Press Report

Press Report

Diena

publishes an analytical article on the relations between Latvia and Russia written by the member of USA programme Fulbright A.Gutmanis. In the authors opinion Russia is not a military threat to Latvia anymore, however, a dialogue on a political level is only apparent. About Russias attitude toward its compatriots in the Baltic countries the author writes Up till now Russia has not fostered the integration of Russians into Latvian society. Russia has not identified itself with the positive evaluation of public integration in Latvia given by the OSCE. Russia preserves its choice to use Latvia as an instrument in its policy. A.Gutmanis admits the attitude of the Latvian state changes toward Russians in Latvia and tolerance of society is high, which gives a privilege to be slow in improving a dialogue with national minorities. publishes an analytical article on the relations between Latvia and Russia written by the member of USA programme Fulbright A.Gutmanis. In the author’s opinion Russia is not a military threat to Latvia anymore, however, a dialogue on a political level is only apparent. About Russia’s attitude toward its compatriots in the Baltic countries the author writes “Up till now Russia has not fostered the integration of Russians into Latvian society. Russia has not identified itself with the positive evaluation of public integration in Latvia given by the OSCE. Russia preserves its choice to use Latvia as an instrument in its policy”. A.Gutmanis admits “the attitude of the Latvian state changes toward Russians in Latvia and tolerance of society is high, which gives a privilege to be slow in improving a dialogue with national minorities.” Thursday Latvian President V. Vike-Freiberga met with the teachers of the Latvian language who teach at Russian schools. The President and teachers together examined the written examination works in the Latvian language of 12 graders. The newspaper states that this venue has a political meaning because it is the first year when 12 graders of non-Latvian schools are able to use the results of the centralised examination in the state language for naturalisation purposes. And secondly, “the President demonstrated that she partly fulfils promises given to her Russian colleague at the meeting in Alps”.

Thursday Latvian President V. Vike-Freiberga met with the teachers of the Latvian language who teach at Russian schools. The President and teachers together examined the written examination works in the Latvian language of 12 graders. The newspaper states that this venue has a political meaning because it is the first year when 12 graders of non-Latvian schools are able to use the results of the centralised examination in the state language for naturalisation purposes. And secondly, the President demonstrated that she partly fulfils promises given to her Russian colleague at the meeting in Alps. Vesti Segodnja

 Press Report

Press Report

The European Court of Human Rights has accepted for hearing the complaint by a former banker, currently on trial in Latvia for large-scale embezzlement, and will now offer the Latvian government and the complainant to try to agree on a settlement.

The European Court of Human Rights has accepted for hearing the complaint by a former banker, currently on trial in Latvia for large-scale embezzlement, and will now offer the Latvian government and the complainant to try to agree on a settlement.

The court found the complaint by Alexander Lavent, the former head of Banka Baltija, as substantiated, saying that, among other things, his rights to independent and unbiased trial as well as to be presume innocent until proven guilty had been violated..

The court found the complaint by Alexander Lavent, the former head of Banka Baltija, as substantiated, saying that, among other things, his rights to independent and unbiased trial as well as to be presume innocent until proven guilty had been violated.. Diena, Neatkariga, Vesti Segodnja, Chas, Respublika

Thursday Russia took over the chairmanship in the Council of the Baltic Sea States and official Moscow has set two priorities for its activities – first, provide support to the region of Kaliningrad, and second, deal with the situation of Russian-speakers in the Baltic Countries.

Thursday Russia took over the chairmanship in the Council of the Baltic Sea States and official Moscow has set two priorities for its activities – first, provide support to the region of Kaliningrad, and second, deal with the situation of Russian-speakers in the Baltic Countries. Vesti Segodnja reminds that one of the former CBSS commissioners Ole Espersen was very active in protecting the rights of national minorities in Latvia and that was the reason for his dismissal from the post. His successor is Helen Degn who was the representative of Denmark in the OSCE for years and it is possible, that she will manage that the decision to expend the mandate of the OSCE Mission in Riga is taken.

According to the survey carried out by Russian Independent Institute of Social and National Problems and published by Russia’s

According to the survey carried out by Russian Independent Institute of Social and National Problems and published by Russias Nezavisimaja Gazeta a half of Russian experts consider that the Baltic States are unfriendly towards Russia, the same number of experts also see the States and Afghanistan unfriendly in relations with Russia. 36,2% of the surveyed are against the expansion of NATO. Neatkariga.

Vesti Segodnja

publishes an article about the possibilities for people residing in Latvia who want to return to their ethnic motherland Russia. According to the Federal Migration Department to Latvia, every year they move to Russia about one and a half thousand people. The article tells what assistance and information they are entitled to receive. publishes an article about the possibilities for people residing in Latvia who want to return to their ethnic motherland Russia. According to the Federal Migration Department to Latvia, every year they move to Russia about one and a half thousand people. The article tells what assistance and information they are entitled to receive.  

Press Report

Diena

writes about the problems which Russian speaking people face when learning the Latvian language. The lack of Latvian language environment and the lack of language courses free of charge are named as the main problems. The newspaper also gives the opinion of the Latvian Language Institute professor I.Druviete on the language issues. I.Druviete says that the ideal language model is when people speak many languages and to achieve that it is necessary to have strong legislation for the language and good education system. She also emphasised that visual usage of the language is very important and fosters language learning. The most difficult situation regarding language matters is in big cities – for example, in Daugavpils even at some big public events the Latvian language is not spoken. However, according to the data 74% young people who belong to other nationalities know the Latvian language well. Because of the lack of information or political manipulations, non-Latvians fear the time when secondary education for non-Latvians will be provided only in the state language. The possible solutions could be that 60% of the subjects are taught in the state language, as it is in Estonia, or a special position – an assistant of a teacher – which observes if students can follow and assists them if necessary is introduced.

