Press Report

Press Report

The new US ambassador to Latvia Brian E.Carlson praised the Baltic state’s progress in developing democracy and market economy before the US Senate committee. “Today Latvia has emerged as the region's commercial, financial and transportation centre. Latvians re-established functioning democratic and market-oriented institutions after decades of Soviet mismanagement”, said Carlson. “Demonstrating a principled commitment to human rights, Latvia's leaders have liberalised naturalisation procedures and put in place the rule of law”, he added.

The new US ambassador to Latvia Brian E.Carlson praised the Baltic states progress in developing democracy and market economy before the US Senate committee. Today Latvia has emerged as the region's commercial, financial and transportation centre. Latvians re-established functioning democratic and market-oriented institutions after decades of Soviet mismanagement, said Carlson. Demonstrating a principled commitment to human rights, Latvia's leaders have liberalised naturalisation procedures and put in place the rule of law, he added. Diena, Neatkariga

A settlement has been reached in the first Latvian case heard in the European Court of Human Rights with the state agreeing to pay compensation to the claimant. The Human Rights Court Thursday confirmed a settlement over the claim by Ms. Nina Kulakova, who will get from the Latvian state a compensation of 5,000 lats (USD 8,000) for delay in investigation of a criminal case where she was a victim and also a civil claimant. The court ruled to recognise the settlement between the parties, saying that it was in line with the human right requirements.

A settlement has been reached in the first Latvian case heard in the European Court of Human Rights with the state agreeing to pay compensation to the claimant. The Human Rights Court Thursday confirmed a settlement over the claim by Ms. Nina Kulakova, who will get from the Latvian state a compensation of 5,000 lats (USD 8,000) for delay in investigation of a criminal case where she was a victim and also a civil claimant. The court ruled to recognise the settlement between the parties, saying that it was in line with the human right requirements. Diena, Neatkariga, Chas, Vesti Segodnja

The Union for Human Rights in a United Latvia has prepared amendments to the Law on Parliamentarian Election, as well as to the Law on Municipal Election. The amendments stipulates exclusion of the requirement for deputy candidates who have not graduated from the schools with the Latvian language as an instruction language, submit a certificate proving their proficiency of the state language on the highest level. The amendments are submitted to protect the rights of all individuals to vote and run for elections, informed the faction leader J.Jurkans, indicating that restrictions provided for by election laws are discriminating on the basis of the language.

The Union for Human Rights in a United Latvia has prepared amendments to the Law on Parliamentarian Election, as well as to the Law on Municipal Election. The amendments stipulates exclusion of the requirement for deputy candidates who have not graduated from the schools with the Latvian language as an instruction language, submit a certificate proving their proficiency of the state language on the highest level. The amendments are submitted to protect the rights of all individuals to vote and run for elections, informed the faction leader J.Jurkans, indicating that restrictions provided for by election laws are discriminating on the basis of the language. Diena, Chas

5 applicants have been approved to the announced 5 vacancies for NGOs representatives at the Society Integration Foundation Board. They are the following: head of NGO “Russians of West” D.Nikolayevs, Latvian Orthodox Church Archbishop Aleksandrs, NGO centre director K.Gertnere, Latvian Deaf Association Head A.Pavlins and Latvian Romanian National Association President N.Rudevics.

5 applicants have been approved to the announced 5 vacancies for NGOs representatives at the Society Integration Foundation Board. They are the following: head of NGO Russians of West D.Nikolayevs, Latvian Orthodox Church Archbishop Aleksandrs, NGO centre director K.Gertnere, Latvian Deaf Association Head A.Pavlins and Latvian Romanian National Association President N.Rudevics. Diena.

Yesterday the Russian embassy to Latvia organised a celebration to award the best Russian language teachers with the nomination “Russian Language Teacher of the Year”.

Yesterday the Russian embassy to Latvia organised a celebration to award the best Russian language teachers with the nomination Russian Language Teacher of the Year. Chas, Vesti Segodnja

Latvian Human Rights Committee chairperson L.Raihman tells

Latvian Human Rights Committee chairperson L.Raihman tells Chas about Pre-Monitoring Report funded by the Open Society Institution. L.Raihman reproaches the Latvian authorities for being arrogant and thinking that Latvia could become a member of the EU without solving Latvias biggest problem – the situation concerning Russian speakers.

