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.

 

• Raimonds Vejonis became the President of Latvia 

On 8 July 2015 at an extraordinary Saeima’s session, Raimonds Vejonis gave the oath of office, becoming the President of Latvia. In his inaugural speech Mr. Vejonis stated that success of Latvia depends on the success of every person. He believes this is the duty of the President to balance various interests in favour of the common development of the country. There is a talk about divided society and this issue is popular among ill-wishers abroad. However, there are many issues which unite all Latvia’s residents and it would be unwise to exaggerate the differences. Latvia is proud of representatives of ethnic minorities who bring its name to international prominence. People in Latvia unite regardless of ethnicity in cases such as Zolitude tragedy. Mr. Vejonis believes it is necessary to strengthen the foundations of Latvia and common understanding of history. Mr.Vejonis’ main aim is strengthening the security and welfare of Latvia and its people. As for practical matters, the main work is to strengthen the security of Latvia, because the aggression in Ukraine has demonstrated that the military and technological security still plays very important role. Mr. Vejonis emphasised that the notion of security embraces the security of every Latvia’s resident and their families, including economic security and social responsibility, stability, transparency and predictability of decisions which would ensure the environment for entrepreneurs. He emphasised that the security and welfare of Latvia rests with further and deeper cooperation with the EU and NATO. Raimonds Vejonis has also stated that he is proud for his country and for the people of Latvia. Diena, Latvijas Avize, Neatkariga, Vesti Segodnya