Press Report

Press Report

The President proposes lifting language requirements on candidates for Saeima and municipal deputies. President Vaira Vike-Freiberga is ready to submit to the Saeima amendments to the law on elections so that a supposedly discriminatory point, which requires that candidates for Saeima and municipal deputies be proficient in the state language, is stricken. The president could take such a step if experts she is consulting with say that this law does not comply with international standards or the Constitution. The next meeting of the President and experts is scheduled on 17 December.

The President proposes lifting language requirements on candidates for Saeima and municipal deputies. President Vaira Vike-Freiberga is ready to submit to the Saeima amendments to the law on elections so that a supposedly discriminatory point, which requires that candidates for Saeima and municipal deputies be proficient in the state language, is stricken. The president could take such a step if experts she is consulting with say that this law does not comply with international standards or the Constitution. The next meeting of the President and experts is scheduled on 17 December. Diena and Chas ask the opinion of the leading politicians about Presidents statement. The Prime Minister A.Berzins supports Presidents initiative. Latvias Way faction chairperson K.Libane admits that there is a difference whether the proposal comes from FHRUL or from the President, however, the statement is a little bit unexpected and we are not ready for it. Peoples Party faction chairperson V.Muizniece even voiced a hope that the President would not put forward such initiative to the Saeima. Social Democrat faction chairperson E.Baldzens is also not ready to support the abolishment of language requirements from Election Laws. FF/LNNK faction chairperson Maris Grinblats emphasises that the Article which provides the Latvian language the status of the state language is among those articles that can be amended only by popular vote. FHRUL member B.Cilevics says that, of course, his party is satisfied with Presidents statement. Peoples Party leader A.Skele says that he is categorically against abolishment of language requirements for election candidates. Neatkariga, Vesti Segodnja, Panorama Latvii, Telegraf, Latvijas Vestnesis

The suggestion by Latvian President Vaira Vike-Freiberga to remove from the election law the provision requiring state language proficiency from candidates may increase Latvia's chances to see the OSCE mission wind up its work in the Baltic state. OSCE Mission to Latvia head Peter Semneby told BNS that President's proposal was a very important step proving Latvia was ready to tackle this issue. Although the mission focused on naturalisation and citizenship issues, Semneby said that it had also turned its attention to the state language proficiency requirement for candidates in parliament elections.

The suggestion by Latvian President Vaira Vike-Freiberga to remove from the election law the provision requiring state language proficiency from candidates may increase Latvia's chances to see the OSCE mission wind up its work in the Baltic state. OSCE Mission to Latvia head Peter Semneby told BNS that President's proposal was a very important step proving Latvia was ready to tackle this issue. Although the mission focused on naturalisation and citizenship issues, Semneby said that it had also turned its attention to the state language proficiency requirement for candidates in parliament elections.

The mission head said it is important for Latvia to obtain from the OSCE positive opinion in the matter adding it could be possible to close the mission before the requirement is lifted, however, he said "Latvia should have a clear roadmap" on the issue.

The mission head said it is important for Latvia to obtain from the OSCE positive opinion in the matter adding it could be possible to close the mission before the requirement is lifted, however, he said "Latvia should have a clear roadmap" on the issue.

On Dec. 20 Semneby will present to the OSCE Permanent Council in Vienna his report on Latvia where "i will give very positive evaluation on naturalisation and citizenship," he said. The council will decide on further fate of the OSCE mission in Latvia.

On Dec. 20 Semneby will present to the OSCE Permanent Council in Vienna his report on Latvia where "i will give very positive evaluation on naturalisation and citizenship," he said. The council will decide on further fate of the OSCE mission in Latvia.

What matters is that Latvia had started dealing with this problem, and President's statement should be regarded as the beginning, said Semneby.

What matters is that Latvia had started dealing with this problem, and President's statement should be regarded as the beginning, said Semneby.

The OSCE Parliamentary Assembly delegation visiting Latvia on Wednesday and Thursday is also aware of the Latvian president's suggestion, he said but would not comment on the delegation's response to it.

The OSCE Parliamentary Assembly delegation visiting Latvia on Wednesday and Thursday is also aware of the Latvian president's suggestion, he said but would not comment on the delegation's response to it. BNS

Diena publishes editorial concerning Presidents suggestion to abolish language requirement from the Election Laws by Aivars Ozolins. He notes that this could become a major problem for Jurkans and Rubiks – if the Saeima majority supports the president, PCTVL will be no longer able to hinder Latvias shaking off Moscows grasp. It may well be that PCTVL members themselves will vote against the proposal, which they pretended to support earlier.

The OSCE Parliamentary Assembly delegation is visiting Latvia. Thursday Parliamentary Assembly met with Saeima Vice-Speaker Rihards Piks. The parliamentarians were interested in Latvia’s position towards the abolishment of language requirements from the Election Laws. The members of the Parliamentary Assembly also met Latvian Human Rights and Ethnic Studies Centre director Nils Muiznieks, Naturalisation Board Head Eizenija Aldermane and officials from foreign affairs minister.

The OSCE Parliamentary Assembly delegation is visiting Latvia. Thursday Parliamentary Assembly met with Saeima Vice-Speaker Rihards Piks. The parliamentarians were interested in Latvias position towards the abolishment of language requirements from the Election Laws. The members of the Parliamentary Assembly also met Latvian Human Rights and Ethnic Studies Centre director Nils Muiznieks, Naturalisation Board Head Eizenija Aldermane and officials from foreign affairs minister. Neatkariga, Latvijas Vestnesis

Due to residents' petitions concerning Latvianization of their names, submitted to Latvia's courts and European Court of Human Rights, President Vaira Vike-Freiberga will soon request experts to analyse the problem. The president told her advisors and other experts today that spelling in the Latvian language has become a legal problem, it should be settled so that nobody’s rights are restricted. The president believes that Latvianization of persons’ names and surnames can create a number of technical problems that would make identification of these persons more complicated, drawing the example of surname Schneider, which is to be changed into Snaiders in documents. If Latvia wants such Snaiders, and the name is passed to the Interpol, finding such person will be very complicated, said the president. The president plans to launch a debate among political scientists, linguists, lawyers and other specialists in order to evaluate all issues that concern Latvianization of people's names.