Vesti Segodnja

publishes some parts of the interview with Russias politician, Union of Right Wing Parties leader B.Nemcov aired on the Latvian National TV channel. In the first part of the interview B.Nemcov talked about Russias domestic policy. At the end of the interview he recalled how he gave Latvia a lesson in 1998 when I was working for the Government your Nazis dared to march in the centre of Riga. I issued the order to stop fuel supply. And that was it – it worked immediately. publishes some parts of the interview with Russia’s politician, Union of Right Wing Parties leader B.Nemcov aired on the Latvian National TV channel. In the first part of the interview B.Nemcov talked about Russia’s domestic policy. At the end of the interview he recalled how he gave Latvia a lesson “in 1998 when I was working for the Government your Nazis dared to march in the centre of Riga. I issued the order to stop fuel supply. And that was it – it worked immediately”.

Vesti Segodnja

publishes an article The Russian Language in the Independent Latvia where gives retrospection of the problems of Russian for the last ten years. The newspaper writes the existing language policy and practice have changed the linguistic situation, however, assimilation has not occurred. What are the reasons that prevented Russians from turning into Latvians. The newspaper names the things that are lost for the Russians in regard to the Russian language, such as libraries, Russian in the streets (signs, street names, etc.), however, there are fields where it is almost impossible to influence the usage of one or another language very much, like the radio, internet. publishes an article “The Russian Language in the Independent Latvia” where gives retrospection of the problems of Russian for the last ten years. The newspaper writes “the existing language policy and practice have changed the linguistic situation, however, assimilation has not occurred. What are the reasons that prevented Russians from turning into Latvians”. The newspaper names the things that are lost for the Russians in regard to the Russian language, such as libraries, Russian in the streets (signs, street names, etc.), however, there are fields where it is almost impossible to influence the usage of one or another language very much, like the radio, internet.

Press Report

Press Report

Minorities problems in each country, including Latvia, should be looked upon individually with due regard to historic circumstances of a specific country, Latvian president said. Her remark came as she was answering to a question by Hungarian media about the situation of Russian speakers in Latvia. The president said that regardless of criticism by some countries about Latvia's minorities policy Latvia has "the most liberal citizenship law which is even more liberal than in Germany" which stipulates that on reaching 16 years of age non-citizens can automatically acquire Latvia's citizenship. "People have choice -- repatriate, integrate or retain the status of non-citizen," said Vike-Freiberga.. She reported to the journalists about support of the Latvian government to society integration, reduced naturalisation fee, Latvian language teaching programs as well as resources allocated for society integration.

Minorities problems in each country, including Latvia, should be looked upon individually with due regard to historic circumstances of a specific country, Latvian president said. Her remark came as she was answering to a question by Hungarian media about the situation of Russian speakers in Latvia. The president said that regardless of criticism by some countries about Latvia's minorities policy Latvia has "the most liberal citizenship law which is even more liberal than in Germany" which stipulates that on reaching 16 years of age non-citizens can automatically acquire Latvia's citizenship. "People have choice -- repatriate, integrate or retain the status of non-citizen," said Vike-Freiberga.. She reported to the journalists about support of the Latvian government to society integration, reduced naturalisation fee, Latvian language teaching programs as well as resources allocated for society integration. BNS, Diena, Vyecernaya Riga

Some 20 non-governmental and political organisations seeking to protect various rights of Latvia's Russian-speaking population have signed an agreement and will draft a co-operation plan, said an activist for the cause of Russian-speakers in Latvia.

Some 20 non-governmental and political organisations seeking to protect various rights of Latvia's Russian-speaking population have signed an agreement and will draft a co-operation plan, said an activist for the cause of Russian-speakers in Latvia.

Tatyana Zhdanok, the leader of the Latvian Human Rights Committee and co-chairwoman of the Equal Rights party. The co-operation will take a form of discussion, reviewing the initiatives by Russian-speaker organisations and deciding on supporting the proposals and joining in their implementation. The most recent outcome of this co-operation was the gathering of Russian-speaking residents in the Riga centre on Oct. 14, said Zhdanok. She said one of the objectives was to get ready for next parliamentary elections in Latvia to be held in fall 2002.

