Press Report

Press Report

An advisor to the Moscow mayor included in the official list of Russian delegates coming to the Latvian capital Riga for celebration of the city's 800th anniversary this weekend will not be let into Latvia as competent Latvian authorities have refused to lift his current status of persona non grata. Alexander Perelygin will not be issued a Latvian visa because competent authorities would not change the decision made last November about banning Perelygin from entering Latvia for a year, reported the Latvian Foreign Ministry. The Riga City Council asked the Interior Ministry to grant an exception in respect of Perelygin so that he would be able to come to Riga for the anniversary celebration. Moreover, Perelygin was also appointed as the chairman of the Moscow task force for co-operation with Riga.

An advisor to the Moscow mayor included in the official list of Russian delegates coming to the Latvian capital Riga for celebration of the city's 800th anniversary this weekend will not be let into Latvia as competent Latvian authorities have refused to lift his current status of persona non grata. Alexander Perelygin will not be issued a Latvian visa because competent authorities would not change the decision made last November about banning Perelygin from entering Latvia for a year, reported the Latvian Foreign Ministry. The Riga City Council asked the Interior Ministry to grant an exception in respect of Perelygin so that he would be able to come to Riga for the anniversary celebration. Moreover, Perelygin was also appointed as the chairman of the Moscow task force for co-operation with Riga. Diena, Chas

Yesterday the Cabinet of Ministers accepted the amendments to Regulations No 33 On the Examination Procedure of Latvian Language Proficiency and Basic Rules of the Constitution of the Republic of Latvia, National Anthem and Latvian History, which provide for some changes in the structure of history tests given for naturalisation purposes. From now on a test in history will be composed of not only multiple choice questions but also open questions. Naturalisation Board head E.Aldermane informed

Yesterday the Cabinet of Ministers accepted the amendments to Regulations No 33 On the Examination Procedure of Latvian Language Proficiency and Basic Rules of the Constitution of the Republic of Latvia, National Anthem and Latvian History, which provide for some changes in the structure of history tests given for naturalisation purposes. From now on a test in history will be composed of not only multiple choice questions but also open questions. Naturalisation Board head E.Aldermane informed Neatkariga that open questions will be only a small part of the test, besides, these open questions will be such questions which in the opinion of Naturalisation Board would be incorrectly to give as multiple choice questions, for example, Which language is the state language in Latvia? Chas, Latvijas Vestnesis, Diena

Diena

columnist D.Araja tries to evaluate all the happenings having nationalistic character which occurred during this summer – starting with the contest organised by Vieda and ending with the latest activities of Solidarity. Her question is whether these happenings are activities of innocent inexperienced patriots or planned manipulation with people who are not aware of that. National Programme of Latvian Language Learning director A.Priedite says that if young people who had not done anything before suddenly start to be very active, in fact, it means that there is somebody behind their back. Political scientist A.Pabriks considers that it would be foolish to blame some unknown black power, however, most likely the east is under suspicion. In opinion of A.Pabriks the further development of the situation could be the attempt to establish a consolidate Russian oriented civic movement that would have support from municipalities and parties; or another alternative – attempt to prove ineffectiveness of state institutions. Political scientist N.Muizhnieks do not believe in theory about organised conspiracy, but his biggest concern is that Latvias Russian speaking community, which is rather diverse, is rather consolidate what regards language issues. columnist D.Araja tries to evaluate all the happenings having nationalistic character which occurred during this summer – starting with the contest organised by Vieda and ending with the latest activities of “Solidarity”. Her question is whether these happenings are “activities of innocent inexperienced patriots or planned manipulation with people who are not aware of that”. National Programme of Latvian Language Learning director A.Priedite says that if “young people who had not done anything before suddenly start to be very active, in fact, it means that there is somebody behind their back”. Political scientist A.Pabriks considers that “it would be foolish to blame some unknown black power, however, most likely the east is under suspicion”. In opinion of A.Pabriks the further development of the situation could be the attempt to establish a consolidate Russian oriented civic movement that would have support from municipalities and parties; or another alternative – attempt to prove ineffectiveness of state institutions. Political scientist N.Muizhnieks do not believe in theory about organised conspiracy, but his biggest concern is that Latvia’s Russian speaking community, which is rather diverse, is rather consolidate what regards language issues. The Centre of Human Rights and Ethnic Studies director N.Muizhnieks gives his response to the comments of Russian press on the letter “Garda against Latvia” written and distributed by the Centre. N.Muizhnieks explains what determined the circle of people who signed the letter. As it was summer time and many people were having vacations, N.Muizhnieks took an opportunity to inform about the letter at the public political forum organised by Soros Foundation. In result, the letter was signed by many researchers and members of NGOs. Centre director assesses the letter as a success – “it cannot be called a serious change in state policy, however, it is something”.