Due to residents' petitions concerning Latvianization of their names, submitted to Latvia's courts and European Court of Human Rights, President Vaira Vike-Freiberga will soon request experts to analyse the problem. The president told her advisors and other experts today that spelling in the Latvian language has become a legal problem, it should be settled so that nobodys rights are restricted. The president believes that Latvianization of persons names and surnames can create a number of technical problems that would make identification of these persons more complicated, drawing the example of surname Schneider, which is to be changed into Snaiders in documents. If Latvia wants such Snaiders, and the name is passed to the Interpol, finding such person will be very complicated, said the president. The president plans to launch a debate among political scientists, linguists, lawyers and other specialists in order to evaluate all issues that concern Latvianization of people's names. Latvijas Vestnesis

Vechernaya Riga

informs about the opening of the premises of the Society Integration Foundation and publishes parts of the speeches by Prime Minister A.Berzins, SIF Board chairperson R.Umblija, SIF member S.Bukinholt. informs about the opening of the premises of the Society Integration Foundation and publishes parts of the speeches by Prime Minister A.Berzins, SIF Board chairperson R.Umblija, SIF member S.Bukinholt.

Telegraf

interviews Naturalisation Board Head Eizenija Aldermane about Public Awareness and Citizenship Promotion Campaign. The newspaper thinks that the Campaign actually is just one of the manipulations of the Latvians and is carried out only for their own sake, as the big number of non-citizens could hinder Latvias accession to the EU. interviews Naturalisation Board Head Eizenija Aldermane about Public Awareness and Citizenship Promotion Campaign. The newspaper thinks that the Campaign actually is just one of the manipulations of the Latvians and is carried out only for their own sake, as the big number of non-citizens could hinder Latvia’s accession to the EU.

Press Report

Press Report

Latvian President Vaira Vike-Freiberga believes that the Constitution should be amended so that in future the president of state will be popularly elected. As to the possibility of running for a second presidency term, Vike-Freiberga said she would be pleased to accept the offer. “Of course, I would like to believe that it is because I do my job well and people appreciate it," said Vike-Freiberga. The Latvian president has been continuously rated as the most popular political figure in the country, according to public opinion polls.

Latvian President Vaira Vike-Freiberga believes that the Constitution should be amended so that in future the president of state will be popularly elected. As to the possibility of running for a second presidency term, Vike-Freiberga said she would be pleased to accept the offer. Of course, I would like to believe that it is because I do my job well and people appreciate it," said Vike-Freiberga. The Latvian president has been continuously rated as the most popular political figure in the country, according to public opinion polls. Diena, Vesti Segodnja, Chas, Telegraf

The recently established Society Integration Foundation had opening of its new premises yesterday.

The recently established Society Integration Foundation had opening of its new premises yesterday. Diena gives a very brief note about the opening. Chas and Latvijas Vestnesis provide more detailed information about the Foundation.

Lauku Avize

interviews Society Integration Foundation Council chairperson Ramona Umblija. She talks about the body of the Board: in her opinion national minorities are well represented at the Board. R.Umblija talks about the possible sources of funding and international donors are named as one of the main sources. She also gives her interpretation of the term integration – in her opinion the term is too politicised and it should also be understood as social integration and not only integration of national minorities. interviews Society Integration Foundation Council chairperson Ramona Umblija. She talks about the body of the Board: in her opinion national minorities are well represented at the Board. R.Umblija talks about the possible sources of funding and international donors are named as one of the main sources. She also gives her interpretation of the term “integration” – in her opinion the term is too politicised and it should also be understood as social integration and not only integration of national minorities.

Lauku Avize

interviews Naturalisation Board Head Eizenija Aldermane about the Public Awareness and Citizenship Promotion Campaign (PACPC). interviews Naturalisation Board Head Eizenija Aldermane about the Public Awareness and Citizenship Promotion Campaign (PACPC). Lauku AvizeLauku Avize journalist starts with criticism towards another event concerning integration issues in Latvia the media seminar The Media in Latvia – Integrated or Divided? claiming that one and the same persons with well known views talk about these issues therefore it is waste of time. When talking about PACPC the journalist asks You have to agree that you are under the influence of the OSCE to some extent?, E.Aldermane replies that she is neither under supervision of Mr.Semneby nor influenced by him if it were like this, you would see completely different Campaign. E.Aldermane explains what she understands with the term naturalisation, about non-citizens place in Latvia and influence and role of Russian mass media. journalist starts with criticism towards another event concerning integration issues in Latvia the media seminar “The Media in Latvia – Integrated or Divided?” claiming that “one and the same persons with well known views talk about these issues therefore it is waste of time”. When talking about PACPC the journalist asks “You have to agree that you are under the influence of the OSCE to some extent?”, E.Aldermane replies that she is neither under supervision of Mr.Semneby nor influenced by him “if it were like this, you would see completely different Campaign”. E.Aldermane explains what she understands with the term “naturalisation”, about non-citizens place in Latvia and influence and role of Russian mass media.

Lauku Avize

interviews Finnish ambassador to Latvia Kirsti Eskelinen about foreign policy of Finland, its place in todays Europe, Latvias place in Finlands foreign policy. interviews Finnish ambassador to Latvia Kirsti Eskelinen about foreign policy of Finland, its place in today’s Europe, Latvia’s place in Finland’s foreign policy.