Tatyana Zhdanok, the leader of the Latvian Human Rights Committee and co-chairwoman of the Equal Rights party. The co-operation will take a form of discussion, reviewing the initiatives by Russian-speaker organisations and deciding on supporting the proposals and joining in their implementation. The most recent outcome of this co-operation was the gathering of Russian-speaking residents in the Riga centre on Oct. 14, said Zhdanok. She said one of the objectives was to get ready for next parliamentary elections in Latvia to be held in fall 2002. Lauku Avize, BNS

Vesti Segodnja

publishes an interview with T.Zhdanok. She is very sure that for the 8th Saeima election the parties that constitutes the Union For Human Rights in a United Latvia will not be competing with each other thus having real consolidated power. In regard about her chances to run for the next Parliamentarian election she is not so certain as her case will be reviewed in Strasbourg but most probably it will take more than a year. T.Zhdanok also voices that her party is not working for the electorate of one nationality, and believes that the Latvians will be voting for her party, too. publishes an interview with T.Zhdanok. She is very sure that for the 8th Saeima election the parties that constitutes the Union For Human Rights in a United Latvia will not be competing with each other thus having real consolidated power. In regard about her chances to run for the next Parliamentarian election she is not so certain as her case will be reviewed in Strasbourg but most probably it will take more than a year. T.Zhdanok also voices that her party is not working for the electorate of one nationality, and believes that the Latvians will be voting for her party, too.

Vesti Segodnja

discusses the possible closure of the OSCE Mission in Latvia at the end of the year. The newspaper links the issue with the discussions at the EU held in Brussels just few days ago and writes that according to the first part of the discussions the most probable assumption is that the Mission would be closed at the end of the year. As an argument the newspaper states that since Latvia is a candidate for the EU membership, the presence of the OSCE spoils not only the image of Latvia but also the goodwill of the EU, however, the EU understands that Latvia still has problems in regard to national minority issues, therefore, the EU will offer the colleagues from the OSCE to introduce the post of an advisor on the matters of Latvia and Estonia. The adviser will be the part of the OSCE HCNM office. But lets not rush with burying Peter Semnebys Mission – the final decision will be taken by the summit of the OSCE in November. Russia is going to say its word then. In regard to Latvian Prime Minister A.Berzins statement on the fulfilment of the OSCE guidelines, the newspaper writes the Latvian authorities are so impatient with trying to get rid of the unnecessary witness, that they are ready to give any fantastic promises. The columnist concludes the OSCE better stay in Latvia for some time. The mission of this European organisation is not fulfilled. discusses the possible closure of the OSCE Mission in Latvia at the end of the year. The newspaper links the issue with the discussions at the EU held in Brussels just few days ago and writes that according to the first part of the discussions the most probable assumption is that the Mission would be closed at the end of the year. As an argument the newspaper states that “since Latvia is a candidate for the EU membership, the presence of the OSCE spoils not only the image of Latvia but also the goodwill of the EU”, however, the EU understands that Latvia still has problems in regard to national minority issues, therefore, “the EU will offer the colleagues from the OSCE to introduce the post of an advisor on the matters of Latvia and Estonia. The adviser will be the part of the OSCE HCNM office. But let’s not rush with burying Peter Semneby’s Mission – the final decision will be taken by the summit of the OSCE in November. Russia is going to say its word then.” In regard to Latvian Prime Minister A.Berzins’ statement on the fulfilment of the OSCE guidelines, the newspaper writes “the Latvian authorities are so impatient with trying to get rid of the “unnecessary witness”, that they are ready to give any fantastic promises”. The columnist concludes “the OSCE better stay in Latvia for some time. The mission of this European organisation is not fulfilled”. The Saeima faction of Social Democrats believes that there is no need to sign co-operation agreement with FHRUL. LSDSP Saeima faction's chairman Egils Baldzens told that proposing such an agreement was "rather strange" of FHRUL. Baldzens stressed that LSDSP co-operates with all political forces at Saeima in tackling matters that concern LSDSP's program.

The Saeima faction of Social Democrats believes that there is no need to sign co-operation agreement with FHRUL. LSDSP Saeima faction's chairman Egils Baldzens told that proposing such an agreement was "rather strange" of FHRUL. Baldzens stressed that LSDSP co-operates with all political forces at Saeima in tackling matters that concern LSDSP's program. Lauku Avize

After couple months of unsuccessful attempts of trying to launch the work of Russian Latvian intergovernmental committee, it experiences one more crisis situation – committee’s co-chairperson from Russia’s party A.Blohin is recalled from the post of minister and his ministry is closed. Russia could not provide any information about the successor of A.Blohin.

After couple months of unsuccessful attempts of trying to launch the work of Russian Latvian intergovernmental committee, it experiences one more crisis situation – committees co-chairperson from Russias party A.Blohin is recalled from the post of minister and his ministry is closed. Russia could not provide any information about the successor of A.Blohin. Diena, Chas

In September the number of applications to naturalise has increased (884). Most probably the increase occurred due to the reduced state fee for naturalisation. By the reduction of the state fee the government has fulfilled one of the main requirements of the OSCE.

