stressing that it is unlikely that PCTVL will vote to lift the restrictions. Therefore FHRUL "masters in Moscow" will no longer be able to hamper Latvias move to NATO. Diena

For Fatherland and Freedom/LNNK Chairman Maris Grinblats tells Lauku Avize about the matters of national importance that will be reviewed during FF/LNNK’s congress Saturday

For Fatherland and Freedom/LNNK Chairman Maris Grinblats tells Lauku Avize about the matters of national importance that will be reviewed during FF/LNNKs congress Saturday. Grinblats compares his party with a play where there are very many characters and each has certain meaning. The party is not a theatre company with one actor. "We have a few members that at times make radical statements, but as soon the Latvian language, citizenship or Constitution are concerned, we are strict enough". Lauku Avize

President Vaira Vike-Freiberga went on a working visit to Geneva to discuss Latvia’s activities in different international organisations - UN, WTO, IOC and IMO.

President Vaira Vike-Freiberga went on a working visit to Geneva to discuss Latvias activities in different international organisations - UN, WTO, IOC and IMO. Neatkariga, Latvijas Vestnesis

I.Murniece from

I.Murniece from Lauku Avize, writing about the language experts meeting at the Presidents Office, states that most of the present experts were just high state officials and no well-known professors. When she asked who had chosen the participants and why the Head of the State Language Centre Dz.Hirsa had not been invited, the answer was – Presidents Office. Addressing the experts, the President said that Latvia was the only country in Europe that had such a superfluous limitation in its election law, pointing out that the Estonian parliament accepted abolishing this norm. Then President charged the experts with two tasks: 1. to manage that there would be no limitations to the right of deputies to carry out office records in the Latvian language; 2. to manage let the election law (which according to the President is undemocratic and contradictory to the Constitution) would become democratic - according international understanding. The meeting took place behind closed door, where experts expressed their opinions on the problem and agreed for the next meeting on December 17.

I.Kuzmina writes that after the statement of President Vaira Vike-Freiberga that language requirement norm was undemocratic, contradictory to the Satversme and limiting the democratic rights of citizens. The fact is that the Saeima Roll of Procedures establishes that the only language to be used at the Saeima is the Latvian language. But this norm may be abolished, and the Satversme is a “stronger” document that the Roll of Procedures. The journalist asked some MPs - lawyers whether this first step would not be followed by another one. The Head of the Saeima State Administration and Local Government Commission J.Lagzdins answered that, seeing what was going on in Estonia, they had to worry whether President’s proposal was just the first step let the state language would lose its positions. Estonians abolished the language proficiency norm, and Russia is setting forth new, even wider demands. Mr.Lagzdins thinks that Latvians must not yield to any pressure – neither from West or East. Chairman of the Saeima juridical Commission L.Mucins agreed to the statement that after abolishing new demand could follow. All this fuss is artificial and inspired by Russia. Mr.Mucins reminded that when opening the OSCE Mission to Latvia there was no demand to abolish this norm. Saeima Secretary S.Dreimane considers that even amending the election law should be done when the society was ready for that, and she did not see any public support for this idea. Ms.Dreimane also reminded the fact of opening the OSCE Mission here and said that non-Latvians should understand that one more language would make them richer and there were no problems to master the Latvian language here.

I.Kuzmina writes that after the statement of President Vaira Vike-Freiberga that language requirement norm was undemocratic, contradictory to the Satversme and limiting the democratic rights of citizens. The fact is that the Saeima Roll of Procedures establishes that the only language to be used at the Saeima is the Latvian language. But this norm may be abolished, and the Satversme is a stronger document that the Roll of Procedures. The journalist asked some MPs - lawyers whether this first step would not be followed by another one. The Head of the Saeima State Administration and Local Government Commission J.Lagzdins answered that, seeing what was going on in Estonia, they had to worry whether Presidents proposal was just the first step let the state language would lose its positions. Estonians abolished the language proficiency norm, and Russia is setting forth new, even wider demands. Mr.Lagzdins thinks that Latvians must not yield to any pressure – neither from West or East. Chairman of the Saeima juridical Commission L.Mucins agreed to the statement that after abolishing new demand could follow. All this fuss is artificial and inspired by Russia. Mr.Mucins reminded that when opening the OSCE Mission to Latvia there was no demand to abolish this norm. Saeima Secretary S.Dreimane considers that even amending the election law should be done when the society was ready for that, and she did not see any public support for this idea. Ms.Dreimane also reminded the fact of opening the OSCE Mission here and said that non-Latvians should understand that one more language would make them richer and there were no problems to master the Latvian language here. Lauku Avize