Rigas Balss

writes about the possible closure of the OSCE Mission to Latvia. The politicians of ruling parties voice that further presence of the OSCE Mission to Latvia is the waste of OSCEs money. However, the opposition politicians disagree with that. FHRUL S.Dolgopolovs says that OSCE Mission to Latvia should continue its presence in Latvia, as well as he express his disappointment in the Society Integration Foundation saying it turned out that the Foundation can offer only fostering of culture and nothing else. writes about the possible closure of the OSCE Mission to Latvia. The politicians of ruling parties voice that further presence of the OSCE Mission to Latvia is “the waste of OSCE’s money”. However, the opposition politicians disagree with that. FHRUL S.Dolgopolovs says that OSCE Mission to Latvia should continue its presence in Latvia, as well as he express his disappointment in the Society Integration Foundation saying “it turned out that the Foundation can offer only fostering of culture and nothing else”. Latvian embassy to Sweden in co-operation with EC Delegation to Sweden will organise seminar “Integration of National Minorities in Latvia as Essential Aspect of Latvia’s Integration into the European Union” in Stockholm on 6 December.

Latvian embassy to Sweden in co-operation with EC Delegation to Sweden will organise seminar Integration of National Minorities in Latvia as Essential Aspect of Latvias Integration into the European Union in Stockholm on 6 December. Neatkariga

Vesti Segodnja

when informing about the visit of Director-General of European Commissions Enlargement Directorate Eneko Landaburu writes that Landaburu is concerned about national minority issues. The number of naturalised people is non-sufficient. Integration should be speeded up. But this is the job of the OSCE. when informing about the visit of Director-General of European Commission’s Enlargement Directorate Eneko Landaburu writes that Landaburu is “concerned about national minority issues. The number of naturalised people is non-sufficient. Integration should be speeded up. But this is the job of the OSCE”. Yesterday Saeima Education, Culture and Science Committee chairperson Dz. Abikis voiced heavy criticism towards left-wingers for agitating the Russians against education in the Latvian language. Evija Papule, Head of General Education Integration Department of the Ministry of Education and Science reported to the Saeima about the development of the transfer to bilingual education.

Yesterday Saeima Education, Culture and Science Committee chairperson Dz. Abikis voiced heavy criticism towards left-wingers for agitating the Russians against education in the Latvian language. Evija Papule, Head of General Education Integration Department of the Ministry of Education and Science reported to the Saeima about the development of the transfer to bilingual education. Vesti Segodnja, Chas

Vesti Segodnja

writes about the Society Integration Foundation. The newspaper ironically notes that non-citizens (their issues) provide jobs to the Latvians. The number of civil servants who deal with integration grows every day. And they are paid rather well. In their turn, FHRUL members M.Mitrafanovs and B.Cilevics reminded to the Foundation and Parliament that representatives of national minorities are not invited to take part at Foundations work. writes about the Society Integration Foundation. The newspaper ironically notes that “non-citizens (their issues) provide jobs to the Latvians. The number of civil servants who deal with integration grows every day. And they are paid rather well”. In their turn, FHRUL members M.Mitrafanovs and B.Cilevics reminded to the Foundation and Parliament that representatives of national minorities are not invited to take part at Foundation’s work. Yesterday President V.Vike-Freiberga met with Prime Minister Andris Berzins to discuss the need to protect the Latvian language. The officials announced that they both support the protection of the Latvian language and thinks that it should be the only state language, however, Latvian should be protected in such a way that it does not contradict to international norms and rights.

Yesterday President V.Vike-Freiberga met with Prime Minister Andris Berzins to discuss the need to protect the Latvian language. The officials announced that they both support the protection of the Latvian language and thinks that it should be the only state language, however, Latvian should be protected in such a way that it does not contradict to international norms and rights. Chas, Telegraf

Press Report

Press Report

“Latvia has undeniably done much in implementing the guidelines set by the Organisation for Security and Co-operation in Europe (OSCE), however, it is too hasty to speak about closing the mission in Latvia until a concrete decision is adopted”, LETA was told by the head of the OSCE mission to Latvia Peter Semneby. Semneby said that OSCE meeting will be held December 20 where he is going to report on Latvia, after that a decision will be adopted on whether the mission is to be closed or it must continue work.

Latvia has undeniably done much in implementing the guidelines set by the Organisation for Security and Co-operation in Europe (OSCE), however, it is too hasty to speak about closing the mission in Latvia until a concrete decision is adopted, LETA was told by the head of the OSCE mission to Latvia Peter Semneby. Semneby said that OSCE meeting will be held December 20 where he is going to report on Latvia, after that a decision will be adopted on whether the mission is to be closed or it must continue work. LETA

Diena

publishes the article Doesnt Latvia Want to Be in NATO? by Artis Pabriks, associated Professor at the University of Vidzeme. In the article he views Latvias stance towards language requirements for election candidates and that this stance, in his opinion, shows that Latvia does not want to join NATO. publishes the article “Doesn’t Latvia Want to Be in NATO?” by Artis Pabriks, associated Professor at the University of Vidzeme. In the article he views Latvia’s stance towards language requirements for election candidates and that this stance, in his opinion, shows that Latvia does not want to join NATO. Latvian foreign affairs minister I.Berzins informed that he has met with foreign ministers of numerous countries (Denmark, Norway) and representatives of the government during the OSCE meeting in Bucharest, and all of them have expressed understanding of Latvia's desire to close the mission.

Latvian foreign affairs minister I.Berzins informed that he has met with foreign ministers of numerous countries (Denmark, Norway) and representatives of the government during the OSCE meeting in Bucharest, and all of them have expressed understanding of Latvia's desire to close the mission. Latvijas Vestnesis

Yesterday the new U.S. Ambassador to Latvia Brian Carlson submitted his letter of credentials to President Vaira Vike-Freiberga. After submitting the letter of credentials, Carlson told that his work in Latvia will primarily concern co-operation in fight on international terrorism and promoting Latvia's integration into the European Union and NATO.

