Press Report

The United States NATO Committee hailed the proposal of Latvian president to delete from election law the norm requiring candidates running for elections to have top state language proficiency level, US embassy in Latvia reported. The committee said it regards the initiative of Vaira Vike-Freiberga as a courageous step. "Passage of this important reform by the Latvian parliament will be the last major step in confirming Latvia's impeccable democratic credentials and should lock in an invitation to join NATO at the historic Prague Summit," Committee President Bruce Jackson said in a statement Friday. BNS

Newspaper

Newspaper Rigas Balss asked several Latvian politicians about the latest initiative of the President Vaira Vike-Freiberga concerning the election law, and they answered that if the President submitted such amendments to the election law they would not be supported. Chairman of FF/LNNK faction V.Balodis told the journalist that the President possibly had such an opinion due to the case lost at the Strasbourg court and constant pressure of Russia. Social Democrat MP E.Baldzens said that he would not support such an initiative. If a deputy does not now the Latvian language he will not be able to work. Poet and publicist J.Peters thinks that it is even impossible to measure what is the highest state language proficiency level. If a person works for the state, he has to know the language.

Vesti Segodnya

did the same as did the same as Rigas BalssRigas Balss. Vice-President of PACE V.Paegle answered that for the last two weeks the Head of the OSCE Mission, different foreign experts constantly raised this problem, and international pressure increased, therefore she was not surprised by this initiative of the President. But if the President wanted to abolish this norm she should do it already a year ago. Not the atmosphere, especially at the Saeima before the election is very politicised. It will be difficult for Vaira Vike-Freiberga to get support from the majority deputies. Minister of Foreign Affairs I.Berzins said that the President had acted as a responsible state official understanding real democratic values. These amendments will just improve our democracy. A.Bartashevich from For Human Rights in United Latvia said that their faction just two weeks ago made the same proposal at the plenary sitting of the Saeima. What did prevent the President to support their proposal then? He pointed out that the President had not come forth with concrete draft amendments. She just threw the idea and passed it to experts for long consideration. A.Bartashevich thinks this is a pure tactic move to close the OSCE Mission to Latvia. It is interesting that the President made her move on the arrival day of the OSCE delegation. . Vice-President of PACE V.Paegle answered that for the last two weeks the Head of the OSCE Mission, different foreign experts constantly raised this problem, and international pressure increased, therefore she was not surprised by this initiative of the President. But if the President wanted to abolish this norm she should do it already a year ago. Not the atmosphere, especially at the Saeima before the election is very politicised. It will be difficult for Vaira Vike-Freiberga to get support from the majority deputies. Minister of Foreign Affairs I.Berzins said that the President had acted as a responsible state official understanding real democratic values. These amendments will just improve our democracy. A.Bartashevich from For Human Rights in United Latvia said that their faction just two weeks ago made the same proposal at the plenary sitting of the Saeima. What did prevent the President to support their proposal then? He pointed out that the President had not come forth with concrete draft amendments. She just threw the idea and passed it to experts for long consideration. A.Bartashevich thinks this is a pure tactic move to close the OSCE Mission to Latvia. It is interesting that the President made her move on the arrival day of the OSCE delegation. Newspaper

Newspaper Chas states that two major Latvian newspapers Diena and Neatkariga were positive concerning the proposal of the President to abolish the norm stipulating the highest language proficiency level for deputy candidates.

V.Sorokin in

V.Sorokin in Vechernyaya Riga writes about the proposal of the President stating that before this move she wanted to get support from experts. Therefore she invited the representatives of National Human Rights Office, Centre of Ethnic Studies and Human Rights, Human Rights Institute and State Language Centre to her office. The President reminded experts of the statement of the Head of the Mission P.Semneby that amending this norm was one of the prerequisites for closing the OSCE Mission to Latvia.

The political union For Human Rights in a United Latvia's (PCTVL) rally was held this afternoon in Riga's Kronvalda Park with about 250 mostly elderly people participating. The rally was opened with a speech by Riga City councilman Genadijs Kotovs, who accented that all of Latvia's residents must have equal rights. The demonstrators are concerned that after 2004, ethnic Russian school children will no longer be able to be taught in the Russian language. Other speakers noted that it is not permissible for Russian schools to be closed and emphasised the need to be united in the fight for ethnic Russian rights in Latvia.

The political union For Human Rights in a United Latvia's (PCTVL) rally was held this afternoon in Riga's Kronvalda Park with about 250 mostly elderly people participating. The rally was opened with a speech by Riga City councilman Genadijs Kotovs, who accented that all of Latvia's residents must have equal rights. The demonstrators are concerned that after 2004, ethnic Russian school children will no longer be able to be taught in the Russian language. Other speakers noted that it is not permissible for Russian schools to be closed and emphasised the need to be united in the fight for ethnic Russian rights in Latvia. LETA, Telegraf, Chas, Vesti Segodnya,

Issuing new passports could be delayed by another half-year due to required amendments to the law. The Citizenship and Migration Administration says that it is technically ready to introduce the new passports already at the beginning of 2002. Meanwhile, delays on introduction of machine-readable passports create problems for people at borders, as border guards of other countries regard the current outdated and easy-to-counterfeit passports with distrust, says

Issuing new passports could be delayed by another half-year due to required amendments to the law. The Citizenship and Migration Administration says that it is technically ready to introduce the new passports already at the beginning of 2002. Meanwhile, delays on introduction of machine-readable passports create problems for people at borders, as border guards of other countries regard the current outdated and easy-to-counterfeit passports with distrust, says Diena.