The Centre of Human Rights and Ethnic Studies director N.Muizhnieks gives his response to the comments of Russian press on the letter Garda against Latvia written and distributed by the Centre. N.Muizhnieks explains what determined the circle of people who signed the letter. As it was summer time and many people were having vacations, N.Muizhnieks took an opportunity to inform about the letter at the public political forum organised by Soros Foundation. In result, the letter was signed by many researchers and members of NGOs. Centre director assesses the letter as a success – it cannot be called a serious change in state policy, however, it is something. Chas

Commenting support voiced last week by government coalition party Latvia’s Way, in nominating her for a second term in office, Latvia's President Vaira Vike-Freiberga admitted that she feels surprised and pleased, adding that the move can be "translated in various ways." Vike-Freiberga also said on Monday that Latvia's EU and NATO bids are in no way related to introducing a popular elected president for Latvia. "I don't see any special relation between these three various issues. The EU is one thing, NATO another, and the president's institution a third," said the president. Asked whether she believes if the support voiced by Latvian Way is anything to do with the coming parliament elections in fall next year, Vike-Freiberga said that "it can be translated in various ways."

Commenting support voiced last week by government coalition party Latvias Way, in nominating her for a second term in office, Latvia's President Vaira Vike-Freiberga admitted that she feels surprised and pleased, adding that the move can be "translated in various ways." Vike-Freiberga also said on Monday that Latvia's EU and NATO bids are in no way related to introducing a popular elected president for Latvia. "I don't see any special relation between these three various issues. The EU is one thing, NATO another, and the president's institution a third," said the president. Asked whether she believes if the support voiced by Latvian Way is anything to do with the coming parliament elections in fall next year, Vike-Freiberga said that "it can be translated in various ways." Diena, Respublika

Security Police have sent a letter to the Ministry of Justice with the request to examine the compliance of NGO “Youth Movement Solidarity” with the Law on NGO and Associations. Security Police have established that the organisers of the meeting in Mezhaparks did not ensure public order during the meeting, that the real number of people taking part in the meeting exceeded the indicated number, as well as the person, who calls himself Ivan Stalnoy and runs the organisation, is not among the names of founders and officials of the movement. Security Police learned that I.Stalnoy actually is a student of Cesis Gimnasium E.Zalitis.

Security Police have sent a letter to the Ministry of Justice with the request to examine the compliance of NGO Youth Movement Solidarity with the Law on NGO and Associations. Security Police have established that the organisers of the meeting in Mezhaparks did not ensure public order during the meeting, that the real number of people taking part in the meeting exceeded the indicated number, as well as the person, who calls himself Ivan Stalnoy and runs the organisation, is not among the names of founders and officials of the movement. Security Police learned that I.Stalnoy actually is a student of Cesis Gimnasium E.Zalitis. Neatkariga

Chas informs that Tuesday’s morning I.Stalnoy spent at Security Police and now the organisation is suspected in preparation unsanctioned activities during Riga 800th anniversary. Deputy J. Sokolovsky said that the activities of Police are illegal as the examination of Solidarity does not fall under the competence of Security Police.

Chas informs that Tuesdays morning I.Stalnoy spent at Security Police and now the organisation is suspected in preparation unsanctioned activities during Riga 800th anniversary. Deputy J. Sokolovsky said that the activities of Police are illegal as the examination of Solidarity does not fall under the competence of Security Police.

Vesti Segodnja

asks opinions of some politicians about Solidarity. FF/LNNK J.Dobelis says that his attitude towards the organisation is a bit ironic and he does not consider that the movement has any ideals and principles. Social Democrat V.Lazo thinks that we should be very careful when new organisations are established at the time when we want to join the EU and NATO. For now it is hard to tell what are the true aims of Solidarity. FHRUL deputy J.Sokolovsky is of very high opinion about professionalism of the leader of Solidarity, however, now it is hard to tell if the organisation will grow into a serious political power. asks opinions of some politicians about Solidarity. FF/LNNK J.Dobelis says that his attitude towards the organisation is a bit ironic and he does not consider that the movement has any ideals and principles. Social Democrat V.Lazo thinks that “we should be very careful when new organisations are established at the time when we want to join the EU and NATO. For now it is hard to tell what are the true aims of Solidarity”. FHRUL deputy J.Sokolovsky is of very high opinion about professionalism of the leader of “Solidarity”, however, now it is hard to tell if the organisation will grow into a serious political power.