In September the number of applications to naturalise has increased (884). Most probably the increase occurred due to the reduced state fee for naturalisation. By the reduction of the state fee the government has fulfilled one of the main requirements of the OSCE. Diena

Society Integration Department Head V.Antoniskis provides information about the Society Integration Foundation, what phase it is now and principles of its work in the future.

Society Integration Department Head V.Antoniskis provides information about the Society Integration Foundation, what phase it is now and principles of its work in the future. Vyecernaya Riga

Today at the Ministry of Education and Science the session of Advisory Council on National Minority Education Matters takes place. It is scheduled to review the proposals submitted by the Latvian Association of Support to Russian Schools in Latvia.

Today at the Ministry of Education and Science the session of Advisory Council on National Minority Education Matters takes place. It is scheduled to review the proposals submitted by the Latvian Association of Support to Russian Schools in Latvia. Chas

Press Report

Press Report

The development of the eastern Latvian national border has stalled over reluctance by Russia to sign a border agreement as well lack of co-ordination and low administrative capacity within responsible Latvian agencies. It is very likely that the border agreement with Russia will be signed only after Latvia receives an invitation from NATO to join the alliance. FF/LNNK member G.Krasts said Russia was obviously reluctant to sign the border agreement with Latvia as long as the Baltic state will be seeking membership in the European Union (EU) and NATO. "Russia wants to maintain distrust in the region and strives to keep up uncertainty," said the foreign committee chairman, adding that absence of border agreements will not be an obstacle in admitting Latvia to either organisation, however.

The development of the eastern Latvian national border has stalled over reluctance by Russia to sign a border agreement as well lack of co-ordination and low administrative capacity within responsible Latvian agencies. It is very likely that the border agreement with Russia will be signed only after Latvia receives an invitation from NATO to join the alliance. FF/LNNK member G.Krasts said Russia was obviously reluctant to sign the border agreement with Latvia as long as the Baltic state will be seeking membership in the European Union (EU) and NATO. "Russia wants to maintain distrust in the region and strives to keep up uncertainty," said the foreign committee chairman, adding that absence of border agreements will not be an obstacle in admitting Latvia to either organisation, however. Neatkariga

Latvia may become the first country in the world to have the parliament with quality management certificate ISO 9001:2000. Responsible Latvian parliament officials are now making preparations for introducing the quality management system to improve the parliament's performance and become the first legislative body in the world to get ISO certificate. To make descriptions of jobs and procedures will take over 18,000 lats.

Latvia may become the first country in the world to have the parliament with quality management certificate ISO 9001:2000. Responsible Latvian parliament officials are now making preparations for introducing the quality management system to improve the parliament's performance and become the first legislative body in the world to get ISO certificate. To make descriptions of jobs and procedures will take over 18,000 lats. Diena, BNS, Chas

While on the official visit to Hungary, the Latvian President V.Vike-Freiberga said for the interview in one of the major Hungarian newspapers

While on the official visit to Hungary, the Latvian President V.Vike-Freiberga said for the interview in one of the major Hungarian newspapers Nepszabadsag Latvian-Russian relations to a large extent depend on relations with the Russian minority in Latvia. V.Vike-Freiberga stresses that in her view that relations with the Russian minority in Latvia are stabilising of late and therefore support from Russian-speaking residents for national policy and particularly for NATO membership increases. LETA

In September the number of people who have acquired citizenship through naturalisation is rather low (211, in August 756). Naturalisation Board officials explain that by problems of technical nature, that is, in September the Government was very busy was discussing state budget, so it could not spare time for approving the candidates.

In September the number of people who have acquired citizenship through naturalisation is rather low (211, in August 756). Naturalisation Board officials explain that by problems of technical nature, that is, in September the Government was very busy was discussing state budget, so it could not spare time for approving the candidates. Neatkariga

Vecernaya Riga

interviews MP FHRUL, Latvian PACE delegation member B.Cilevic. About the intention of some FF/LNNK parliament members to recall him from Latvian delegation to the Parliamentary Assembly of the Council of Europe (PACE), B.Cilevic says that it has been solved now, and it only shows that FF/LNNK has used to act like a ruling party. In regard to the support of the intention by also some Social Democrats, Cilevic says that it would make re-consider the possibility of co-operation between FHRUL and Social Democrats for the upcoming 8th Saeima election. interviews MP FHRUL, Latvian PACE delegation member B.Cilevic. About the intention of some FF/LNNK parliament members to recall him from Latvian delegation to the Parliamentary Assembly of the Council of Europe (PACE), B.Cilevic says that it has been solved now, and it only shows that FF/LNNK has used to act like a ruling party. In regard to the support of the intention by also some Social Democrats, Cilevic says that it would make re-consider the possibility of co-operation between FHRUL and Social Democrats for the upcoming 8th Saeima election.