Yesterday the new U.S. Ambassador to Latvia Brian Carlson submitted his letter of credentials to President Vaira Vike-Freiberga. After submitting the letter of credentials, Carlson told that his work in Latvia will primarily concern co-operation in fight on international terrorism and promoting Latvia's integration into the European Union and NATO. Diena, Vesti Segodnja

The USA ambassador also met with Minister of Foreign Affairs I.Berzins. In the course of the meeting society integration issues were discussed and it was emphasised that the guidelines of the OSCE Mission are fulfilled and it should be closed.

The USA ambassador also met with Minister of Foreign Affairs I.Berzins. In the course of the meeting society integration issues were discussed and it was emphasised that the guidelines of the OSCE Mission are fulfilled and it should be closed. Latvijas Vestnesis

Latvia’s Way was allegedly blackmailed before the vote on next year’s budget. The leaders of Latvia’s Way were told by the People’s Party that in case LW does not back PP in the votes on granting state guarantees and allotting money for buying Saeima limousines, the premier could lose his chair.

Latvias Way was allegedly blackmailed before the vote on next years budget. The leaders of Latvias Way were told by the Peoples Party that in case LW does not back PP in the votes on granting state guarantees and allotting money for buying Saeima limousines, the premier could lose his chair. Neatkariga

Russian State Duma MP Boris Pastukhov, the head of the committee for the CIS and contacts with compatriots, said Tuesday at a news conference in Moscow that Russian-speaker rights are being violated in the fields of employment, citizenship and others. According to Pastukhov, in Latvia only 8,000 persons of a total of half a million non-citizens in this Baltic state "were able to naturalise" in nine months of this year but in neighbouring Estonia citizenship was granted to 3,500 out of 220,00 non-citizens seeking naturalisation

Russian State Duma MP Boris Pastukhov, the head of the committee for the CIS and contacts with compatriots, said Tuesday at a news conference in Moscow that Russian-speaker rights are being violated in the fields of employment, citizenship and others. According to Pastukhov, in Latvia only 8,000 persons of a total of half a million non-citizens in this Baltic state "were able to naturalise" in nine months of this year but in neighbouring Estonia citizenship was granted to 3,500 out of 220,00 non-citizens seeking naturalisation. Vesti Segodnja

Tomorrow the President is convening the working session for the experts in field of human rights and relevant international legislation. The main discussion subject will be the situation in the Latvian language legislation and rights of national minorities in the context of international agreements binding to Latvia. According to unofficial sources of

Tomorrow the President is convening the working session for the experts in field of human rights and relevant international legislation. The main discussion subject will be the situation in the Latvian language legislation and rights of national minorities in the context of international agreements binding to Latvia. According to unofficial sources of Vesti Segodnja the President decided to convene the meeting in order to learn whether she should be the one who proposes to amend the Laws on Elections.

Panorama Latvii

asks couple questions to Nils Muiznieks, Latvian Human Rights and Ethnic Studies Centre director, regarding the meeting. He thinks that there is a hope for positive changes in Latvias position towards language requirements provided for by the Laws on Election. The newspaper also writes that neither Latvian Human Rights Committee nor the ambassador of the OSCE was among the invited persons. Peter Semneby, OSCE Mission to Latvia ambassador, told that Latvias problems should be solved first of all by Latvian citizens themselves. I cannot judge what will be the contribution of this meeting or comment the possible solutions. Lets wait. asks couple questions to Nils Muiznieks, Latvian Human Rights and Ethnic Studies Centre director, regarding the meeting. He thinks that there is a hope for positive changes in Latvia’s position towards language requirements provided for by the Laws on Election. The newspaper also writes that neither Latvian Human Rights Committee nor the ambassador of the OSCE was among the invited persons. Peter Semneby, OSCE Mission to Latvia ambassador, told that “Latvia’s problems should be solved first of all by Latvian citizens themselves. I cannot judge what will be the contribution of this meeting or comment the possible solutions. Let’s wait”.

Vesti Segodnja

writes that Latvian foreign affairs minister I.Berzins praised the OSCE during his visit to Bucharest, however, the minister actively lobbied for the closure of the OSCE Mission to Latvia in political corridors. The newspaper looks into the mandate of the OSCE and considers that none of the tasks included in the mandate could threaten the image of Latvia. It writes, it is obvious that the authorities are cunning, in fact, the government does not have any particular interest in the issues concerning naturalisation… And their statement that OSCE Mission is an obstacle to Latvias membership to the EU and NATO – it is just one more myth produced by national domestic policy. writes that Latvian foreign affairs minister I.Berzins praised the OSCE during his visit to Bucharest, however, the minister actively lobbied for the closure of the OSCE Mission to Latvia in political corridors. The newspaper looks into the mandate of the OSCE and considers that none of the tasks included in the mandate could threaten the image of Latvia. It writes, “it is obvious that the authorities are cunning, in fact, the government does not have any particular interest in the issues concerning naturalisation… And their statement that OSCE Mission is an obstacle to Latvia’s membership to the EU and NATO – it is just one more myth produced by national domestic policy”. FF/LLNK has submitted to the Saeima proposal to amend the Law on Municipalities and introduce the amendments, which would provide for stricter language requirements regarding the working language at municipalities. “Our proposal is that it should be clearly stated that at municipalities all sittings, including the sittings of committees, commissions, press conferences and etc. should be exclusively in the state language”, says FF/LNNK member P.Tabuns. In his turn FHRUL MP B.Cilevics says that “these proposals are kind of small compensation to FF/LNNK for the amendments to the Statutes of the State Language Centre adopted by the Government”. The newspaper concludes, “In fact, this is the defeat of FF/LNNK. However, we should not become too happy. If the OSCE Mission is closed, it would give the green light to some radicals and the situation in the field of human rights get worse”.