Press Report

Press Report

Yesterday the Committee of the Cabinet of Ministers accepted the regulations on the passports of Latvian citizens and non-citizens, however, the revision of the articles concerning spelling last names of non-Latvian origin in the official documents was postponed for further expertise.

Yesterday the Committee of the Cabinet of Ministers accepted the regulations on the passports of Latvian citizens and non-citizens, however, the revision of the articles concerning spelling last names of non-Latvian origin in the official documents was postponed for further expertise. Neatkariga, Chas

Yesterday the Latvian Association for Supporting Schools with the Russian Language of Tuition (LASSRLT) gave a press conference concerning their relation to the youth movement “Solidarity”. LASSRLT chairperson I.Pimenovs said that for now their support to “Solidarity” is more in the form of advice and in regard to LASSRLT contribution to the picket in Mezhaparks organised by “Solidarity”, Pimenovs said, “we helped to set the goals”. However, “Solidarity” leader I.Stalnoy says that neither he nor his colleagues have received any kind of support from LASSRT. According to the information at the disposal of Chas, Civic Freedoms Foundation or otherwise known as Berezovsky’s Foundation, has allocated some funding for the movement.

Yesterday the Latvian Association for Supporting Schools with the Russian Language of Tuition (LASSRLT) gave a press conference concerning their relation to the youth movement Solidarity. LASSRLT chairperson I.Pimenovs said that for now their support to Solidarity is more in the form of advice and in regard to LASSRLT contribution to the picket in Mezhaparks organised by Solidarity, Pimenovs said, we helped to set the goals. However, Solidarity leader I.Stalnoy says that neither he nor his colleagues have received any kind of support from LASSRT. According to the information at the disposal of Chas, Civic Freedoms Foundation or otherwise known as Berezovskys Foundation, has allocated some funding for the movement. Jauna, Chas, Vesti Segodnja, Respublika, Panorama Latvii

Vesti Segodnja

comments on the response of Latvian authorities to the activities organised by Solidarity. The newspaper writes that the Latvian authorities are not only fearing the possibility of provocation but also they feel that Solidarity is not a small group of extremists, but it is a serious power. National minorities will keep fighting for equality with peaceful methods, as, fortunately, the residents of Latvia are not so hot-tempered. And our security services should not fear Solidarity, but they should launch a dialogue with them. However, life experience shows that authorities are simply not able to communicate with national minorities on equal basis. This, by the way, is also established by the EU, OSCE and UN. comments on the response of Latvian authorities to the activities organised by “Solidarity”. The newspaper writes that “the Latvian authorities are not only fearing the possibility of provocation but also they feel that “Solidarity” is not a small group of extremists, but it is a serious power. National minorities will keep fighting for equality with peaceful methods, as, fortunately, the residents of Latvia are not so hot-tempered. And our security services should not fear “Solidarity”, but they should launch a dialogue with them. However, life experience shows that authorities are simply not able to communicate with national minorities on equal basis. This, by the way, is also established by the EU, OSCE and UN”. Riga City Council Mayor G.Bojars has taken decision to establish the vacancy of Russian-Latvian translator at the Council. The main tasks of the translator will be to translate official written communication, as well as provide interpretation services for official happenings.

Riga City Council Mayor G.Bojars has taken decision to establish the vacancy of Russian-Latvian translator at the Council. The main tasks of the translator will be to translate official written communication, as well as provide interpretation services for official happenings. Chas, Vesti Segodnja

Press Report

Rigas Balss talks about the recent activities – youth movement in support to education in the Russian language Solidarity picket in Mezaparks and Russias pop star concert in the Dome Square - which target audiences were Russian-speaking people. The newspaper considers that Russian-speakers have more possibilities since leftists have got power at Riga City Council. State Language Centre director when asked about the latest venues says that, of course, people are entitled to have rights of expression and assembling, however, in her opinion, all these latest happenings are very likely to be organised by political powers hostile to the Latvian Government. Because we have made some deviations in regard to the language requirements, we are pressed to yield even more. We have to fight for the existence of the Latvian language, however, in practice we are not doing that. Nobody wants to ban the Russian language in Latvia, we want people to learn Latvian.