Chas

invites people to call the newspaper if they have any concerns, problems or questions concerning the transfer to the studies exclusively in the Latvian language at national minority schools in 2004. invites people to call the newspaper if they have any concerns, problems or questions concerning the transfer to the studies exclusively in the Latvian language at national minority schools in 2004.

Chas

gives an article about the Seminar for the Principles of National Minority Schools. The newspaper is rather sceptical about optimism of the speakers who presented relevant Latvian authorities, whose speeches mainly were about that a human being can do a lot and that schools are just not aware of their capabilities. gives an article about the Seminar for the Principles of National Minority Schools. The newspaper is rather sceptical about optimism of the speakers who presented relevant Latvian authorities, whose speeches mainly were about that “a human being can do a lot and that schools are just not aware of their capabilities”. Chas Chas asks the opinions of the representatives of the Naturalisation Board and MoSE concerning the transfer and both officials do think that schools, teachers and students can and are ready for that. However, the opinion of political scientist A.Pabriks is rather sceptical. He considers that the year of 2008 would be more realistic to conduct the transfer, he also adds that when the government announced the transfer it did not ensure either physical or moral aspects for it. asks the opinions of the representatives of the Naturalisation Board and MoSE concerning the transfer and both officials do think that schools, teachers and students can and are ready for that. However, the opinion of political scientist A.Pabriks is rather sceptical. He considers that the year of 2008 would be more realistic to conduct the transfer, he also adds that when the government announced the transfer it did not ensure either physical or moral aspects for it. Latvia and Byelorussia have decided to review their border agreement in order to stipulate easier visa issuance procedure for people residing in border zones of both countries.

Latvia and Byelorussia have decided to review their border agreement in order to stipulate easier visa issuance procedure for people residing in border zones of both countries. Vesti Segodnja

Vesti Segodnja

gives some insight in the Report on the Situation of National Minorities in East Europe Countries funded by the Open Society Institution. The newspaper concludes that Soros institution most likely will become one more among those individuals and legal entities whose stance have been ignored for the last 10 years by Latvian authorities. gives some insight in the Report on the Situation of National Minorities in East Europe Countries funded by the Open Society Institution. The newspaper concludes that “Soros institution most likely will become one more among those individuals and legal entities whose stance have been ignored for the last 10 years by Latvian authorities.

Press Report

Press Report

On Monday Belgian Foreign Ministry State Secretary Annemie Neyts in a meeting with Latvian MPs said that Latvia has made the largest progress among the European Union candidate countries and is going ahead of schedule in the membership talks, the parliament press office reported.

On Monday Belgian Foreign Ministry State Secretary Annemie Neyts in a meeting with Latvian MPs said that Latvia has made the largest progress among the European Union candidate countries and is going ahead of schedule in the membership talks, the parliament press office reported. Diena

Diena

special correspondent from Brussels K.Plamse talks to the OSCE Mission to Latvia Head P.Semneby about how feasible is the closure of the OSCE Missions in Latvia and Estonia. special correspondent from Brussels K.Plamse talks to the OSCE Mission to Latvia Head P.Semneby about how feasible is the closure of the OSCE Missions in Latvia and Estonia. FHRUL wants to strengthen co-operation with Social Democrats not only at Riga City Council, but also to make an agreement between parties’ fractions at Saeima. Social Democrats fraction chairperson E.Baldzens states that fractions could agree on the issues that are on the pre-election program of Social Democratsthat and which would be acceptable for the partners and would not contradict to their mandate, however, Social Democrat V.Lazo said that she is strictly against the agreement between both fractions at Saeima.