Diena

published a letter of D.Baltruma about the latest government decisions concerning the rights of the state language inspectors. It is just not serious because everybody knows how much you can trust to language certificates. They will not help if we do not respect ourselves and the endless articles of the state language law and exams just irritate non-Latvians. While the Latvian language is not implemented in our everyday life as a self-evident thing in all spheres of public life, it will remain the major pain of the Latvian nation. published a letter of D.Baltruma about the latest government decisions concerning the rights of the state language inspectors. It is just not serious because everybody knows how much you can trust to language certificates. They will not help if we do not respect ourselves and the endless articles of the state language law and exams just irritate non-Latvians. While the Latvian language is not implemented in our everyday life as a self-evident thing in all spheres of public life, it will remain the major pain of the Latvian nation. Today at the government committee will be considered a draft agreement on co-operation between the Latvian and Russian ministries of culture. It envisages establishing an atmosphere of utmost benevolence for exchange and developing co-operation in the field of cinematography, theatre, fine arts etc.

Today at the government committee will be considered a draft agreement on co-operation between the Latvian and Russian ministries of culture. It envisages establishing an atmosphere of utmost benevolence for exchange and developing co-operation in the field of cinematography, theatre, fine arts etc. Chas

Press Report

Press Report

The newspaper

The newspaper Chas writes that on December 20 will be taken a decision on the future of the OSCE Mission to Latvia. The eight years of OSCE presence in Latvia, their recommendations, including the ones of the OSCE High Commissioner Max van der Stoel have been a real splinter for Latvian authorities. Therefore they have made a titanic attempt to close the Mission. Also the President, when suggesting abolishing the language knowledge norm for deputy candidates in the election law. P.Semneby, Head of the OSCE Mission to Latvia commenting this said that it was an important step increasing the chances to close the Mission. Still Chas thinks that it would be better if both the Mission and Mr.Semneby stayed in Latvia a little bit longer.

The newspaper

The newspaper Panorama Latvii, commenting on the Presidents proposal on the language norm, states that if the norm were abolished then the number of well-known people would increase in the candidate lists. Of course, the ruling parties are not so fond of this proposal, but the Head of the OSCE Mission P.Semneby has a different opinion.

New US ambassador to Latvia approves of the Latvian president's initiative to remove from the election law the provision requiring candidates running for general elections to have top-level state language proficiency. Ambassador Brian E.Carlson, who on Friday made an introductory visit to the Latvian premier, also evaluated positively the fact that a discussion had been started on the subject, said an advisor to the Latvian Prime Minister Andris Berzins. The US ambassador and the Latvian premier also talked about further co-operation between the two nations, Prime Minister's foreign advisor Atis Sjanits told

New US ambassador to Latvia approves of the Latvian president's initiative to remove from the election law the provision requiring candidates running for general elections to have top-level state language proficiency. Ambassador Brian E.Carlson, who on Friday made an introductory visit to the Latvian premier, also evaluated positively the fact that a discussion had been started on the subject, said an advisor to the Latvian Prime Minister Andris Berzins. The US ambassador and the Latvian premier also talked about further co-operation between the two nations, Prime Minister's foreign advisor Atis Sjanits told BNS.

Neatkariga adds that the both officials expressed their conviction that Latvia was ready for closing the OSCE Mission at the end of this year because the Mission guidelines had been fulfilled.

Latvian foreign minister Indulis Berzins approves of the Latvian president's initiative to remove from the election law the provision requiring candidates running for general elections to have top level state language proficiency. Answering a question by BNS, Berzins said the suggestion by Latvian President Vaira Vike-Freiberga was a good idea that would increase the standing of the Latvian language in elected state bodies. "The president as a responsible head of state with adequate understanding of democracy and democratic principles has proposed a very good and right idea," said the foreign minister.

Latvian foreign minister Indulis Berzins approves of the Latvian president's initiative to remove from the election law the provision requiring candidates running for general elections to have top level state language proficiency. Answering a question by BNS, Berzins said the suggestion by Latvian President Vaira Vike-Freiberga was a good idea that would increase the standing of the Latvian language in elected state bodies. "The president as a responsible head of state with adequate understanding of democracy and democratic principles has proposed a very good and right idea," said the foreign minister. BNS

MP B.Cilevich once more “spoiled” the image of Latvia during the PACE deputies meeting with the faction For Human Rights in United Latvia. He told the guests about the existing problems with education, citizenship, and language quotas in TV. When asked if he spoke about the problems with language limitation for deputy candidates, B.Cilevich answered that he had told the guests that the abolishing of these limitations would not affect their candidates. For Human Rights in United Latvia had a sufficiently long list of candidates with a very high Latvian language knowledge.

MP B.Cilevich once more spoiled the image of Latvia during the PACE deputies meeting with the faction For Human Rights in United Latvia. He told the guests about the existing problems with education, citizenship, and language quotas in TV. When asked if he spoke about the problems with language limitation for deputy candidates, B.Cilevich answered that he had told the guests that the abolishing of these limitations would not affect their candidates. For Human Rights in United Latvia had a sufficiently long list of candidates with a very high Latvian language knowledge. Panorama Latvii

Journalists from the newspaper

Journalists from the newspaper Diena visited two Russian-speaking schools to find out the attitude of students to the planned transition to the tuition in the state language in year 2004. Neither students in Riga Secondary School No 34 nor Kraslava Varaviksne School had many problems to communicate in Latvian and did not worry much about this transition but they did not want to lose their culture, identity and language. In Kraslava school students wanted to keep the bilingual education model and not to transfer to the Latvian language. But there are still problems with this bilingual model – when learning complicated things in the Latvian language students have difficulties with both - the Latvian language and the subject.