Chas

informs about the rumours that on 12 September Solidarity is going to organise the next meeting, however, the leaders of the youth organisation deny the given information and say that they do not exclude the possibility of provocation. informs about the rumours that on 12 September “Solidarity” is going to organise the next meeting, however, the leaders of the youth organisation deny the given information and say that they do not exclude the possibility of provocation. The Ministry of Justice stated that the State Language Centre is entitled to examine the issuance of the state language certificates. The Ministry of Justice reviewed the functions and rights of the State Language Centre in regard to the case of I.Podkolzina. I.Podkolzina was issued the state language certificate in 1997 in Daugavpils, however, when examined for the second time in August, 1998, it was established at this time her language proficiency does not comply with the level of language proficiency stated in the certificate.

The Ministry of Justice stated that the State Language Centre is entitled to examine the issuance of the state language certificates. The Ministry of Justice reviewed the functions and rights of the State Language Centre in regard to the case of I.Podkolzina. I.Podkolzina was issued the state language certificate in 1997 in Daugavpils, however, when examined for the second time in August, 1998, it was established at this time her language proficiency does not comply with the level of language proficiency stated in the certificate. Respublika, Chas

This week Latvian Prime Minister A.Berzinsh will have an unscheduled meeting with Russian ambassador to Latvia I.Studennikov. The main discussion object is Latvian Russian agreement on social security issues.

This week Latvian Prime Minister A.Berzinsh will have an unscheduled meeting with Russian ambassador to Latvia I.Studennikov. The main discussion object is Latvian Russian agreement on social security issues. Vesti Segodnja

Press Report

Press Report

Latvia’s Way will be supporting the re-election of Latvia's current President Vaira Vike-Freiberga. LW reports that the support for Vike-Freiberga would be in order to ensure Latvia's accession to the European Union and NATO. After joining the EU and NATO, LW is prepared to discuss the possibility of a popular elected president.

Latvias Way will be supporting the re-election of Latvia's current President Vaira Vike-Freiberga. LW reports that the support for Vike-Freiberga would be in order to ensure Latvia's accession to the European Union and NATO. After joining the EU and NATO, LW is prepared to discuss the possibility of a popular elected president. Diena, Chas

Bizness & Baltija media group owner Vladimir Gurov had submitted a claim against the provision under the Radio and Television Law requiring broadcasting companies to limit the use of languages other than Latvian to 25 percent of their total daily broadcasting time. Because of this provision, Radio Bizness & Baltija, a radio station with a target audience of Russian-speakers, is unable to air as much Russian-language broadcasts as it deems to be necessary. Gurov believes this statutory provision is contradictory to the Latvian Constitution articles about human rights, the right to freedom of speech and the right of ethnic minorities to preserve and develop their language, ethnic and culture peculiarities. Moreover, this requirement also fails to comply with the European Convention of Human Rights and Basic Freedoms and the Covenant on Civic and Political Rights. Ojars Rubenis, the chairman of the Latvian broadcasting media watchdog, the National Radio and Television Council, told BNS that one can always find something to contest and review in a law but so far the language use restrictions "have been a problem only for Radio Bizness & Baltija and Mr. Gurov." Rubenis said the Latvian laws governing audio-visual area have been approved by the European Union and the European Commission did not have any objections to restrictions on use of foreign languages. Constitutional Court acting chairman Romans Apsitis told BNS that the court panel will review Gurov's application of claim in next few weeks to decide whether a case should or should not be opened over his allegations. Radio Bizness & Baltija has been quarrelling with the National Radio and Television Council over the language use restrictions for a long time. The council several times wanted to suspend the radio station's operations but Radio Bizness & Baltija always appealed against these decisions. There are several radio stations in Latvia targeting the Russian-speaking audience. Whenever the National Radio and Television Council detects excessive broadcasting in languages other than Latvian, the guilty station's broadcasting rights get suspended for one or several days.