FHRUL wants to strengthen co-operation with Social Democrats not only at Riga City Council, but also to make an agreement between parties fractions at Saeima. Social Democrats fraction chairperson E.Baldzens states that fractions could agree on the issues that are on the pre-election program of Social Democratsthat and which would be acceptable for the partners and would not contradict to their mandate, however, Social Democrat V.Lazo said that she is strictly against the agreement between both fractions at Saeima. Diena, Neatkariga, Chas

Riga City Mayor Social Democrat G.Bojars comments on the situation that FHRUL considers bring in changes in the forms of co-operation “I hope that FHRUL will not rush with decisions as I stay with my opinion – Riga Council is a business instrument and it should be approached and viewed as a business unit dealing with business issues”.

Riga City Mayor Social Democrat G.Bojars comments on the situation that FHRUL considers bring in changes in the forms of co-operation I hope that FHRUL will not rush with decisions as I stay with my opinion – Riga Council is a business instrument and it should be approached and viewed as a business unit dealing with business issues. Latvijas Vestnesis

33 applicants have applied to the vacancies for NGO members at the Society Integration Foundation. Diena

33 applicants have applied to the vacancies for NGO members at the Society Integration Foundation. Diena

Lauku Avize

asks few politicians to provide their definition of the term national minority. Peoples Party chairperson A.Skele states that in Latvia we have very difficult situation in this respect and he heavily doubts whether people masses that came here 20, 30, 40 years ago should be considered a minority. Prime Minister A.Berzins thinks that this issue requires careful considerations and no rush. FF/LNNK chairperson V.Balodis says that minorities in Latvia should be considered Romanians, Lives, Byelorussians, Ukrainians and not Russians. Social Democrat chairperson J.Bojars suggests to apply the term only to citizens. FHRUL leader J.Jurkans states that national minorities should be considered all nations which are not Latvians. asks few politicians to provide their definition of the term “national minority”. People’s Party chairperson A.Skele states that in Latvia we have very difficult situation in this respect and he heavily doubts whether “people masses” that came here 20, 30, 40 years ago should be considered a minority. Prime Minister A.Berzins thinks that this issue requires careful considerations and no rush. FF/LNNK chairperson V.Balodis says that minorities in Latvia should be considered Romanians, Lives, Byelorussians, Ukrainians and not Russians. Social Democrat chairperson J.Bojars suggests to apply the term only to citizens. FHRUL leader J.Jurkans states that national minorities should be considered all nations which are not Latvians.

Lauku Avize

reports about the Conference of National Minority Schools. The newspaper asked opinions of several principles of minority schools and the majority of them say that they are not ready for the transfer. reports about the Conference of National Minority Schools. The newspaper asked opinions of several principles of minority schools and the majority of them say that they are not ready for the transfer.

Lauku Avize

interviews United Kingdom Ambassador S.Nash. The Ambassador talks about the situation in the world, the projects UK implements in Latvia. interviews United Kingdom Ambassador S.Nash. The Ambassador talks about the situation in the world, the projects UK implements in Latvia. When Lauku AvizeWhen Lauku Avize journalists asked whether the Ambassador has faced the problems concerning integration of non-citizens and his vision of the solution to this problem, the Ambassador replies that the OSCE and the former HCNM Max van der Stoel have acknowledged that Latvia has done a lot in society integration. He says naturalisation has to concern the vast number of non-citizens and I am very happy that the Latvian Government with the support of UK will launch public awareness campaign this fall. It is hard to forecast the way that these problems would develop, however, I think that the differences between Latvias Latvians and other nationalities will diminish. Commenting on the integration of non-citizens, the Ambassador predicted that upon Latvia's inclusion in the EU and NATO, there will be less non-citizen opposition to the naturalisation. Nash admitted that this is not a question of a couple years, the process could last for several generations. Nash forecast that the number of non-citizens will be brought down considerably by 2004. journalists asked whether the Ambassador has faced the problems concerning integration of non-citizens and his vision of the solution to this problem, the Ambassador replies that the OSCE and the former HCNM Max van der Stoel have acknowledged that Latvia has done a lot in society integration. He says “naturalisation has to concern the vast number of non-citizens and I am very happy that the Latvian Government with the support of UK will launch public awareness campaign this fall. It is hard to forecast the way that these problems would develop, however, I think that the differences between Latvia’s Latvians and other nationalities will diminish”. Commenting on the integration of non-citizens, the Ambassador predicted that upon Latvia's inclusion in the EU and NATO, there will be less non-citizen opposition to the naturalisation. Nash admitted that this is not a question of a couple years, the process could last for several generations. Nash forecast that the number of non-citizens will be brought down considerably by 2004.