Diena also briefly describes the national minority education situation in Estonia and Lithuania.

Also

Also Chas writes about the bilingual education describing an event organised by Riga Secondary School No 88 when they invited 120 teachers to show their achievements in bilingual education. The guests could visit lessons of different subjects to see how teachers try to make these lessons attractive for students. But precaution of Russian teachers about this method is understandable because if not used properly, the result could be disastrous.

The announced action of the newspaper

The announced action of the newspaper Chas Become a citizen caused a vivid and contradictory discussion on Internet forum of Chas. And it proved the importance of this issue. Chas publishes some of the comments made.

Latvian left-wing parties’ members of the Human Rights alliance may merge, creating a strong party enjoying support of majority of population. This suggestion was made by Latvian Socialist Party (LSP) chairman Alfreds Rubiks at the party congress Saturday, and the National Harmony Party leader Janis Jurkans also did not rule out such possibility. The new party's name could be the Latvian Socialist National Harmony and Equal Rights Party, incorporating the names of all three alliance partners. Apart from the Socialists and the National Harmony Party the Human Rights alliance also includes Equal Rights movement.

Latvian left-wing parties members of the Human Rights alliance may merge, creating a strong party enjoying support of majority of population. This suggestion was made by Latvian Socialist Party (LSP) chairman Alfreds Rubiks at the party congress Saturday, and the National Harmony Party leader Janis Jurkans also did not rule out such possibility. The new party's name could be the Latvian Socialist National Harmony and Equal Rights Party, incorporating the names of all three alliance partners. Apart from the Socialists and the National Harmony Party the Human Rights alliance also includes Equal Rights movement. BNS, Neatkariga (10.11), Telegraf, Vesti Segodnya

Latvian Socialist Party (LSP) chairman in his report to the party congress Saturday stated that only better relations with Russia could get the Latvian economy out of the present crisis. Socialist leader Alfred Rubiks said NATO was an aggressive military-political organisation and his party was ready to initiate a referendum to find out the public opinion about Latvia's plans to join the alliance. BNS

Latvian Socialist Party (LSP) chairman in his report to the party congress Saturday stated that only better relations with Russia could get the Latvian economy out of the present crisis. Socialist leader Alfred Rubiks said NATO was an aggressive military-political organisation and his party was ready to initiate a referendum to find out the public opinion about Latvia's plans to join the alliance. BNS

Latvia's publishing company, notorious with holding several scandalous contests, Friday sent an open letter to Latvian National Human Rights Office director reproaching him over the intention of Latvian president to amend the election law by deleting from it the state language proficiency requirement. Vieda in the letter to Olafs Bruvers also pointed at concrete gross violation of the state language law admitted by Baltcom TV cable television provider. Vieda director Aivars Garda described in the letter one specific incident when he, after unsuccessful conversation with one Russian speaker technician employed by Baltcom TV, was told that order by Vieda can be done only after Dec. 10 because there are no technicians employed at the company speaking in Latvian. BNS

Latvia's publishing company, notorious with holding several scandalous contests, Friday sent an open letter to Latvian National Human Rights Office director reproaching him over the intention of Latvian president to amend the election law by deleting from it the state language proficiency requirement. Vieda in the letter to Olafs Bruvers also pointed at concrete gross violation of the state language law admitted by Baltcom TV cable television provider. Vieda director Aivars Garda described in the letter one specific incident when he, after unsuccessful conversation with one Russian speaker technician employed by Baltcom TV, was told that order by Vieda can be done only after Dec. 10 because there are no technicians employed at the company speaking in Latvian. BNS

S.Tocs from

S.Tocs from Neatkariga writes that the President is right when suggesting abolishing the highest language knowledge level for the Saeima and local government deputy candidates. There is no such norm in any European country; also Estonia abolished it. The President stated that if necessary she was ready to come forth with the legislative initiative to abolish this discriminative norm. It is a brave step and politically – a responsible decision. Most likely there will be some yells about this and they will be also about Vaira Vike-Freiberga personally. S.Tocs states that abolishing these limitations for deputy candidates is not so important from the practical point of view but it is important how Latvia is perceived in Europe and the world.

On Friday were opened the new premises of the Naturalisation Board Information Centre. Centre is aimed at raising the level of public awareness and knowledge on integration issues and further public participation in social and political processes.

On Friday were opened the new premises of the Naturalisation Board Information Centre. Centre is aimed at raising the level of public awareness and knowledge on integration issues and further public participation in social and political processes. Neatkariga

The newspaper

The newspaper Chas published a letter of V.Minayeva where Ms. Minayeva wrote about the problems with the Russian school in Latvia. The author wonders - a Russian school but everything is in Latvian, Russian teachers but a Latvian director, is it a necessity or just a nonsense.

Press Report

Press Report

The President proposes lifting language requirements on candidates for Saeima and municipal deputies. President Vaira Vike-Freiberga is ready to submit to the Saeima amendments to the law on elections so that a supposedly discriminatory point, which requires that candidates for Saeima and municipal deputies be proficient in the state language, is stricken. The president could take such a step if experts she is consulting with say that this law does not comply with international standards or the Constitution. The next meeting of the President and experts is scheduled on 17 December.

