Integration monitor
Integration monitor is a daily Latvian press digest on ethnic minority and society integration issues. The Monitor reviews the biggest Latvian dailies: Diena, Latvijas Avize, Neatkariga (in Latvian language), Vesti Segodnya (in Russian language). In specific cases other information sources are used. Latvian Centre for Human Rights is not responsible for information published by the media.
Oct. 4, 1997
Press Review
“People’s Harmony” circulated an open letter to Prime-Minister Guntars Krasts signed by its Chairman Janis Jurkans. “PH” requests the Prime-Minister to demand a more simple procedure for the issuing of new alien passports. The letter points to a three-month term often required for issuing a passport. “PH” believes such delays to be purposeful. CID Deputy-Director Atis Leins toldPeoples Harmony circulated an open letter to Prime-Minister Guntars Krasts signed by its Chairman Janis Jurkans. PH requests the Prime-Minister to demand a more simple procedure for the issuing of new alien passports. The letter points to a three-month term often required for issuing a passport. PH believes such delays to be purposeful. CID Deputy-Director Atis Leins told DIENA that applicants received new passports within twenty working days unless additional check-ups of Register of Inhabitants data were required. He believes that the slow exchange of old USSR passports for new alien passports could be explained by Russia having suspended the recognition of the new documents. According to BIZNES & BALTIYA only 5.45% of non-citizens have received new alien passports. Diena, B&B