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.

• Minister of Culture Sarmite Elerte: New Wave symbolizes ex-soviet space

According to the Minister of Culture Sarmite Elerte, international contest of young pop-singers “New Wave” organised by Russia’s TV channel in Jurmala (seaside resort city near Riga) symbolizes ex-soviet space which Latvia wants to leave forever.  The Minister believes that the level of the contest is average and she fails to understand why it is specially marked out among other events in Jurmala. Deputies of the Jurmala City Council oppose the Minister’s statement arguing that the “New Wave” brings about seven millions Lats  (ten million Euros) in the city’s budget and makes Jurmala recognisable in other countries. As reported, a group of nationalists held a protest against the contest yesterday. 

According to the Minister of Culture Sarmite Elerte, international contest of young pop-singers New Wave organised by Russias TV channel in Jurmala (seaside resort city near Riga) symbolizes ex-soviet space which Latvia wants to leave forever. The Minister believes that the level of the contest is average and she fails to understand why it is specially marked out among other events in Jurmala. Deputies of the Jurmala City Council oppose the Ministers statement arguing that the New Wave brings about seven millions Lats (ten million Euros) in the citys budget and makes Jurmala recognisable in other countries. As reported, a group of nationalists held a protest against the contest yesterday. Diena, Vesti Segodnya