The President proposes lifting language requirements on candidates for Saeima and municipal deputies. President Vaira Vike-Freiberga is ready to submit to the Saeima amendments to the law on elections so that a supposedly discriminatory point, which requires that candidates for Saeima and municipal deputies be proficient in the state language, is stricken. The president could take such a step if experts she is consulting with say that this law does not comply with international standards or the Constitution. The next meeting of the President and experts is scheduled on 17 December. Diena and Chas ask the opinion of the leading politicians about Presidents statement. The Prime Minister A.Berzins supports Presidents initiative. Latvias Way faction chairperson K.Libane admits that there is a difference whether the proposal comes from FHRUL or from the President, however, the statement is a little bit unexpected and we are not ready for it. Peoples Party faction chairperson V.Muizniece even voiced a hope that the President would not put forward such initiative to the Saeima. Social Democrat faction chairperson E.Baldzens is also not ready to support the abolishment of language requirements from Election Laws. FF/LNNK faction chairperson Maris Grinblats emphasises that the Article which provides the Latvian language the status of the state language is among those articles that can be amended only by popular vote. FHRUL member B.Cilevics says that, of course, his party is satisfied with Presidents statement. Peoples Party leader A.Skele says that he is categorically against abolishment of language requirements for election candidates. Neatkariga, Vesti Segodnja, Panorama Latvii, Telegraf, Latvijas Vestnesis

The suggestion by Latvian President Vaira Vike-Freiberga to remove from the election law the provision requiring state language proficiency from candidates may increase Latvia's chances to see the OSCE mission wind up its work in the Baltic state. OSCE Mission to Latvia head Peter Semneby told BNS that President's proposal was a very important step proving Latvia was ready to tackle this issue. Although the mission focused on naturalisation and citizenship issues, Semneby said that it had also turned its attention to the state language proficiency requirement for candidates in parliament elections.

The suggestion by Latvian President Vaira Vike-Freiberga to remove from the election law the provision requiring state language proficiency from candidates may increase Latvia's chances to see the OSCE mission wind up its work in the Baltic state. OSCE Mission to Latvia head Peter Semneby told BNS that President's proposal was a very important step proving Latvia was ready to tackle this issue. Although the mission focused on naturalisation and citizenship issues, Semneby said that it had also turned its attention to the state language proficiency requirement for candidates in parliament elections.

The mission head said it is important for Latvia to obtain from the OSCE positive opinion in the matter adding it could be possible to close the mission before the requirement is lifted, however, he said "Latvia should have a clear roadmap" on the issue.

The mission head said it is important for Latvia to obtain from the OSCE positive opinion in the matter adding it could be possible to close the mission before the requirement is lifted, however, he said "Latvia should have a clear roadmap" on the issue.

On Dec. 20 Semneby will present to the OSCE Permanent Council in Vienna his report on Latvia where "i will give very positive evaluation on naturalisation and citizenship," he said. The council will decide on further fate of the OSCE mission in Latvia.

On Dec. 20 Semneby will present to the OSCE Permanent Council in Vienna his report on Latvia where "i will give very positive evaluation on naturalisation and citizenship," he said. The council will decide on further fate of the OSCE mission in Latvia.

What matters is that Latvia had started dealing with this problem, and President's statement should be regarded as the beginning, said Semneby.

What matters is that Latvia had started dealing with this problem, and President's statement should be regarded as the beginning, said Semneby.

The OSCE Parliamentary Assembly delegation visiting Latvia on Wednesday and Thursday is also aware of the Latvian president's suggestion, he said but would not comment on the delegation's response to it.

The OSCE Parliamentary Assembly delegation visiting Latvia on Wednesday and Thursday is also aware of the Latvian president's suggestion, he said but would not comment on the delegation's response to it. BNS

Diena publishes editorial concerning Presidents suggestion to abolish language requirement from the Election Laws by Aivars Ozolins. He notes that this could become a major problem for Jurkans and Rubiks – if the Saeima majority supports the president, PCTVL will be no longer able to hinder Latvias shaking off Moscows grasp. It may well be that PCTVL members themselves will vote against the proposal, which they pretended to support earlier.

The OSCE Parliamentary Assembly delegation is visiting Latvia. Thursday Parliamentary Assembly met with Saeima Vice-Speaker Rihards Piks. The parliamentarians were interested in Latvia’s position towards the abolishment of language requirements from the Election Laws. The members of the Parliamentary Assembly also met Latvian Human Rights and Ethnic Studies Centre director Nils Muiznieks, Naturalisation Board Head Eizenija Aldermane and officials from foreign affairs minister.

The OSCE Parliamentary Assembly delegation is visiting Latvia. Thursday Parliamentary Assembly met with Saeima Vice-Speaker Rihards Piks. The parliamentarians were interested in Latvias position towards the abolishment of language requirements from the Election Laws. The members of the Parliamentary Assembly also met Latvian Human Rights and Ethnic Studies Centre director Nils Muiznieks, Naturalisation Board Head Eizenija Aldermane and officials from foreign affairs minister. Neatkariga, Latvijas Vestnesis

Due to residents' petitions concerning Latvianization of their names, submitted to Latvia's courts and European Court of Human Rights, President Vaira Vike-Freiberga will soon request experts to analyse the problem. The president told her advisors and other experts today that spelling in the Latvian language has become a legal problem, it should be settled so that nobody’s rights are restricted. The president believes that Latvianization of persons’ names and surnames can create a number of technical problems that would make identification of these persons more complicated, drawing the example of surname Schneider, which is to be changed into Snaiders in documents. If Latvia wants such Snaiders, and the name is passed to the Interpol, finding such person will be very complicated, said the president. The president plans to launch a debate among political scientists, linguists, lawyers and other specialists in order to evaluate all issues that concern Latvianization of people's names.