FF/LLNK has submitted to the Saeima proposal to amend the Law on Municipalities and introduce the amendments, which would provide for stricter language requirements regarding the working language at municipalities. Our proposal is that it should be clearly stated that at municipalities all sittings, including the sittings of committees, commissions, press conferences and etc. should be exclusively in the state language, says FF/LNNK member P.Tabuns. In his turn FHRUL MP B.Cilevics says that these proposals are kind of small compensation to FF/LNNK for the amendments to the Statutes of the State Language Centre adopted by the Government. The newspaper concludes, In fact, this is the defeat of FF/LNNK. However, we should not become too happy. If the OSCE Mission is closed, it would give the green light to some radicals and the situation in the field of human rights get worse. Vesti Segodnja, Panorama Latvii

Chas publishes an editorial about the issue.

Chas publishes an editorial about the issue.

Latvijas Vestnesis

provides the printed version of President Vaira Vike-Freibergas interview for the National Radio. provides the printed version of President Vaira Vike-Freiberga’s interview for the National Radio. Journalist: Last week Russian foreign affairs minister made a statement that OSCE Missions to Latvia and Estonia still have lot to do regarding Russian-speakers in these countries and he asked to continue the activities of both Missions in these countries. As we know, Latvia and Estonia hope that Missions will be closed in December this year. You are convening the meeting of experts, advisors to harmonise international obligations with national interests in the field of state language policy.

Journalist: Last week Russian foreign affairs minister made a statement that OSCE Missions to Latvia and Estonia still have lot to do regarding Russian-speakers in these countries and he asked to continue the activities of both Missions in these countries. As we know, Latvia and Estonia hope that Missions will be closed in December this year. You are convening the meeting of experts, advisors to harmonise international obligations with national interests in the field of state language policy.

President: The official stance of Latvia is that we have had a very successful co-operation with the Mission, and I think that we could even be named as the example for other countries how a country shall co-operate with missions and gradually introduce amendments to its legislation to bring the country from totalitarian regime, which we had here in Soviet times, to the level when we correspond to any international requirements and criteria in the field of human rights in almost no time. We consider our work a success story, and the peak point of this success is that we can see the closure of the Mission, of course, continuing the dialogue with the OSCE High Commissioner, we are not absolutely perfect. We have definitely done all what was required from us. I think, perfection, from our own point of view, is that we want to strengthen all democratic institutions in our country, at the same time it is clear that we want to strengthen the rights of our people and our language. Therefore, the statement of Mr.Ivanov is inappropriate from the following aspect: it is not in the tasks of this organisation. We ourselves are aware of these issues. But we want to be on the very safe side that considerations regarding human rights would not contradict with the basic policy of our country, which is that the Latvian language is the only official and state language, the only language of the debates in the Saeima, it is absolutely clear that we have to ensure that. The question is whether our legislation and the Constitution guarantee that; my opinion is that they do. But at the same time we do not want to make any requirements which place our citizens in different categories”.

President: The official stance of Latvia is that we have had a very successful co-operation with the Mission, and I think that we could even be named as the example for other countries how a country shall co-operate with missions and gradually introduce amendments to its legislation to bring the country from totalitarian regime, which we had here in Soviet times, to the level when we correspond to any international requirements and criteria in the field of human rights in almost no time. We consider our work a success story, and the peak point of this success is that we can see the closure of the Mission, of course, continuing the dialogue with the OSCE High Commissioner, we are not absolutely perfect. We have definitely done all what was required from us. I think, perfection, from our own point of view, is that we want to strengthen all democratic institutions in our country, at the same time it is clear that we want to strengthen the rights of our people and our language. Therefore, the statement of Mr.Ivanov is inappropriate from the following aspect: it is not in the tasks of this organisation. We ourselves are aware of these issues. But we want to be on the very safe side that considerations regarding human rights would not contradict with the basic policy of our country, which is that the Latvian language is the only official and state language, the only language of the debates in the Saeima, it is absolutely clear that we have to ensure that. The question is whether our legislation and the Constitution guarantee that; my opinion is that they do. But at the same time we do not want to make any requirements which place our citizens in different categories.

Press Report

Press Report

Latvian foreign minister Monday in Bucharest in address to Organisation of Security and Cooperation in Europe (OSCE) member countries foreign ministers meeting reported about society integration in Latvia and the OSCE's activities in the future, Foreign Ministry press office reported. Indulis Berzins said Latvia has actively worked towards strengthening of democratic society, it has simplified the naturalization procedure and devoted increased attention at explanation of citizenship acquiring aspects. He noted the permanent contribution of Latvia to securing education of minorities and pointed at formation of a special minorities education advisory council for successful implementation of bilingual and minorities education. Berzins said the work of Latvia's National Human Rights Office has significantly improved especially co-ordination with other human rights protection bodies. He said the European Commission in its progress report pointed at progress achieved by Latvia in observance of human rights and granting democracy.

Latvian foreign minister Monday in Bucharest in address to Organisation of Security and Cooperation in Europe (OSCE) member countries foreign ministers meeting reported about society integration in Latvia and the OSCE's activities in the future, Foreign Ministry press office reported. Indulis Berzins said Latvia has actively worked towards strengthening of democratic society, it has simplified the naturalization procedure and devoted increased attention at explanation of citizenship acquiring aspects. He noted the permanent contribution of Latvia to securing education of minorities and pointed at formation of a special minorities education advisory council for successful implementation of bilingual and minorities education. Berzins said the work of Latvia's National Human Rights Office has significantly improved especially co-ordination with other human rights protection bodies. He said the European Commission in its progress report pointed at progress achieved by Latvia in observance of human rights and granting democracy. BNS, Latvijas Vestnesis, Telegraf

The decision on closing the OSCE mission in Latvia will probably be made at the end of December, LETA was told by Minister of Foreign Affairs Indulis Berzins. Berzins informed that he has met with foreign ministers of numerous countries and representatives of the government during the OSCE meeting in Bucharest, and all of them have expressed understanding of Latvia's desire to close the mission. Latvia has fulfilled tasks set by the OSCE and therefore the OSCE mission is to be closed, the minister stressed. Berzins pointed out that Latvia did not choose occupation and the processes that followed, Latvia chose social integration. The state has proved that the social integration process has not been carried out forcibly but because it is necessary for the state, the official pointed out.