At the last week plenary sitting the Saeima supported the proposal of the faction FF/LNNK to amend the Law on Local Governments by stipulating that the working language of local governments had to be the state language. The amendments stipulate as well that the only office record language is the Latvian language. The Saeima rejected another FF/LNNK proposal to establish criminal liability for persons, who call to neglect Latvian legislation, as well as persons, who act in public organisations aimed at or their activities are aimed at overthrowing the state authority of the Republic of Latvia and abolishing national independence or destroying of territorial integrity. J.Dobelis promised that the faction would still put forward their proposal for the third reading, saying that this proposal was not aimed at those, who considered Latvia’s legislation imperfect but against those, who organise campaigns in mass media and during different events call to neglect laws.

At the last week plenary sitting the Saeima supported the proposal of the faction FF/LNNK to amend the Law on Local Governments by stipulating that the working language of local governments had to be the state language. The amendments stipulate as well that the only office record language is the Latvian language. The Saeima rejected another FF/LNNK proposal to establish criminal liability for persons, who call to neglect Latvian legislation, as well as persons, who act in public organisations aimed at or their activities are aimed at overthrowing the state authority of the Republic of Latvia and abolishing national independence or destroying of territorial integrity. J.Dobelis promised that the faction would still put forward their proposal for the third reading, saying that this proposal was not aimed at those, who considered Latvias legislation imperfect but against those, who organise campaigns in mass media and during different events call to neglect laws. Lauku Avize

In an interview to the newspaper

In an interview to the newspaper Lauku Avize the Chairman of FF/LNNK M.Grinblats spoke also about the language issues. He confirmed that the party remained in firm position on all essential national issues, e.g. concerning the proposal of the President on amending the election law. Mr.Grinblats thinks that the principles stipulated both in the Saeima and local government election laws have reasonable grounds, and it is not discrimination of non-Latvians. What concerns the possible actions, if the election law were amended, (possible amending of the Saeima Roll of Procedures) Mr.Grinblats said that nobody spoke about it yet. So if deputy, who does not speak any Latvian were elected to the Saeima, he could complain to the European Human Rights Court for not letting him work in the language he wants to. Then may follow a demand to introduce in local governments and even in the Saeima two or even three working languages. But the Satversme stipulates that the Latvian language is the only official state language, and this article may be amended only in a referendum. So the faction will not support the President. Mr.Grinblats spoke also about the state language inspectors and education reform.

Prime Minister A.Berzins participated in two events linked with society integration processes. The first was opening of the Naturalisation Board Information Centre where he thanked all persons, who participated in establishing of this office, and Latvia’s foreign partners for their input in the process of society integration. At the opening ceremony of the Society Integration Foundation premises the Prime Minister spoke about the important contributions of EU, UNDP, OSCE and other foreign donors in furthering the society integration processes and pointed out the importance of the latest OSCE Mission to Latvia projects, especially the “Public awareness project”.

Prime Minister A.Berzins participated in two events linked with society integration processes. The first was opening of the Naturalisation Board Information Centre where he thanked all persons, who participated in establishing of this office, and Latvias foreign partners for their input in the process of society integration. At the opening ceremony of the Society Integration Foundation premises the Prime Minister spoke about the important contributions of EU, UNDP, OSCE and other foreign donors in furthering the society integration processes and pointed out the importance of the latest OSCE Mission to Latvia projects, especially the Public awareness project. Latvijas Vestnesis

Writing about the opening ceremony of the Naturalisation Board Information Centre

Writing about the opening ceremony of the Naturalisation Board Information Centre Panorama Latvii cites the words of the Ambassador of the Delegation of CoE to Latvia G.Weiss, Everybody who receives Latvian citizenship in a few years will become a citizen of EU.