Lauku Avize

also asks whether the comparison between Latvia and Macedonia is correct and the Ambassador responses that situations are completely different. Recently the new OSCE HCNM R.Ekeus visited Latvia and said that the ideal solution would be universal standards for all national minorities. I do not think that it is so simple, as all countries have different historical backgrounds, however, we do not pay too much attention to such comparisons – we have things to do. also asks whether the comparison between Latvia and Macedonia is correct and the Ambassador responses that “situations are completely different. Recently the new OSCE HCNM R.Ekeus visited Latvia and said that the ideal solution would be universal standards for all national minorities. I do not think that it is so simple, as all countries have different historical backgrounds, however, we do not pay too much attention to such comparisons – we have things to do”. Publishing House Vieda has closed the second contest on the best draft law on decolonisation. The organisers report that about 20 people have submitted their draft.

Publishing House Vieda has closed the second contest on the best draft law on decolonisation. The organisers report that about 20 people have submitted their draft. Chas

Vesti Segodnja

informs about the new booklet Bilingual Children funded by the Soros Foundation. The booklets target audience is parents and is about how the kids, belonging to national minorities, should study the state language. The newspaper numerates several flaws in the booklet – it discusses the situation when one of the parents speaks the state language well, however, the newspaper considers that in Latvia more often there is the situation when both parents state language skills are rather poor. Also the newspaper is not satisfied with the treatment of the question regarding bilingual study books – the booklet says that books imposes frames and do not foster creative approach. The authors of the article do not like the answer to the question how important for national minorities is to preserve their identity, as the booklet says it is difficult to determine nowadays what is a national identity. informs about the new booklet “Bilingual Children” funded by the Soros Foundation. The booklet’s target audience is parents and is about how the kids, belonging to national minorities, should study the state language. The newspaper numerates several flaws in the booklet – it discusses the situation when one of the parents speaks the state language well, however, the newspaper considers that in Latvia more often there is the situation when both parents’ state language skills are rather poor. Also the newspaper is not satisfied with the treatment of the question regarding bilingual study books – the booklet says that “books imposes frames and do not foster creative approach”. The authors of the article do not like the answer to the question “how important for national minorities is to preserve their identity”, as the booklet says “it is difficult to determine nowadays what is a national identity”.

 

Press Report

About 250 mostly elderly people gathered today on the Esplanade in central Riga to for a meeting with "For Human Rights In A United Latvia" (PCTVL) Saeima deputies, marking the 10th anniversary of the Latvian Supreme Council's adopted law on renewal of Latvian citizenship and basic procedures for naturalisation. Upon arrival, meeting participants were handed out identical banners that stated that October 15, 1991 divided Latvia into citizens and non-citizens. The banners urged everyone to support the idea of a united Latvia. Saeima deputies have released a statement demanding the Latvian government clearly set its social integration priorities that show specific measures for facilitating unity among the people. PCTVL also demands a halt to discriminatory policies in the education sector, the right to vote for non-citizens in local elections, ratification of the European regional or minority language charter and ratification of the General Convention on Protection of National Minorities.

About 250 mostly elderly people gathered today on the Esplanade in central Riga to for a meeting with "For Human Rights In A United Latvia" (PCTVL) Saeima deputies, marking the 10th anniversary of the Latvian Supreme Council's adopted law on renewal of Latvian citizenship and basic procedures for naturalisation. Upon arrival, meeting participants were handed out identical banners that stated that October 15, 1991 divided Latvia into citizens and non-citizens. The banners urged everyone to support the idea of a united Latvia. Saeima deputies have released a statement demanding the Latvian government clearly set its social integration priorities that show specific measures for facilitating unity among the people. PCTVL also demands a halt to discriminatory policies in the education sector, the right to vote for non-citizens in local elections, ratification of the European regional or minority language charter and ratification of the General Convention on Protection of National Minorities. Diena, Neatkariga, Chas, Panorama Latvii

Latvian State Language Centre (SLC) inspectors are set to attend the open meetings of the Riga city council to check on state language proficiency of the city council members, the centre reported. The inspectors decided to exert to such method after Riga city council members whose state language proficiency is under doubts failed to prove to the centre their language proficiency. Although the inspectors will not be able to draw administrative protocols, their presence in the city council meetings may push the issue ahead. A fruitless correspondence between the Centre and Riga City Council members from the leftist block For Human Rights in United Latvia has been under way for several months whereby the Centre is seeking an opportunity to meet the city council members to check out their state language proficiency while the deputies are making excuses with the state language proficiency certificates saying they don't have to prove their language proficiency repeatedly. Initially Riga Mayor Gundars Bojars pledged to promote arrival of the city council members to the Centre for tests but later he sent a letter to the Centre saying he can not influence meeting of the deputies with inspectors. But Russian speaking city council deputies have been avoiding meeting the state language Centre inspectors citing documents they are holding which affirm their state language proficiency at the top level. The only Riga city council member who met with inspectors and proved his state language proficiency meets the top level requirements was Sergejs Zaletajevs from Human Rights faction while the other still continue avoiding the inspectors.