The decision on closing the OSCE mission in Latvia will probably be made at the end of December, LETA was told by Minister of Foreign Affairs Indulis Berzins. Berzins informed that he has met with foreign ministers of numerous countries and representatives of the government during the OSCE meeting in Bucharest, and all of them have expressed understanding of Latvia's desire to close the mission. Latvia has fulfilled tasks set by the OSCE and therefore the OSCE mission is to be closed, the minister stressed. Berzins pointed out that Latvia did not choose occupation and the processes that followed, Latvia chose social integration. The state has proved that the social integration process has not been carried out forcibly but because it is necessary for the state, the official pointed out. LETA, Diena

Answering to the statement of Russian Minister of Foreign Affairs I.Ivanov on the presence of the OSCE missions to Latvia and Estonia, Latvian Minister of Foreign Affairs I.Berzins said that unfortunately Estonian Prime Minister M.Laar was right when saying that Russia used these missions to achieve its goals.

Answering to the statement of Russian Minister of Foreign Affairs I.Ivanov on the presence of the OSCE missions to Latvia and Estonia, Latvian Minister of Foreign Affairs I.Berzins said that unfortunately Estonian Prime Minister M.Laar was right when saying that Russia used these missions to achieve its goals. Panorama Latvii

MP H.Demakova, leader of Latvian delegation to OSCE Parliamentary Assembly last week went to Austria to the conference “Baltic States, Austria and EU expansion”. Ms. Demakova told the journalist that Austria supported Latvia’s position on closing the OSCE Mission at end of this year.

MP H.Demakova, leader of Latvian delegation to OSCE Parliamentary Assembly last week went to Austria to the conference Baltic States, Austria and EU expansion. Ms. Demakova told the journalist that Austria supported Latvias position on closing the OSCE Mission at end of this year. Lauku Avize

N.Lebedeva in

N.Lebedeva in Chas comments the statement made by Latvian Minister of Foreign Affairs I.Berzins that the OSCE Mission most likely would be closed and it meant that Latvia had passed its maturity examination. Already in 1996 Latvian officials expressed their wish to close the Mission or change its status; similar statements were made just a month ago. President of Rumania during his visit to Latvia last week said that he understood arguments of Latvia but there was no common opinion at the Ministerial Council. Ms.Lebedeva reminded the statement made by Russian Minister of Foreign Affairs I.Ivanov that the OSCE Missions in Latvia and Estonia had not fulfilled their guidelines. Also Minister of Foreign Affairs of Rumania M.Joane, Acting Chairman of OSCE had the same opinion when stating that simultaneous closure of missions in Latvia and Estonia could have a negative impact on all operational activities of the organisation.

Quite often some politician or journalist speaks about serious problems concerning national minority rights in Latvia and refers to the annual EC progress report. In general EC acknowledged that Latvia had fulfilled the “political criteria” on its way to EU, and basic human rights and freedoms were observed here. Newspaper

Quite often some politician or journalist speaks about serious problems concerning national minority rights in Latvia and refers to the annual EC progress report. In general EC acknowledged that Latvia had fulfilled the political criteria on its way to EU, and basic human rights and freedoms were observed here. Newspaper Lauku Avize asks two human rights experts – MFA Humanitarian Issues Department Head J.Mazeiks and the Saeima European Affairs Commission Head E.Inkens why such different interpretation of this document is possible and about the real situation with human rights in Latvia.

In order to harmonise international commitments with national interests concerning the state language issue, President Vaira Vike-Freiberga has called on her advisors to hold a meeting with experts, LETA was informed at the president's press centre. Experts from the justice and foreign affairs ministries, Saeima Legal Commission will be invited to the meeting, as well as specialists from the faculty of law at the University of Latvia (LU), LU Human Rights Institute, Human Rights and Ethnical Studies Centre, State Language Centre. The meeting is scheduled at the Riga Palace at 11.30 a.m. December 6.

In order to harmonise international commitments with national interests concerning the state language issue, President Vaira Vike-Freiberga has called on her advisors to hold a meeting with experts, LETA was informed at the president's press centre. Experts from the justice and foreign affairs ministries, Saeima Legal Commission will be invited to the meeting, as well as specialists from the faculty of law at the University of Latvia (LU), LU Human Rights Institute, Human Rights and Ethnical Studies Centre, State Language Centre. The meeting is scheduled at the Riga Palace at 11.30 a.m. December 6. LETA

Newspaper

Newspaper Chas writes that according their information the main topic on the agenda will be the case of A.Ignatene about violation her human rights. Likely that experts will also speak about the Estonian amendments to their election laws. When asked about the possible outcome of this meeting, officials were quite reserved. A.Pildegovics, Adviser to President on Political Issues said that they intended to discuss a set of questions concerning protection of national interests concerning national minorities, and as the result could be summing up of the different opinions on this issue. M.Mits from the Human Rights Institute had the same opinion.

Latvia's Social Democratic Welfare Party (SDWP) members last weekend took part in the congress of Russia's Unity and Fatherland party congress in Moscow and discussed with the Russian party's leaders the possible cooperation both at the level of parties and states. SDWP representatives met Moscow Mayor Yury Luzhkov, Russia's Emergency Situations Minister Sergey Shoiga and the party's third co-chairman Mintimer Shaimiyev, SDWP leader Jurij Zuravlov told reporters.