Panorama Latvii

informs that the Russian National Council adopted in the first reading the Presidential version of the citizenship law. The law envisages abolishing a possibility for all former USSR citizens to become citizens of Russia automatically. But it does not exclude a double citizenship. The new law would also lead to reconsideration of the law on compatriots. In the Kremlin they decided to have a new interpretation of this term. Now a compatriot – first of all is a citizen of Russia: their number in the neighbouring countries of Russia is increasing and most important constitutional task of the Russian government is to take care of this category of its citizens. informs that the Russian National Council adopted in the first reading the “Presidential” version of the citizenship law. The law envisages abolishing a possibility for all former USSR citizens to become citizens of Russia automatically. But it does not exclude a double citizenship. The new law would also lead to reconsideration of the law on compatriots. In the Kremlin they decided to have a new interpretation of this term. Now a compatriot – first of all is a citizen of Russia: their number in the neighbouring countries of Russia is increasing and most important constitutional task of the Russian government is to take care of this category of its citizens. Informing about the new draft law on financing political parties Russian-speaking newspapers speak ironically that authorities estimate the price for one vote – 60 santims. This financing will come from the national budget and only for those parties that will overcome 3% threshold at the Saeima election.

Informing about the new draft law on financing political parties Russian-speaking newspapers speak ironically that authorities estimate the price for one vote – 60 santims. This financing will come from the national budget and only for those parties that will overcome 3% threshold at the Saeima election. Vesti Segodnya, Vechernyaya Riga

Last week at the Ukrainian Secondary School took place a regular seminar where teachers of Russian-speaking schools discussed the problems of bilingual education within the framework of the program of the Riga City Council “Bilingual education and possibilities for Russian schools”. The organiser of this action A.Mitrevica told the journalist that the meaning of this action is let different schools present their bilingual experiences, teachers visit open lessons. As a result teachers come to conclusions how to improve their work.

Last week at the Ukrainian Secondary School took place a regular seminar where teachers of Russian-speaking schools discussed the problems of bilingual education within the framework of the program of the Riga City Council Bilingual education and possibilities for Russian schools. The organiser of this action A.Mitrevica told the journalist that the meaning of this action is let different schools present their bilingual experiences, teachers visit open lessons. As a result teachers come to conclusions how to improve their work. Vechernyaya Riga

Author o the above mentioned article E.Slyusareva published another article just under the previous one about the opinions behind the surface, stating that all respondents during out of record conversations acknowledged that this reform would lead to a mass scale assimilation.

Author o the above mentioned article E.Slyusareva published another article just under the previous one about the opinions behind the surface, stating that all respondents during out of record conversations acknowledged that this reform would lead to a mass scale assimilation. Vechernyaya Riga

MP B.Cilevich publishes his seeing the latest activities on Russian-speaking youth in Latvia and their attitude towards integration campaign. Latvian officials regard these young people as an object to implement their progressive attentions on – an object that with the help of some manipulations in necessary to adjust to functioning in the society of Latvia. And this attitude creates a rather reserved attitude in many people but youngsters are more radical in their actions. As examples of it B.Cilevich names the activities of the ultra national Russian National Unity Movement, the incident with Prince Charles, the attack with eggs on Latvian Minister of Agriculture in Russia, etc. State authorities try to prove the international community that everything is OK in Latvia, but their attitude is shown by treating the demand to preserve education in national minority languages. Now when all the activities of opposition activists proved the world the real situation in Latvia and it is not possible to deny the evident, Latvian top officials want to redirect the guilt for that to the Saeima faction For Human Rights in United Latvia – they have canvassed to speak against the state language and Latvian legislation.