Bizness & Baltija media group owner Vladimir Gurov had submitted a claim against the provision under the Radio and Television Law requiring broadcasting companies to limit the use of languages other than Latvian to 25 percent of their total daily broadcasting time. Because of this provision, Radio Bizness & Baltija, a radio station with a target audience of Russian-speakers, is unable to air as much Russian-language broadcasts as it deems to be necessary. Gurov believes this statutory provision is contradictory to the Latvian Constitution articles about human rights, the right to freedom of speech and the right of ethnic minorities to preserve and develop their language, ethnic and culture peculiarities. Moreover, this requirement also fails to comply with the European Convention of Human Rights and Basic Freedoms and the Covenant on Civic and Political Rights. Ojars Rubenis, the chairman of the Latvian broadcasting media watchdog, the National Radio and Television Council, told BNS that one can always find something to contest and review in a law but so far the language use restrictions "have been a problem only for Radio Bizness & Baltija and Mr. Gurov." Rubenis said the Latvian laws governing audio-visual area have been approved by the European Union and the European Commission did not have any objections to restrictions on use of foreign languages. Constitutional Court acting chairman Romans Apsitis told BNS that the court panel will review Gurov's application of claim in next few weeks to decide whether a case should or should not be opened over his allegations. Radio Bizness & Baltija has been quarrelling with the National Radio and Television Council over the language use restrictions for a long time. The council several times wanted to suspend the radio station's operations but Radio Bizness & Baltija always appealed against these decisions. There are several radio stations in Latvia targeting the Russian-speaking audience. Whenever the National Radio and Television Council detects excessive broadcasting in languages other than Latvian, the guilty station's broadcasting rights get suspended for one or several days. Diena, BNS, Chas

Russia's public television channel ORT is set to broadcast a documentary on Latvia's President Vaira Vike-Freiberga on Thursday evening, as part of its Formula of Power series project. The film will speak of Vike-Freiberga's fate, her life in exile and her family, as well as her beliefs as to what the life of every Latvian should be like in ten years time.

Russia's public television channel ORT is set to broadcast a documentary on Latvia's President Vaira Vike-Freiberga on Thursday evening, as part of its Formula of Power series project. The film will speak of Vike-Freiberga's fate, her life in exile and her family, as well as her beliefs as to what the life of every Latvian should be like in ten years time. Diena

Social Democrat chairperson J.Bojars talks about the plans and perspectives of the party. As the main goal for the party is to win at the next Saeima election and J.Bojars is very sure of the victory.

Social Democrat chairperson J.Bojars talks about the plans and perspectives of the party. As the main goal for the party is to win at the next Saeima election and J.Bojars is very sure of the victory. Jauna

Friday at Riga City Council about 30-40 young people who support the movement “Solidarity” took part in non-sanctioned meeting. 2 City Council deputies, as well as Riga City vice mayor S.Dolgopolovs talk to the audience and tried to explain the measures taken in regard to education policy.

Friday at Riga City Council about 30-40 young people who support the movement Solidarity took part in non-sanctioned meeting. 2 City Council deputies, as well as Riga City vice mayor S.Dolgopolovs talk to the audience and tried to explain the measures taken in regard to education policy. Diena, Neatkariga, Vesti Segodnja, Chas, Panorama Latvii

Russia-Latvia intergovernmental committee chairperson A.Gorbunovs gave a positive evaluation to co-operation between Riga and Moscow, however, calls Riga Mayor G.Bojars to sign such agreement that does not contradict to the Latvian legislation, otherwise G.Bojars would have to resign from the post of the Mayor.

Russia-Latvia intergovernmental committee chairperson A.Gorbunovs gave a positive evaluation to co-operation between Riga and Moscow, however, calls Riga Mayor G.Bojars to sign such agreement that does not contradict to the Latvian legislation, otherwise G.Bojars would have to resign from the post of the Mayor. Vesti Segodnja

Vesti Segodnja

talks with the leaders of Solidarity about their experience at the Security Police. J.Obolevich says I was examined for more than three hours. At the beginning they offered me to work for them. Then they told me that I should say farewell to my job at the municipal police and that my studies at the Police Academy will be under the question because of my activities. The questions were mainly about the relation of Solidarity to national bolshevistic organisations and my personal connections and acquaintances. When after three hours I said that I do not have anything else to tell, they replied It is easy to get here – it is difficult to get out. The founder of Solidarity I.Stalnoj shares with his experience at the Security Police with newspaper talks with the leaders of “Solidarity” about their experience at the Security Police. J.Obolevich says “I was examined for more than three hours. At the beginning they offered me to work for them. Then they told me that I should say farewell to my job at the municipal police and that my studies at the Police Academy will be under the question because of my activities. The questions were mainly about the relation of “Solidarity” to national bolshevistic organisations and my personal connections and acquaintances. When after three hours I said that I do not have anything else to tell, they replied “It is easy to get here – it is difficult to get out””. The founder of “Solidarity” I.Stalnoj shares with his experience at the Security Police with newspaper ChasChas. He is indignant about the difference in the reaction of the authorities to activities of Garda and his movement. . He is indignant about the difference in the reaction of the authorities to activities of Garda and his movement.