Due to residents' petitions concerning Latvianization of their names, submitted to Latvia's courts and European Court of Human Rights, President Vaira Vike-Freiberga will soon request experts to analyse the problem. The president told her advisors and other experts today that spelling in the Latvian language has become a legal problem, it should be settled so that nobodys rights are restricted. The president believes that Latvianization of persons names and surnames can create a number of technical problems that would make identification of these persons more complicated, drawing the example of surname Schneider, which is to be changed into Snaiders in documents. If Latvia wants such Snaiders, and the name is passed to the Interpol, finding such person will be very complicated, said the president. The president plans to launch a debate among political scientists, linguists, lawyers and other specialists in order to evaluate all issues that concern Latvianization of people's names. Latvijas Vestnesis

Vechernaya Riga

informs about the opening of the premises of the Society Integration Foundation and publishes parts of the speeches by Prime Minister A.Berzins, SIF Board chairperson R.Umblija, SIF member S.Bukinholt. informs about the opening of the premises of the Society Integration Foundation and publishes parts of the speeches by Prime Minister A.Berzins, SIF Board chairperson R.Umblija, SIF member S.Bukinholt.

Telegraf

interviews Naturalisation Board Head Eizenija Aldermane about Public Awareness and Citizenship Promotion Campaign. The newspaper thinks that the Campaign actually is just one of the manipulations of the Latvians and is carried out only for their own sake, as the big number of non-citizens could hinder Latvias accession to the EU. interviews Naturalisation Board Head Eizenija Aldermane about Public Awareness and Citizenship Promotion Campaign. The newspaper thinks that the Campaign actually is just one of the manipulations of the Latvians and is carried out only for their own sake, as the big number of non-citizens could hinder Latvia’s accession to the EU.

Press Report

Press Report

Latvian President Vaira Vike-Freiberga believes that the Constitution should be amended so that in future the president of state will be popularly elected. As to the possibility of running for a second presidency term, Vike-Freiberga said she would be pleased to accept the offer. “Of course, I would like to believe that it is because I do my job well and people appreciate it," said Vike-Freiberga. The Latvian president has been continuously rated as the most popular political figure in the country, according to public opinion polls.

Latvian President Vaira Vike-Freiberga believes that the Constitution should be amended so that in future the president of state will be popularly elected. As to the possibility of running for a second presidency term, Vike-Freiberga said she would be pleased to accept the offer. Of course, I would like to believe that it is because I do my job well and people appreciate it," said Vike-Freiberga. The Latvian president has been continuously rated as the most popular political figure in the country, according to public opinion polls. Diena, Vesti Segodnja, Chas, Telegraf

The recently established Society Integration Foundation had opening of its new premises yesterday.

The recently established Society Integration Foundation had opening of its new premises yesterday. Diena gives a very brief note about the opening. Chas and Latvijas Vestnesis provide more detailed information about the Foundation.

Lauku Avize

interviews Society Integration Foundation Council chairperson Ramona Umblija. She talks about the body of the Board: in her opinion national minorities are well represented at the Board. R.Umblija talks about the possible sources of funding and international donors are named as one of the main sources. She also gives her interpretation of the term integration – in her opinion the term is too politicised and it should also be understood as social integration and not only integration of national minorities. interviews Society Integration Foundation Council chairperson Ramona Umblija. She talks about the body of the Board: in her opinion national minorities are well represented at the Board. R.Umblija talks about the possible sources of funding and international donors are named as one of the main sources. She also gives her interpretation of the term “integration” – in her opinion the term is too politicised and it should also be understood as social integration and not only integration of national minorities.

Lauku Avize

interviews Naturalisation Board Head Eizenija Aldermane about the Public Awareness and Citizenship Promotion Campaign (PACPC). interviews Naturalisation Board Head Eizenija Aldermane about the Public Awareness and Citizenship Promotion Campaign (PACPC). Lauku AvizeLauku Avize journalist starts with criticism towards another event concerning integration issues in Latvia the media seminar The Media in Latvia – Integrated or Divided? claiming that one and the same persons with well known views talk about these issues therefore it is waste of time. When talking about PACPC the journalist asks You have to agree that you are under the influence of the OSCE to some extent?, E.Aldermane replies that she is neither under supervision of Mr.Semneby nor influenced by him if it were like this, you would see completely different Campaign. E.Aldermane explains what she understands with the term naturalisation, about non-citizens place in Latvia and influence and role of Russian mass media. journalist starts with criticism towards another event concerning integration issues in Latvia the media seminar “The Media in Latvia – Integrated or Divided?” claiming that “one and the same persons with well known views talk about these issues therefore it is waste of time”. When talking about PACPC the journalist asks “You have to agree that you are under the influence of the OSCE to some extent?”, E.Aldermane replies that she is neither under supervision of Mr.Semneby nor influenced by him “if it were like this, you would see completely different Campaign”. E.Aldermane explains what she understands with the term “naturalisation”, about non-citizens place in Latvia and influence and role of Russian mass media.