Latvia's Social Democratic Welfare Party (SDWP) members last weekend took part in the congress of Russia's Unity and Fatherland party congress in Moscow and discussed with the Russian party's leaders the possible cooperation both at the level of parties and states. SDWP representatives met Moscow Mayor Yury Luzhkov, Russia's Emergency Situations Minister Sergey Shoiga and the party's third co-chairman Mintimer Shaimiyev, SDWP leader Jurij Zuravlov told reporters. BNS

Some time ago Latvian mass media published information that Russia has allotted certain sum of money to start information war against Latvia. Now Russian-speaking newspaper

Some time ago Latvian mass media published information that Russia has allotted certain sum of money to start information war against Latvia. Now Russian-speaking newspaper Vesti Segodnya tries to prove the opposite – it was Latvia that started it. As examples are named the broadcasting on Russian TV channel RTR the documentary The Union of Former that described the heavenly life of Russian speakers in Latvia; Swiss newspaper Neue Zurcher Zeitung published an article Difficult heritage of the Soviet Russification policy. The Swiss journalist used as experts a Latvian political scientist and editor of the newspaper Diena. After describing the Russification of Latvia during the Soviet period the journalist comes to a conclusion that due to the consequences of this polity Latvian authorities could not implement 0 version for citizenship and grant the Russian language the status of the second official language. Vesti Segodnya

National Development Plan submitted to the government. After the plan is passed it should become a foundation for distribution of state investment program and receiving financing from the European Union pre-accession programs. The plan’s major goals are business-friendly economy, development of human resources, promoting employment and growth of all regions, the plan also includes an action plan with estimated EU financing and state money required for administering the EU financing. Ieva Jaunzeme, director general at the Latvian Employees Confederation and a member of the National Development Plan’s expert group, tells Diena that the plan was not developed for the European Commission but the state itself, so that the nation’s competitiveness is promoted.

National Development Plan submitted to the government. After the plan is passed it should become a foundation for distribution of state investment program and receiving financing from the European Union pre-accession programs. The plans major goals are business-friendly economy, development of human resources, promoting employment and growth of all regions, the plan also includes an action plan with estimated EU financing and state money required for administering the EU financing. Ieva Jaunzeme, director general at the Latvian Employees Confederation and a member of the National Development Plans expert group, tells Diena that the plan was not developed for the European Commission but the state itself, so that the nations competitiveness is promoted. Diena, Neatkariga

Press Report

President of Latvia Vaira Vike-Freiberga considers that the OSCE Mission to Latvia has fulfilled all the guidelines and should be closed by the end of this year. The President praised Latvia’s co-operation with OSCE high commissioners and Mission members.

President of Latvia Vaira Vike-Freiberga considers that the OSCE Mission to Latvia has fulfilled all the guidelines and should be closed by the end of this year. The President praised Latvias co-operation with OSCE high commissioners and Mission members. Diena

The OSCE missions in Estonia and Latvia have not yet fulfilled their pledge to protect local ethnic Russians from discrimination, Russian Foreign Minister Igor Ivanov charged. Even though the OSCE activities have made a significant impact on the Baltic States' policy toward their sizeable Russian communities, issues of citizenship and Russian language remain unresolved, Ivanov said late Saturday. Citizenship for local Russians is a particular concern, with only 8,000 out of 550,000 legal aliens receiving Latvian citizenship this year. According to Ivanov, only 3,500 people out of 220,000 Russians living in Estonia received citizenship status last year. Moscow also called for "serious attention to be paid to Latvian and Estonian laws on the Russian language," Ivanov was as saying by the ITAR-TASS news agency.

The OSCE missions in Estonia and Latvia have not yet fulfilled their pledge to protect local ethnic Russians from discrimination, Russian Foreign Minister Igor Ivanov charged. Even though the OSCE activities have made a significant impact on the Baltic States' policy toward their sizeable Russian communities, issues of citizenship and Russian language remain unresolved, Ivanov said late Saturday. Citizenship for local Russians is a particular concern, with only 8,000 out of 550,000 legal aliens receiving Latvian citizenship this year. According to Ivanov, only 3,500 people out of 220,000 Russians living in Estonia received citizenship status last year. Moscow also called for "serious attention to be paid to Latvian and Estonian laws on the Russian language," Ivanov was as saying by the ITAR-TASS news agency. BNS, Neatkariga, Vesti Segodnya

"I hope that the Organisation for Security and Co-operation in Europe will not succumb to Russia's pressure and the situation in Latvia will be evaluated according to the achievements," Minister of Foreign Affairs Indulis Berzins said in commenting on the Russian Foreign Minister Igor Ivanov's statement to OSCE member countries concerning the work of OSCE missions in Latvia and Estonia. Berzins said that the situation is not ideal and perfect in any country. Much can be done in any country concerning the human rights sector. Latvia's progress however has been recognised in the last report by the European Commission, which said that Latvia has complied with the Copenhagen criteria, added Berzins. Latvia has observed OSCE's guidelines, and the mission should be closed in Latvia at the end of December, stressed Berzins adding that the mission to Estonia should also be closed as the neighbour country has observed the OSCE requirements as well. Berzins said he regrets that the Estonian premier's statement has proved to be right, the statement said that Russia uses the OSCE missions for achieving goals that are different from the OSCE missions' goals.