Press Report

Press Report

Latvian-Russian intergovernmental commission co-chairman from Latvia, Anatolijs Gorbunovs, approves of proposed cooperation between Riga and Moscow but wants the relevant document to comply with the Latvian law. In the interview to Latvian Radio on Thursday, Gorbunovs called on the Riga Mayor, Gundars Bojars, to sign with Moscow an agreement, which would not be contradictory to the Latvian law. Transportation minister Gorbunovs, who acts as the substitute premier while the Latvian Prime Minister Andris Berzins is having his summer vacation, said that the dialogue between Riga and Moscow should be maintained and it would bolster economic ties between the two cities.

Latvian-Russian intergovernmental commission co-chairman from Latvia, Anatolijs Gorbunovs, approves of proposed cooperation between Riga and Moscow but wants the relevant document to comply with the Latvian law. In the interview to Latvian Radio on Thursday, Gorbunovs called on the Riga Mayor, Gundars Bojars, to sign with Moscow an agreement, which would not be contradictory to the Latvian law. Transportation minister Gorbunovs, who acts as the substitute premier while the Latvian Prime Minister Andris Berzins is having his summer vacation, said that the dialogue between Riga and Moscow should be maintained and it would bolster economic ties between the two cities. BNS, Rigas Balss (Russian version)

The Russian Foreign Ministry on Thursday issued yet another indignant statement over activities by former members of the Latvian SS Waffen unit also called the Latvian Legionnaires. The latest gathering of the old soldiers near the western Latvian town of Tukums on August 4 prompted the Russian ministry to say, "former SS-men continue to stage meetings in Latvia while the authorities keep silent and take it indulgently." "This gathering has reconfirmed that for some people in Latvia, Nazism is not a thing of the remote past," said the Russian Foreign Ministry. The Russian Foreign Ministry said that Moscow regarded "such statements and activities of former SS-men in general as a factor provoking serious ethnic tension in Latvia."

The Russian Foreign Ministry on Thursday issued yet another indignant statement over activities by former members of the Latvian SS Waffen unit also called the Latvian Legionnaires. The latest gathering of the old soldiers near the western Latvian town of Tukums on August 4 prompted the Russian ministry to say, "former SS-men continue to stage meetings in Latvia while the authorities keep silent and take it indulgently." "This gathering has reconfirmed that for some people in Latvia, Nazism is not a thing of the remote past," said the Russian Foreign Ministry. The Russian Foreign Ministry said that Moscow regarded "such statements and activities of former SS-men in general as a factor provoking serious ethnic tension in Latvia." BNS, Diena, Chas

The UN Human Rights Committee has found that the rights of a Latvian left-wing activist had been violated when she was prevented from running in 1997 local elections due to insufficient knowledge of the state language. The UN committee on July 25, 2001, found as illegal the decision by the Latvian election committee to remove Antonina Ignatane, a Latvian citizen, from the list of candidates in municipal elections, because the woman was not fluent in Latvian. The committee's findings were Thursday made public by Ignatane's representative, Tatyana Zhdanok, one of the

The UN Human Rights Committee has found that the rights of a Latvian left-wing activist had been violated when she was prevented from running in 1997 local elections due to insufficient knowledge of the state language. The UN committee on July 25, 2001, found as illegal the decision by the Latvian election committee to remove Antonina Ignatane, a Latvian citizen, from the list of candidates in municipal elections, because the woman was not fluent in Latvian. The committee's findings were Thursday made public by Ignatane's representative, Tatyana Zhdanok, one of the