Lauku Avize

interviews Finnish ambassador to Latvia Kirsti Eskelinen about foreign policy of Finland, its place in todays Europe, Latvias place in Finlands foreign policy. interviews Finnish ambassador to Latvia Kirsti Eskelinen about foreign policy of Finland, its place in today’s Europe, Latvia’s place in Finland’s foreign policy.

Rigas Balss

writes about the possible closure of the OSCE Mission to Latvia. The politicians of ruling parties voice that further presence of the OSCE Mission to Latvia is the waste of OSCEs money. However, the opposition politicians disagree with that. FHRUL S.Dolgopolovs says that OSCE Mission to Latvia should continue its presence in Latvia, as well as he express his disappointment in the Society Integration Foundation saying it turned out that the Foundation can offer only fostering of culture and nothing else. writes about the possible closure of the OSCE Mission to Latvia. The politicians of ruling parties voice that further presence of the OSCE Mission to Latvia is “the waste of OSCE’s money”. However, the opposition politicians disagree with that. FHRUL S.Dolgopolovs says that OSCE Mission to Latvia should continue its presence in Latvia, as well as he express his disappointment in the Society Integration Foundation saying “it turned out that the Foundation can offer only fostering of culture and nothing else”. Latvian embassy to Sweden in co-operation with EC Delegation to Sweden will organise seminar “Integration of National Minorities in Latvia as Essential Aspect of Latvia’s Integration into the European Union” in Stockholm on 6 December.

Latvian embassy to Sweden in co-operation with EC Delegation to Sweden will organise seminar Integration of National Minorities in Latvia as Essential Aspect of Latvias Integration into the European Union in Stockholm on 6 December. Neatkariga

Vesti Segodnja

when informing about the visit of Director-General of European Commissions Enlargement Directorate Eneko Landaburu writes that Landaburu is concerned about national minority issues. The number of naturalised people is non-sufficient. Integration should be speeded up. But this is the job of the OSCE. when informing about the visit of Director-General of European Commission’s Enlargement Directorate Eneko Landaburu writes that Landaburu is “concerned about national minority issues. The number of naturalised people is non-sufficient. Integration should be speeded up. But this is the job of the OSCE”. Yesterday Saeima Education, Culture and Science Committee chairperson Dz. Abikis voiced heavy criticism towards left-wingers for agitating the Russians against education in the Latvian language. Evija Papule, Head of General Education Integration Department of the Ministry of Education and Science reported to the Saeima about the development of the transfer to bilingual education.

Yesterday Saeima Education, Culture and Science Committee chairperson Dz. Abikis voiced heavy criticism towards left-wingers for agitating the Russians against education in the Latvian language. Evija Papule, Head of General Education Integration Department of the Ministry of Education and Science reported to the Saeima about the development of the transfer to bilingual education. Vesti Segodnja, Chas

Vesti Segodnja

writes about the Society Integration Foundation. The newspaper ironically notes that non-citizens (their issues) provide jobs to the Latvians. The number of civil servants who deal with integration grows every day. And they are paid rather well. In their turn, FHRUL members M.Mitrafanovs and B.Cilevics reminded to the Foundation and Parliament that representatives of national minorities are not invited to take part at Foundations work. writes about the Society Integration Foundation. The newspaper ironically notes that “non-citizens (their issues) provide jobs to the Latvians. The number of civil servants who deal with integration grows every day. And they are paid rather well”. In their turn, FHRUL members M.Mitrafanovs and B.Cilevics reminded to the Foundation and Parliament that representatives of national minorities are not invited to take part at Foundation’s work. Yesterday President V.Vike-Freiberga met with Prime Minister Andris Berzins to discuss the need to protect the Latvian language. The officials announced that they both support the protection of the Latvian language and thinks that it should be the only state language, however, Latvian should be protected in such a way that it does not contradict to international norms and rights.

Yesterday President V.Vike-Freiberga met with Prime Minister Andris Berzins to discuss the need to protect the Latvian language. The officials announced that they both support the protection of the Latvian language and thinks that it should be the only state language, however, Latvian should be protected in such a way that it does not contradict to international norms and rights. Chas, Telegraf

Press Report

Press Report

“Latvia has undeniably done much in implementing the guidelines set by the Organisation for Security and Co-operation in Europe (OSCE), however, it is too hasty to speak about closing the mission in Latvia until a concrete decision is adopted”, LETA was told by the head of the OSCE mission to Latvia Peter Semneby. Semneby said that OSCE meeting will be held December 20 where he is going to report on Latvia, after that a decision will be adopted on whether the mission is to be closed or it must continue work.

Latvia has undeniably done much in implementing the guidelines set by the Organisation for Security and Co-operation in Europe (OSCE), however, it is too hasty to speak about closing the mission in Latvia until a concrete decision is adopted, LETA was told by the head of the OSCE mission to Latvia Peter Semneby. Semneby said that OSCE meeting will be held December 20 where he is going to report on Latvia, after that a decision will be adopted on whether the mission is to be closed or it must continue work. LETA

Diena

publishes the article Doesnt Latvia Want to Be in NATO? by Artis Pabriks, associated Professor at the University of Vidzeme. In the article he views Latvias stance towards language requirements for election candidates and that this stance, in his opinion, shows that Latvia does not want to join NATO. publishes the article “Doesn’t Latvia Want to Be in NATO?” by Artis Pabriks, associated Professor at the University of Vidzeme. In the article he views Latvia’s stance towards language requirements for election candidates and that this stance, in his opinion, shows that Latvia does not want to join NATO. Latvian foreign affairs minister I.Berzins informed that he has met with foreign ministers of numerous countries (Denmark, Norway) and representatives of the government during the OSCE meeting in Bucharest, and all of them have expressed understanding of Latvia's desire to close the mission.