"I hope that the Organisation for Security and Co-operation in Europe will not succumb to Russia's pressure and the situation in Latvia will be evaluated according to the achievements," Minister of Foreign Affairs Indulis Berzins said in commenting on the Russian Foreign Minister Igor Ivanov's statement to OSCE member countries concerning the work of OSCE missions in Latvia and Estonia. Berzins said that the situation is not ideal and perfect in any country. Much can be done in any country concerning the human rights sector. Latvia's progress however has been recognised in the last report by the European Commission, which said that Latvia has complied with the Copenhagen criteria, added Berzins. Latvia has observed OSCE's guidelines, and the mission should be closed in Latvia at the end of December, stressed Berzins adding that the mission to Estonia should also be closed as the neighbour country has observed the OSCE requirements as well. Berzins said he regrets that the Estonian premier's statement has proved to be right, the statement said that Russia uses the OSCE missions for achieving goals that are different from the OSCE missions' goals.
Prime Minister Andris Berzins' advisor Atis Sjanitis also told LETA that the guidelines set by the OSCE mission have been observed and all OSCE member countries are being informed about the situation in Latvia. The matter has also been discussed in Romania a few days ago. It will be decided at the end of December if the OSCE mission in Latvia is to be closed. Sjanitis said that the mission to Latvia has been working successfully. Sjanitis added that Russia's stance on the matter of Russian-speakers in the Baltic countries is nothing new, and such a statement of Ivanov did not surprise Latvia. Besides, Russia has only one vote at the OSCE, said Sjanitis. LETA

Minister of Foreign Affairs Indulis Berzins today and tomorrow (December 4) is taking part in an annual meeting of foreign ministers from the Organisation for Security and Co-operation in Europe (OSCE) member states in Bucharest,

Minister of Foreign Affairs Indulis Berzins today and tomorrow (December 4) is taking part in an annual meeting of foreign ministers from the Organisation for Security and Co-operation in Europe (OSCE) member states in Bucharest, LETA was informed by the press centre at the Ministry of Foreign Ministry.

Closing the Organisation for Security and Co-operation in Europe (OSCE) missions in Latvia and Estonia has not been included on the agenda of OSCE foreign ministers' summit in Bucharest, the OSCE chairman, Romanian Foreign Affairs Minister Mircea Geoana told ITAR-TASS on Sunday. Geoana said that the matter would be reviewed later. He said that the OSCE would attempt to find an optimal solution, taking into account changes in internal legislation of Latvia and Estonia according to OSCE's directives and principles.

Closing the Organisation for Security and Co-operation in Europe (OSCE) missions in Latvia and Estonia has not been included on the agenda of OSCE foreign ministers' summit in Bucharest, the OSCE chairman, Romanian Foreign Affairs Minister Mircea Geoana told ITAR-TASS on Sunday. Geoana said that the matter would be reviewed later. He said that the OSCE would attempt to find an optimal solution, taking into account changes in internal legislation of Latvia and Estonia according to OSCE's directives and principles. LETA

The European Court of Human Rights (ECHR) has to date sent the Latvian government information and requested comments for 27 complaints filed by residents of Latvia, said Latvia's representative at the ECHR. Kristine Malinovska said that most of the complaints have cited European human rights clauses related to the right to a private and family life, inviolability of housing and correspondence (10 cases), as well as the rights to a fair trial and trial in fair time (9 cases).

The European Court of Human Rights (ECHR) has to date sent the Latvian government information and requested comments for 27 complaints filed by residents of Latvia, said Latvia's representative at the ECHR. Kristine Malinovska said that most of the complaints have cited European human rights clauses related to the right to a private and family life, inviolability of housing and correspondence (10 cases), as well as the rights to a fair trial and trial in fair time (9 cases). BNS, Telegraf

The board of the Latvian Social Democratic Workers Party (LSDSP) will turn against those who want to split the ranks of Social Democrats. As

The board of the Latvian Social Democratic Workers Party (LSDSP) will turn against those who want to split the ranks of Social Democrats. As LETA was told by LSDSP Secretary General Janis Dinevics, the party's board has already prepared a call "On Unity of the Party", for which the party's November 28 board meeting did not vote only because the Saeima LSDSP deputies had confirmed their readiness to work in one faction. The situation is different now, after Deputy Janis Leja has announced his wish to leave LSDSP and its Saeima faction. Neatkariga

Ventspils’ event "Year of European Languages and Society Integration" concludes the year of European languages in Latvia. Events of the European languages year took place in 47 countries – the Council of Europe member countries and countries that have signed the European Cultural Convention.

Ventspils event "Year of European Languages and Society Integration" concludes the year of European languages in Latvia. Events of the European languages year took place in 47 countries – the Council of Europe member countries and countries that have signed the European Cultural Convention. Neatkariga says that the goal of the languages year was to increase awareness of the beauty of multi-lingual society, and Ventspils is a good place for this as several languages are spoken in the city. Neatkariga, Diena, Vechernyaya Riga

Diena

looks into positions of Latvias political parties ahead of eighth Saeima elections. Right-wing political forces – Latvias Way, the Peoples Party and TB/LNNK – have not lost hope to keep power after the Saeima elections, meanwhile, leftist forces – LSDSP and PCTVL – are convinced they can take power from the right-wing parties, says Diena. PCTVL could have very good results, chances of LSDSP are rather unclear, and they will be greatly determined by outcome of internal discussions within the party and on whether Egils Baldzens quits and establishes a new party. The eighth Saeima elections will be however the most serious test for right-wing forces that have been in power since Latvias independence was restored, which is proved by their defeat at Riga municipal elections, concludes the newspaper. looks into positions of Latvia’s political parties ahead of eighth Saeima elections. Right-wing political forces – Latvia’s Way, the People’s Party and TB/LNNK – have not lost hope to keep power after the Saeima elections, meanwhile, leftist forces – LSDSP and PCTVL – are convinced they can take power from the right-wing parties, says Diena. PCTVL could have very good results, chances of LSDSP are rather unclear, and they will be greatly determined by outcome of internal discussions within the party and on whether Egils Baldzens quits and establishes a new party. The eighth Saeima elections will be however the most serious test for right-wing forces that have been in power since Latvia’s independence was restored, which is proved by their defeat at Riga municipal elections, concludes the newspaper.