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.

• Newspapers report about a conference on situation in the country a year after a referendum on status of Russian language

Newspapers report about a conference on situation in the country a year after a referendum on granting Russian language status of a state language in Latvia. According to the MEP from Latvia Inese Vaidere, situation with the positions of Latvian language has not improved during this year. Mrs Vaidere stated that strengthening of the state language should begin in kindergartens and state funded schools in which children and young people should be educated in Latvian language only. The Minister of Culture Zanete Jaunzeme-Grende informed about activities aimed at promotion of integration mentioning free-of-charge state language courses which are highly demanded among residents. Contrary to the Minister’s opinion about the importance of the language courses, the MP Ina Druviete criticized the fact of spending money for the courses instead of granting funds for strengthening and development of the state language. Vesti Segodnya, Diena, Latvijas Avize