Latvian foreign affairs minister I.Berzins informed that he has met with foreign ministers of numerous countries (Denmark, Norway) and representatives of the government during the OSCE meeting in Bucharest, and all of them have expressed understanding of Latvia's desire to close the mission. Latvijas Vestnesis

Yesterday the new U.S. Ambassador to Latvia Brian Carlson submitted his letter of credentials to President Vaira Vike-Freiberga. After submitting the letter of credentials, Carlson told that his work in Latvia will primarily concern co-operation in fight on international terrorism and promoting Latvia's integration into the European Union and NATO.

Yesterday the new U.S. Ambassador to Latvia Brian Carlson submitted his letter of credentials to President Vaira Vike-Freiberga. After submitting the letter of credentials, Carlson told that his work in Latvia will primarily concern co-operation in fight on international terrorism and promoting Latvia's integration into the European Union and NATO. Diena, Vesti Segodnja

The USA ambassador also met with Minister of Foreign Affairs I.Berzins. In the course of the meeting society integration issues were discussed and it was emphasised that the guidelines of the OSCE Mission are fulfilled and it should be closed.

The USA ambassador also met with Minister of Foreign Affairs I.Berzins. In the course of the meeting society integration issues were discussed and it was emphasised that the guidelines of the OSCE Mission are fulfilled and it should be closed. Latvijas Vestnesis

Latvia’s Way was allegedly blackmailed before the vote on next year’s budget. The leaders of Latvia’s Way were told by the People’s Party that in case LW does not back PP in the votes on granting state guarantees and allotting money for buying Saeima limousines, the premier could lose his chair.

Latvias Way was allegedly blackmailed before the vote on next years budget. The leaders of Latvias Way were told by the Peoples Party that in case LW does not back PP in the votes on granting state guarantees and allotting money for buying Saeima limousines, the premier could lose his chair. Neatkariga

Russian State Duma MP Boris Pastukhov, the head of the committee for the CIS and contacts with compatriots, said Tuesday at a news conference in Moscow that Russian-speaker rights are being violated in the fields of employment, citizenship and others. According to Pastukhov, in Latvia only 8,000 persons of a total of half a million non-citizens in this Baltic state "were able to naturalise" in nine months of this year but in neighbouring Estonia citizenship was granted to 3,500 out of 220,00 non-citizens seeking naturalisation

Russian State Duma MP Boris Pastukhov, the head of the committee for the CIS and contacts with compatriots, said Tuesday at a news conference in Moscow that Russian-speaker rights are being violated in the fields of employment, citizenship and others. According to Pastukhov, in Latvia only 8,000 persons of a total of half a million non-citizens in this Baltic state "were able to naturalise" in nine months of this year but in neighbouring Estonia citizenship was granted to 3,500 out of 220,00 non-citizens seeking naturalisation. Vesti Segodnja

Tomorrow the President is convening the working session for the experts in field of human rights and relevant international legislation. The main discussion subject will be the situation in the Latvian language legislation and rights of national minorities in the context of international agreements binding to Latvia. According to unofficial sources of

Tomorrow the President is convening the working session for the experts in field of human rights and relevant international legislation. The main discussion subject will be the situation in the Latvian language legislation and rights of national minorities in the context of international agreements binding to Latvia. According to unofficial sources of Vesti Segodnja the President decided to convene the meeting in order to learn whether she should be the one who proposes to amend the Laws on Elections.

Panorama Latvii

asks couple questions to Nils Muiznieks, Latvian Human Rights and Ethnic Studies Centre director, regarding the meeting. He thinks that there is a hope for positive changes in Latvias position towards language requirements provided for by the Laws on Election. The newspaper also writes that neither Latvian Human Rights Committee nor the ambassador of the OSCE was among the invited persons. Peter Semneby, OSCE Mission to Latvia ambassador, told that Latvias problems should be solved first of all by Latvian citizens themselves. I cannot judge what will be the contribution of this meeting or comment the possible solutions. Lets wait. asks couple questions to Nils Muiznieks, Latvian Human Rights and Ethnic Studies Centre director, regarding the meeting. He thinks that there is a hope for positive changes in Latvia’s position towards language requirements provided for by the Laws on Election. The newspaper also writes that neither Latvian Human Rights Committee nor the ambassador of the OSCE was among the invited persons. Peter Semneby, OSCE Mission to Latvia ambassador, told that “Latvia’s problems should be solved first of all by Latvian citizens themselves. I cannot judge what will be the contribution of this meeting or comment the possible solutions. Let’s wait”.