MP B.Cilevich publishes his seeing the latest activities on Russian-speaking youth in Latvia and their attitude towards integration campaign. Latvian officials regard these young people as an object to implement their progressive attentions on – an object that with the help of some manipulations in necessary to adjust to functioning in the society of Latvia. And this attitude creates a rather reserved attitude in many people but youngsters are more radical in their actions. As examples of it B.Cilevich names the activities of the ultra national Russian National Unity Movement, the incident with Prince Charles, the attack with eggs on Latvian Minister of Agriculture in Russia, etc. State authorities try to prove the international community that everything is OK in Latvia, but their attitude is shown by treating the demand to preserve education in national minority languages. Now when all the activities of opposition activists proved the world the real situation in Latvia and it is not possible to deny the evident, Latvian top officials want to redirect the guilt for that to the Saeima faction For Human Rights in United Latvia – they have canvassed to speak against the state language and Latvian legislation. Telegraf

Press Report

The United States NATO Committee hailed the proposal of Latvian president to delete from election law the norm requiring candidates running for elections to have top state language proficiency level, US embassy in Latvia reported. The committee said it regards the initiative of Vaira Vike-Freiberga as a courageous step. "Passage of this important reform by the Latvian parliament will be the last major step in confirming Latvia's impeccable democratic credentials and should lock in an invitation to join NATO at the historic Prague Summit," Committee President Bruce Jackson said in a statement Friday. BNS

Newspaper

Newspaper Rigas Balss asked several Latvian politicians about the latest initiative of the President Vaira Vike-Freiberga concerning the election law, and they answered that if the President submitted such amendments to the election law they would not be supported. Chairman of FF/LNNK faction V.Balodis told the journalist that the President possibly had such an opinion due to the case lost at the Strasbourg court and constant pressure of Russia. Social Democrat MP E.Baldzens said that he would not support such an initiative. If a deputy does not now the Latvian language he will not be able to work. Poet and publicist J.Peters thinks that it is even impossible to measure what is the highest state language proficiency level. If a person works for the state, he has to know the language.

Vesti Segodnya

did the same as did the same as Rigas BalssRigas Balss. Vice-President of PACE V.Paegle answered that for the last two weeks the Head of the OSCE Mission, different foreign experts constantly raised this problem, and international pressure increased, therefore she was not surprised by this initiative of the President. But if the President wanted to abolish this norm she should do it already a year ago. Not the atmosphere, especially at the Saeima before the election is very politicised. It will be difficult for Vaira Vike-Freiberga to get support from the majority deputies. Minister of Foreign Affairs I.Berzins said that the President had acted as a responsible state official understanding real democratic values. These amendments will just improve our democracy. A.Bartashevich from For Human Rights in United Latvia said that their faction just two weeks ago made the same proposal at the plenary sitting of the Saeima. What did prevent the President to support their proposal then? He pointed out that the President had not come forth with concrete draft amendments. She just threw the idea and passed it to experts for long consideration. A.Bartashevich thinks this is a pure tactic move to close the OSCE Mission to Latvia. It is interesting that the President made her move on the arrival day of the OSCE delegation. . Vice-President of PACE V.Paegle answered that for the last two weeks the Head of the OSCE Mission, different foreign experts constantly raised this problem, and international pressure increased, therefore she was not surprised by this initiative of the President. But if the President wanted to abolish this norm she should do it already a year ago. Not the atmosphere, especially at the Saeima before the election is very politicised. It will be difficult for Vaira Vike-Freiberga to get support from the majority deputies. Minister of Foreign Affairs I.Berzins said that the President had acted as a responsible state official understanding real democratic values. These amendments will just improve our democracy. A.Bartashevich from For Human Rights in United Latvia said that their faction just two weeks ago made the same proposal at the plenary sitting of the Saeima. What did prevent the President to support their proposal then? He pointed out that the President had not come forth with concrete draft amendments. She just threw the idea and passed it to experts for long consideration. A.Bartashevich thinks this is a pure tactic move to close the OSCE Mission to Latvia. It is interesting that the President made her move on the arrival day of the OSCE delegation. Newspaper

Newspaper Chas states that two major Latvian newspapers Diena and Neatkariga were positive concerning the proposal of the President to abolish the norm stipulating the highest language proficiency level for deputy candidates.

V.Sorokin in

V.Sorokin in Vechernyaya Riga writes about the proposal of the President stating that before this move she wanted to get support from experts. Therefore she invited the representatives of National Human Rights Office, Centre of Ethnic Studies and Human Rights, Human Rights Institute and State Language Centre to her office. The President reminded experts of the statement of the Head of the Mission P.Semneby that amending this norm was one of the prerequisites for closing the OSCE Mission to Latvia.