leaders in the left-wing alliance For Equal Rights. The UN Human Rights Committee rejected the Latvian government's argument that Latvian language proficiency is obligatory for election candidates and this requirement is reasonable and objective. The committee said the language proficiency couldn’t be used as restriction for citizens to run in elections. The UN committee stated that the Latvian State was under obligation to provide Ignatane with an effective remedy and to take steps to prevent similar violations occurring in future. Within 90 days Latvia is to report to the UN Human Rights Committee about the measures taken to give effect to the committee's ruling. The committee also said the Latvian municipal election law provision, requiring candidates to obtain from the State Language Board a Latvian language proficiency certificate, was contradictory to the International Covenant on Civil and Political Rights. Zhdanok said the UN Human Rights Committee decisions are of recommending nature, as opposed to verdicts made by the European Court of Human Rights, however, countries usually try to abide by the decisions made. The committee does not decide on financial compensation. "There will be a great scandal, if the state ignores this decision," said the leftist human right activist. Zhdanok suggested that in this case "the responsibility lies with" the State Language Board head Dzintra Hirsa. She said Hirsa should be punished for illegal actions in order to be motivated not to commit any human rights violations in future. The complaint by Ignatane was the first complaint from Latvia in which the UN Human Rights Committee had made a decision but about ten more complaints from Latvia have been accepted for review. There have been more complaints but the state usually remedies violations in the first stage of the proceedings when the UN committee asks it to provide its arguments.

leaders in the left-wing alliance For Equal Rights. The UN Human Rights Committee rejected the Latvian government's argument that Latvian language proficiency is obligatory for election candidates and this requirement is reasonable and objective. The committee said the language proficiency couldnt be used as restriction for citizens to run in elections. The UN committee stated that the Latvian State was under obligation to provide Ignatane with an effective remedy and to take steps to prevent similar violations occurring in future. Within 90 days Latvia is to report to the UN Human Rights Committee about the measures taken to give effect to the committee's ruling. The committee also said the Latvian municipal election law provision, requiring candidates to obtain from the State Language Board a Latvian language proficiency certificate, was contradictory to the International Covenant on Civil and Political Rights. Zhdanok said the UN Human Rights Committee decisions are of recommending nature, as opposed to verdicts made by the European Court of Human Rights, however, countries usually try to abide by the decisions made. The committee does not decide on financial compensation. "There will be a great scandal, if the state ignores this decision," said the leftist human right activist. Zhdanok suggested that in this case "the responsibility lies with" the State Language Board head Dzintra Hirsa. She said Hirsa should be punished for illegal actions in order to be motivated not to commit any human rights violations in future. The complaint by Ignatane was the first complaint from Latvia in which the UN Human Rights Committee had made a decision but about ten more complaints from Latvia have been accepted for review. There have been more complaints but the state usually remedies violations in the first stage of the proceedings when the UN committee asks it to provide its arguments. BNS, Respublika, Panorama Latvii, Vesti Segodnya, Chas

Russia's public television channel ORT is set to broadcast a documentary on Latvia's President Vaira Vike-Freiberga on Thursday evening, as part of its Formula of Power series project. "Formula of Power. Latvia's President" will be broadcast on ORT at 23:45 Moscow time, an hour earlier in Latvia and three hours earlier GMT. Formula of power is a joint project by Russia's ORT TV, ITAR-TASS news agency and Moskovsky Novosty newspaper. The series includes reports, films and interviews. The film set to be broadcast on Thursday will speak of Vike-Freiberga's fate, her life in exile and her family, as well as her beliefs as to what the life of every Latvian should be like in ten years time.

Russia's public television channel ORT is set to broadcast a documentary on Latvia's President Vaira Vike-Freiberga on Thursday evening, as part of its Formula of Power series project. "Formula of Power. Latvia's President" will be broadcast on ORT at 23:45 Moscow time, an hour earlier in Latvia and three hours earlier GMT. Formula of power is a joint project by Russia's ORT TV, ITAR-TASS news agency and Moskovsky Novosty newspaper. The series includes reports, films and interviews. The film set to be broadcast on Thursday will speak of Vike-Freiberga's fate, her life in exile and her family, as well as her beliefs as to what the life of every Latvian should be like in ten years time. BNS

President of Latvian Bank E.Repse does not plan to join any of the existing parties and he did not deny a possibility to establish a new right wing party. Diena, Rigas Balss, Respublika,

President of Latvian Bank E.Repse does not plan to join any of the existing parties and he did not deny a possibility to establish a new right wing party. Diena, Rigas Balss, Respublika,

A.Pereligin, Councilor to Moscow City Mayor Luzhkov will not receive Latvian visa to attend Riga 800 anniversary. His name is included in the list of persons non-grata for one years when last autumn due to security reasons he was refused a Latvian visa.