Vesti Segodnja

writes that Latvian foreign affairs minister I.Berzins praised the OSCE during his visit to Bucharest, however, the minister actively lobbied for the closure of the OSCE Mission to Latvia in political corridors. The newspaper looks into the mandate of the OSCE and considers that none of the tasks included in the mandate could threaten the image of Latvia. It writes, it is obvious that the authorities are cunning, in fact, the government does not have any particular interest in the issues concerning naturalisation… And their statement that OSCE Mission is an obstacle to Latvias membership to the EU and NATO – it is just one more myth produced by national domestic policy. writes that Latvian foreign affairs minister I.Berzins praised the OSCE during his visit to Bucharest, however, the minister actively lobbied for the closure of the OSCE Mission to Latvia in political corridors. The newspaper looks into the mandate of the OSCE and considers that none of the tasks included in the mandate could threaten the image of Latvia. It writes, “it is obvious that the authorities are cunning, in fact, the government does not have any particular interest in the issues concerning naturalisation… And their statement that OSCE Mission is an obstacle to Latvia’s membership to the EU and NATO – it is just one more myth produced by national domestic policy”. FF/LLNK has submitted to the Saeima proposal to amend the Law on Municipalities and introduce the amendments, which would provide for stricter language requirements regarding the working language at municipalities. “Our proposal is that it should be clearly stated that at municipalities all sittings, including the sittings of committees, commissions, press conferences and etc. should be exclusively in the state language”, says FF/LNNK member P.Tabuns. In his turn FHRUL MP B.Cilevics says that “these proposals are kind of small compensation to FF/LNNK for the amendments to the Statutes of the State Language Centre adopted by the Government”. The newspaper concludes, “In fact, this is the defeat of FF/LNNK. However, we should not become too happy. If the OSCE Mission is closed, it would give the green light to some radicals and the situation in the field of human rights get worse”.

FF/LLNK has submitted to the Saeima proposal to amend the Law on Municipalities and introduce the amendments, which would provide for stricter language requirements regarding the working language at municipalities. Our proposal is that it should be clearly stated that at municipalities all sittings, including the sittings of committees, commissions, press conferences and etc. should be exclusively in the state language, says FF/LNNK member P.Tabuns. In his turn FHRUL MP B.Cilevics says that these proposals are kind of small compensation to FF/LNNK for the amendments to the Statutes of the State Language Centre adopted by the Government. The newspaper concludes, In fact, this is the defeat of FF/LNNK. However, we should not become too happy. If the OSCE Mission is closed, it would give the green light to some radicals and the situation in the field of human rights get worse. Vesti Segodnja, Panorama Latvii

Chas publishes an editorial about the issue.

Chas publishes an editorial about the issue.

Latvijas Vestnesis

provides the printed version of President Vaira Vike-Freibergas interview for the National Radio. provides the printed version of President Vaira Vike-Freiberga’s interview for the National Radio. Journalist: Last week Russian foreign affairs minister made a statement that OSCE Missions to Latvia and Estonia still have lot to do regarding Russian-speakers in these countries and he asked to continue the activities of both Missions in these countries. As we know, Latvia and Estonia hope that Missions will be closed in December this year. You are convening the meeting of experts, advisors to harmonise international obligations with national interests in the field of state language policy.

Journalist: Last week Russian foreign affairs minister made a statement that OSCE Missions to Latvia and Estonia still have lot to do regarding Russian-speakers in these countries and he asked to continue the activities of both Missions in these countries. As we know, Latvia and Estonia hope that Missions will be closed in December this year. You are convening the meeting of experts, advisors to harmonise international obligations with national interests in the field of state language policy.

President: The official stance of Latvia is that we have had a very successful co-operation with the Mission, and I think that we could even be named as the example for other countries how a country shall co-operate with missions and gradually introduce amendments to its legislation to bring the country from totalitarian regime, which we had here in Soviet times, to the level when we correspond to any international requirements and criteria in the field of human rights in almost no time. We consider our work a success story, and the peak point of this success is that we can see the closure of the Mission, of course, continuing the dialogue with the OSCE High Commissioner, we are not absolutely perfect. We have definitely done all what was required from us. I think, perfection, from our own point of view, is that we want to strengthen all democratic institutions in our country, at the same time it is clear that we want to strengthen the rights of our people and our language. Therefore, the statement of Mr.Ivanov is inappropriate from the following aspect: it is not in the tasks of this organisation. We ourselves are aware of these issues. But we want to be on the very safe side that considerations regarding human rights would not contradict with the basic policy of our country, which is that the Latvian language is the only official and state language, the only language of the debates in the Saeima, it is absolutely clear that we have to ensure that. The question is whether our legislation and the Constitution guarantee that; my opinion is that they do. But at the same time we do not want to make any requirements which place our citizens in different categories”.

President: The official stance of Latvia is that we have had a very successful co-operation with the Mission, and I think that we could even be named as the example for other countries how a country shall co-operate with missions and gradually introduce amendments to its legislation to bring the country from totalitarian regime, which we had here in Soviet times, to the level when we correspond to any international requirements and criteria in the field of human rights in almost no time. We consider our work a success story, and the peak point of this success is that we can see the closure of the Mission, of course, continuing the dialogue with the OSCE High Commissioner, we are not absolutely perfect. We have definitely done all what was required from us. I think, perfection, from our own point of view, is that we want to strengthen all democratic institutions in our country, at the same time it is clear that we want to strengthen the rights of our people and our language. Therefore, the statement of Mr.Ivanov is inappropriate from the following aspect: it is not in the tasks of this organisation. We ourselves are aware of these issues. But we want to be on the very safe side that considerations regarding human rights would not contradict with the basic policy of our country, which is that the Latvian language is the only official and state language, the only language of the debates in the Saeima, it is absolutely clear that we have to ensure that. The question is whether our legislation and the Constitution guarantee that; my opinion is that they do. But at the same time we do not want to make any requirements which place our citizens in different categories.