The political union For Human Rights in a United Latvia's (PCTVL) rally was held this afternoon in Riga's Kronvalda Park with about 250 mostly elderly people participating. The rally was opened with a speech by Riga City councilman Genadijs Kotovs, who accented that all of Latvia's residents must have equal rights. The demonstrators are concerned that after 2004, ethnic Russian school children will no longer be able to be taught in the Russian language. Other speakers noted that it is not permissible for Russian schools to be closed and emphasised the need to be united in the fight for ethnic Russian rights in Latvia.

The political union For Human Rights in a United Latvia's (PCTVL) rally was held this afternoon in Riga's Kronvalda Park with about 250 mostly elderly people participating. The rally was opened with a speech by Riga City councilman Genadijs Kotovs, who accented that all of Latvia's residents must have equal rights. The demonstrators are concerned that after 2004, ethnic Russian school children will no longer be able to be taught in the Russian language. Other speakers noted that it is not permissible for Russian schools to be closed and emphasised the need to be united in the fight for ethnic Russian rights in Latvia. LETA, Telegraf, Chas, Vesti Segodnya,

Issuing new passports could be delayed by another half-year due to required amendments to the law. The Citizenship and Migration Administration says that it is technically ready to introduce the new passports already at the beginning of 2002. Meanwhile, delays on introduction of machine-readable passports create problems for people at borders, as border guards of other countries regard the current outdated and easy-to-counterfeit passports with distrust, says

Issuing new passports could be delayed by another half-year due to required amendments to the law. The Citizenship and Migration Administration says that it is technically ready to introduce the new passports already at the beginning of 2002. Meanwhile, delays on introduction of machine-readable passports create problems for people at borders, as border guards of other countries regard the current outdated and easy-to-counterfeit passports with distrust, says Diena.

Diena

published a letter of D.Baltruma about the latest government decisions concerning the rights of the state language inspectors. It is just not serious because everybody knows how much you can trust to language certificates. They will not help if we do not respect ourselves and the endless articles of the state language law and exams just irritate non-Latvians. While the Latvian language is not implemented in our everyday life as a self-evident thing in all spheres of public life, it will remain the major pain of the Latvian nation. published a letter of D.Baltruma about the latest government decisions concerning the rights of the state language inspectors. It is just not serious because everybody knows how much you can trust to language certificates. They will not help if we do not respect ourselves and the endless articles of the state language law and exams just irritate non-Latvians. While the Latvian language is not implemented in our everyday life as a self-evident thing in all spheres of public life, it will remain the major pain of the Latvian nation. Today at the government committee will be considered a draft agreement on co-operation between the Latvian and Russian ministries of culture. It envisages establishing an atmosphere of utmost benevolence for exchange and developing co-operation in the field of cinematography, theatre, fine arts etc.

Today at the government committee will be considered a draft agreement on co-operation between the Latvian and Russian ministries of culture. It envisages establishing an atmosphere of utmost benevolence for exchange and developing co-operation in the field of cinematography, theatre, fine arts etc. Chas

Press Report

Press Report

The newspaper

The newspaper Chas writes that on December 20 will be taken a decision on the future of the OSCE Mission to Latvia. The eight years of OSCE presence in Latvia, their recommendations, including the ones of the OSCE High Commissioner Max van der Stoel have been a real splinter for Latvian authorities. Therefore they have made a titanic attempt to close the Mission. Also the President, when suggesting abolishing the language knowledge norm for deputy candidates in the election law. P.Semneby, Head of the OSCE Mission to Latvia commenting this said that it was an important step increasing the chances to close the Mission. Still Chas thinks that it would be better if both the Mission and Mr.Semneby stayed in Latvia a little bit longer.

The newspaper

The newspaper Panorama Latvii, commenting on the Presidents proposal on the language norm, states that if the norm were abolished then the number of well-known people would increase in the candidate lists. Of course, the ruling parties are not so fond of this proposal, but the Head of the OSCE Mission P.Semneby has a different opinion.