Latvian State Language Centre (SLC) inspectors are set to attend the open meetings of the Riga city council to check on state language proficiency of the city council members, the centre reported. The inspectors decided to exert to such method after Riga city council members whose state language proficiency is under doubts failed to prove to the centre their language proficiency. Although the inspectors will not be able to draw administrative protocols, their presence in the city council meetings may push the issue ahead. A fruitless correspondence between the Centre and Riga City Council members from the leftist block For Human Rights in United Latvia has been under way for several months whereby the Centre is seeking an opportunity to meet the city council members to check out their state language proficiency while the deputies are making excuses with the state language proficiency certificates saying they don't have to prove their language proficiency repeatedly. Initially Riga Mayor Gundars Bojars pledged to promote arrival of the city council members to the Centre for tests but later he sent a letter to the Centre saying he can not influence meeting of the deputies with inspectors. But Russian speaking city council deputies have been avoiding meeting the state language Centre inspectors citing documents they are holding which affirm their state language proficiency at the top level. The only Riga city council member who met with inspectors and proved his state language proficiency meets the top level requirements was Sergejs Zaletajevs from Human Rights faction while the other still continue avoiding the inspectors. Chas, Vesti Segodnja

On Sunday the new party – Latvian United Republican Party – was established by not very public and popular people in Latvian community, although one of the three co-chairmen posts is “reserved” for a popular person claimed the founders and they cannot disclose his name as he is still a member of another party. The party is funded from its members and sponsors in Latvia and the USA. The party is for the popularly elected president, majority election system, as well as offer to liberalise naturalisation requirements and provide an opportunity for people who have resided in Latvia for at least 3 years to take part at municipal election.

On Sunday the new party – Latvian United Republican Party – was established by not very public and popular people in Latvian community, although one of the three co-chairmen posts is reserved for a popular person claimed the founders and they cannot disclose his name as he is still a member of another party. The party is funded from its members and sponsors in Latvia and the USA. The party is for the popularly elected president, majority election system, as well as offer to liberalise naturalisation requirements and provide an opportunity for people who have resided in Latvia for at least 3 years to take part at municipal election. Diena, Neatkariga

The Latvian Government has established the working group, which will examine the UN Human Rights Committee ruling in the case of A.Ignatane and will come up with the proposals for its implementation.

The Latvian Government has established the working group, which will examine the UN Human Rights Committee ruling in the case of A.Ignatane and will come up with the proposals for its implementation. Diena

Today is the last day to apply to the vacant posts of the Board of Society Integration Foundation.

Today is the last day to apply to the vacant posts of the Board of Society Integration Foundation. Chas

Chas

interviews the founder of the new centric party E.Repse. He says that his party is oriented to all residents of Latvia, as its main goal is not a political but rather of economic nature - to establish order in the country. E.Repse voices that people can communicate with his party in any language, however, he also states that the language is one of the key factors proving ones loyalty towards the state. Also he gives his vision in regard to solution of many social and economical problems in Latvia. interviews the founder of the new centric party E.Repse. He says that his party is oriented to all residents of Latvia, as its main goal is not a political but rather of economic nature - to establish order in the country. E.Repse voices that people can communicate with his party in any language, however, he also states that the language is one of the key factors proving one’s loyalty towards the state. Also he gives his vision in regard to solution of many social and economical problems in Latvia.

Vesti Segodnja

asks the opinion of some Russian politicians about the Compatriot Congress. Russian Ambassador to Latvia I.Studennikov and T.Zdanok is satisfied with the statements of V.Putin which clearly showed that Russia does not take its compatriots as a burden, but will provide a real assistance to these people. asks the opinion of some Russian politicians about the Compatriot Congress. Russian Ambassador to Latvia I.Studennikov and T.Zdanok is satisfied with the statements of V.Putin which clearly showed that Russia does not take its compatriots as “a burden”, but will provide a real assistance to these people.