A.Pereligin, Councilor to Moscow City Mayor Luzhkov will not receive Latvian visa to attend Riga 800 anniversary. His name is included in the list of persons non-grata for one years when last autumn due to security reasons he was refused a Latvian visa. Diena

State Language Center will invite several Riga City Council deputies individually to take the state language test. Center’s Director Dz.Hirsha said that For Human Rights in United Latvia faction deputies I.Ivanov, V.Buzajev, G.Kotov and O.Schipcov and Russian Party representative M.Gavrilov will be asked to come to the Center in September to test their language knowledge.

State Language Center will invite several Riga City Council deputies individually to take the state language test. Centers Director Dz.Hirsha said that For Human Rights in United Latvia faction deputies I.Ivanov, V.Buzajev, G.Kotov and O.Schipcov and Russian Party representative M.Gavrilov will be asked to come to the Center in September to test their language knowledge. Neatkariga

In an interview to Latvian Radio Ministry of Education and Science K.Greiskalns, speaking about the latest events concerning education in the Russian language, said that such political activities could be expected but he did not see any problems within the framework of education law because students did not have problems to master the state language to be able to enter Latvian high schools. And 2004 is a realistic time to implement the law. Minister was sure that the Latvian language training level at Russian speaking schools was high enough let students in grades 5 –6 would master proper Latvian by 2004 when they would have to start learning only in the state language.

In an interview to Latvian Radio Ministry of Education and Science K.Greiskalns, speaking about the latest events concerning education in the Russian language, said that such political activities could be expected but he did not see any problems within the framework of education law because students did not have problems to master the state language to be able to enter Latvian high schools. And 2004 is a realistic time to implement the law. Minister was sure that the Latvian language training level at Russian speaking schools was high enough let students in grades 5 –6 would master proper Latvian by 2004 when they would have to start learning only in the state language. Latvijas Vestnesis

Head of Naturalization Board E.Aldermane in an interview to Latvian TV said that she personally did not like the word naturalization and she had proposed to exchange it with “Citizenship Affairs Board”. It would be just logical because the Board is dealing with all aspects of citizenship. E.Aldermane agreed that there were features of two-community society in Latvia and it had been proved by scientific research. At the end of August they held a research within PHARE program “Analysis on mass media” on what Latvian and Russian press write about national, citizenship, integration issues. And the picture received was not a pleasant one. E.Aldermane sees naturalization as the first step in the integration process.

Head of Naturalization Board E.Aldermane in an interview to Latvian TV said that she personally did not like the word naturalization and she had proposed to exchange it with Citizenship Affairs Board. It would be just logical because the Board is dealing with all aspects of citizenship. E.Aldermane agreed that there were features of two-community society in Latvia and it had been proved by scientific research. At the end of August they held a research within PHARE program Analysis on mass media on what Latvian and Russian press write about national, citizenship, integration issues. And the picture received was not a pleasant one. E.Aldermane sees naturalization as the first step in the integration process. Latvijas Vestnesis

Leader of youth movement I.Stalnoy received a second call from the Security Police officers with an invitation for a meeting. When I.Stalnoy took some journalists with him to the agreed place, nobody from SP showed up. Later he and his friend and assistant Y.Obolevich were taken to the SP office for a discussion. Meanwhile Riga City Council refused Solidarnost to organize a picket at the City Council to support Russian speaking schools.

Vesti Segodnya, Panorama Latvii, Chas

Russian speaking newspaper Vesti Segodnya writes about a scandal when Latvian President V.Vike-Freiberga during the opening ceremony of Aizgarsa border cross point saw that there was no actual marked border scolded the Minister of Interior M.Seglins who excused himself with the absence of bilateral Latvian – Russian agreement on border demarcation and that also EU experts had suggested not to hurry. On that President said that border agreement should not be used as a means of international blackmailing. And therefor Latvia would unilaterally arrange its borders and on its own territory. According to the President border should be marked a few meters from the established border, all bushes cut let borderguards could have good observation possibilities. The newspaper states that it seems that Latvia is going to mark a none-existing border and it is a gross violation of international standards and could lead to a serious scandal.

Vesti Segodnya