New US ambassador to Latvia approves of the Latvian president's initiative to remove from the election law the provision requiring candidates running for general elections to have top-level state language proficiency. Ambassador Brian E.Carlson, who on Friday made an introductory visit to the Latvian premier, also evaluated positively the fact that a discussion had been started on the subject, said an advisor to the Latvian Prime Minister Andris Berzins. The US ambassador and the Latvian premier also talked about further co-operation between the two nations, Prime Minister's foreign advisor Atis Sjanits told

New US ambassador to Latvia approves of the Latvian president's initiative to remove from the election law the provision requiring candidates running for general elections to have top-level state language proficiency. Ambassador Brian E.Carlson, who on Friday made an introductory visit to the Latvian premier, also evaluated positively the fact that a discussion had been started on the subject, said an advisor to the Latvian Prime Minister Andris Berzins. The US ambassador and the Latvian premier also talked about further co-operation between the two nations, Prime Minister's foreign advisor Atis Sjanits told BNS.

Neatkariga adds that the both officials expressed their conviction that Latvia was ready for closing the OSCE Mission at the end of this year because the Mission guidelines had been fulfilled.

Latvian foreign minister Indulis Berzins approves of the Latvian president's initiative to remove from the election law the provision requiring candidates running for general elections to have top level state language proficiency. Answering a question by BNS, Berzins said the suggestion by Latvian President Vaira Vike-Freiberga was a good idea that would increase the standing of the Latvian language in elected state bodies. "The president as a responsible head of state with adequate understanding of democracy and democratic principles has proposed a very good and right idea," said the foreign minister.

Latvian foreign minister Indulis Berzins approves of the Latvian president's initiative to remove from the election law the provision requiring candidates running for general elections to have top level state language proficiency. Answering a question by BNS, Berzins said the suggestion by Latvian President Vaira Vike-Freiberga was a good idea that would increase the standing of the Latvian language in elected state bodies. "The president as a responsible head of state with adequate understanding of democracy and democratic principles has proposed a very good and right idea," said the foreign minister. BNS

MP B.Cilevich once more “spoiled” the image of Latvia during the PACE deputies meeting with the faction For Human Rights in United Latvia. He told the guests about the existing problems with education, citizenship, and language quotas in TV. When asked if he spoke about the problems with language limitation for deputy candidates, B.Cilevich answered that he had told the guests that the abolishing of these limitations would not affect their candidates. For Human Rights in United Latvia had a sufficiently long list of candidates with a very high Latvian language knowledge.

MP B.Cilevich once more spoiled the image of Latvia during the PACE deputies meeting with the faction For Human Rights in United Latvia. He told the guests about the existing problems with education, citizenship, and language quotas in TV. When asked if he spoke about the problems with language limitation for deputy candidates, B.Cilevich answered that he had told the guests that the abolishing of these limitations would not affect their candidates. For Human Rights in United Latvia had a sufficiently long list of candidates with a very high Latvian language knowledge. Panorama Latvii

Journalists from the newspaper

Journalists from the newspaper Diena visited two Russian-speaking schools to find out the attitude of students to the planned transition to the tuition in the state language in year 2004. Neither students in Riga Secondary School No 34 nor Kraslava Varaviksne School had many problems to communicate in Latvian and did not worry much about this transition but they did not want to lose their culture, identity and language. In Kraslava school students wanted to keep the bilingual education model and not to transfer to the Latvian language. But there are still problems with this bilingual model – when learning complicated things in the Latvian language students have difficulties with both - the Latvian language and the subject.

Diena also briefly describes the national minority education situation in Estonia and Lithuania.

Also

Also Chas writes about the bilingual education describing an event organised by Riga Secondary School No 88 when they invited 120 teachers to show their achievements in bilingual education. The guests could visit lessons of different subjects to see how teachers try to make these lessons attractive for students. But precaution of Russian teachers about this method is understandable because if not used properly, the result could be disastrous.

The announced action of the newspaper

The announced action of the newspaper Chas Become a citizen caused a vivid and contradictory discussion on Internet forum of Chas. And it proved the importance of this issue. Chas publishes some of the comments made.

Latvian left-wing parties’ members of the Human Rights alliance may merge, creating a strong party enjoying support of majority of population. This suggestion was made by Latvian Socialist Party (LSP) chairman Alfreds Rubiks at the party congress Saturday, and the National Harmony Party leader Janis Jurkans also did not rule out such possibility. The new party's name could be the Latvian Socialist National Harmony and Equal Rights Party, incorporating the names of all three alliance partners. Apart from the Socialists and the National Harmony Party the Human Rights alliance also includes Equal Rights movement.

Latvian left-wing parties members of the Human Rights alliance may merge, creating a strong party enjoying support of majority of population. This suggestion was made by Latvian Socialist Party (LSP) chairman Alfreds Rubiks at the party congress Saturday, and the National Harmony Party leader Janis Jurkans also did not rule out such possibility. The new party's name could be the Latvian Socialist National Harmony and Equal Rights Party, incorporating the names of all three alliance partners. Apart from the Socialists and the National Harmony Party the Human Rights alliance also includes Equal Rights movement. BNS, Neatkariga (10.11), Telegraf, Vesti Segodnya

Latvian Socialist Party (LSP) chairman in his report to the party congress Saturday stated that only better relations with Russia could get the Latvian economy out of the present crisis. Socialist leader Alfred Rubiks said NATO was an aggressive military-political organisation and his party was ready to initiate a referendum to find out the public opinion about Latvia's plans to join the alliance. BNS

Latvian Socialist Party (LSP) chairman in his report to the party congress Saturday stated that only better relations with Russia could get the Latvian economy out of the present crisis. Socialist leader Alfred Rubiks said NATO was an aggressive military-political organisation and his party was ready to initiate a referendum to find out the public opinion about Latvia's plans to join the alliance. BNS

Latvia's publishing company, notorious with holding several scandalous contests, Friday sent an open letter to Latvian National Human Rights Office director reproaching him over the intention of Latvian president to amend the election law by deleting from it the state language proficiency requirement. Vieda in the letter to Olafs Bruvers also pointed at concrete gross violation of the state language law admitted by Baltcom TV cable television provider. Vieda director Aivars Garda described in the letter one specific incident when he, after unsuccessful conversation with one Russian speaker technician employed by Baltcom TV, was told that order by Vieda can be done only after Dec. 10 because there are no technicians employed at the company speaking in Latvian. BNS

Latvia's publishing company, notorious with holding several scandalous contests, Friday sent an open letter to Latvian National Human Rights Office director reproaching him over the intention of Latvian president to amend the election law by deleting from it the state language proficiency requirement. Vieda in the letter to Olafs Bruvers also pointed at concrete gross violation of the state language law admitted by Baltcom TV cable television provider. Vieda director Aivars Garda described in the letter one specific incident when he, after unsuccessful conversation with one Russian speaker technician employed by Baltcom TV, was told that order by Vieda can be done only after Dec. 10 because there are no technicians employed at the company speaking in Latvian. BNS

S.Tocs from

S.Tocs from Neatkariga writes that the President is right when suggesting abolishing the highest language knowledge level for the Saeima and local government deputy candidates. There is no such norm in any European country; also Estonia abolished it. The President stated that if necessary she was ready to come forth with the legislative initiative to abolish this discriminative norm. It is a brave step and politically – a responsible decision. Most likely there will be some yells about this and they will be also about Vaira Vike-Freiberga personally. S.Tocs states that abolishing these limitations for deputy candidates is not so important from the practical point of view but it is important how Latvia is perceived in Europe and the world.

On Friday were opened the new premises of the Naturalisation Board Information Centre. Centre is aimed at raising the level of public awareness and knowledge on integration issues and further public participation in social and political processes.

On Friday were opened the new premises of the Naturalisation Board Information Centre. Centre is aimed at raising the level of public awareness and knowledge on integration issues and further public participation in social and political processes. Neatkariga

The newspaper

The newspaper Chas published a letter of V.Minayeva where Ms. Minayeva wrote about the problems with the Russian school in Latvia. The author wonders - a Russian school but everything is in Latvian, Russian teachers but a Latvian director, is it a necessity or just a nonsense.