Lauku Avize

interviews Russian ambassador to Latvia I. Studennikov. The ambassador sees positive although slow changes after the meeting of the presidents – the countries pay more attention to solving social issues, such as pension system, recognition of diplomas of another state, etc. I.Studennikov states that although Latvian foreign minister I.Berzins has not set relations with Russia as a priority in Latvias foreign policy, the Baltic states will always be the priority for Russia. Today 9 graders of non-Latvians schools have the exam in the Latvian language, however, the Government still has not decided if the results of school examination can be used for naturalisation purposes. The decision will be taken today and according to unofficial information it will be in the advantage for students.

Today 9 graders of non-Latvians schools have the exam in the Latvian language, however, the Government still has not decided if the results of school examination can be used for naturalisation purposes. The decision will be taken today and according to unofficial information it will be in the advantage for students. Chas

Latvian Minister of Foreign Affairs I. Berzins believes that the Irish referendum, refusing the Nice treaty on European Union structural reform, could slow the EU expansion process. Minister Berzins emphasised that the Irish referendum, in which only 33 percent of voters took part, being 53 percent against expansion, was a vote against the government and that the result was the consequence of Irish internal politics.

Latvian Minister of Foreign Affairs I. Berzins believes that the Irish referendum, refusing the Nice treaty on European Union structural reform, could slow the EU expansion process. Minister Berzins emphasised that the Irish referendum, in which only 33 percent of voters took part, being 53 percent against expansion, was a vote against the government and that the result was the consequence of Irish internal politics. Diena, Chas

Deputy Head of Russia’s State Duma International Affairs K.Kosachov gives his opinion on Russian Latvian relations. He voices that Russia has to define its foreign policy for each Baltic country individually and in regard to Latvia the main issue is the vast number of non-citizens. K.Kosachov says that if the EU had the same stance as Russia does Riga had given citizenship to everybody, however, he says that during last months the EU has changed its position and has started to make pressing on official Riga. Another issue, which has to be dealt with in order to have good relations between the countries, is NATO enlargement.

Deputy Head of Russias State Duma International Affairs K.Kosachov gives his opinion on Russian Latvian relations. He voices that Russia has to define its foreign policy for each Baltic country individually and in regard to Latvia the main issue is the vast number of non-citizens. K.Kosachov says that if the EU had the same stance as Russia does Riga had given citizenship to everybody, however, he says that during last months the EU has changed its position and has started to make pressing on official Riga. Another issue, which has to be dealt with in order to have good relations between the countries, is NATO enlargement. Vesti Segodnja

The Latvian government regulations about reducing the naturalisation fee is an important pre-condition for closing of the Organisation for Security and Co-operation in Europe (OSCE) mission in Latvia already this year, the Latvian foreign minister said. Foreign Minister Indulis Berzins told BNS he was certain that OSCE missions in both Latvia and Estonia will be closed simultaneously at the end of this year. "For Latvia the closing of the OSCE mission will be like breaking a bottle of champagne against the hull of a new ship about to be put into sea," said the minister. The OSCE mission closing will be a culmination of continued and successful efforts, said Berzins. All major tasks have been carried out, only the National Human Rights Office (NHRO) director had to be appointed yet. On June 14 the OSCE Permanent Council forum will decide about extending the mandate for the OSCE mission in Latvia which is to expire June 30.

The Latvian government regulations about reducing the naturalisation fee is an important pre-condition for closing of the Organisation for Security and Co-operation in Europe (OSCE) mission in Latvia already this year, the Latvian foreign minister said. Foreign Minister Indulis Berzins told BNS he was certain that OSCE missions in both Latvia and Estonia will be closed simultaneously at the end of this year. "For Latvia the closing of the OSCE mission will be like breaking a bottle of champagne against the hull of a new ship about to be put into sea," said the minister. The OSCE mission closing will be a culmination of continued and successful efforts, said Berzins. All major tasks have been carried out, only the National Human Rights Office (NHRO) director had to be appointed yet. On June 14 the OSCE Permanent Council forum will decide about extending the mandate for the OSCE mission in Latvia which is to expire June 30. BNS, Vesti Segodnja

Press Report

Press Report

During the last months Latvian authorities have started turbulent activities pretending to integrate non-citizens. But the real goal of this action is not so much integration but to mange to close the OSCE Mission to Latvia. As Prime Minister A.Berzins said yesterday at the meeting with journalists, the government hoped the Mission to be closed at the end of this year. Thus the authorities would kill two birds with one stone – there will be no place for unsatisfied people to come with their complains and persuade EU that everything is OK with human rights in Latvia. By closing of this Mission they will be able to present it as acknowledgement by this important human rights organization the fact of the progress made by Latvia in the human rights field. But all the latest activities are just cosmetic improvements, sooner or later the authorities will have to agree to “0” version that was the demand of the Russian speakers from the very beginning.

During the last months Latvian authorities have started turbulent activities pretending to integrate non-citizens. But the real goal of this action is not so much integration but to mange to close the OSCE Mission to Latvia. As Prime Minister A.Berzins said yesterday at the meeting with journalists, the government hoped the Mission to be closed at the end of this year. Thus the authorities would kill two birds with one stone – there will be no place for unsatisfied people to come with their complains and persuade EU that everything is OK with human rights in Latvia. By closing of this Mission they will be able to present it as acknowledgement by this important human rights organization the fact of the progress made by Latvia in the human rights field. But all the latest activities are just cosmetic improvements, sooner or later the authorities will have to agree to 0 version that was the demand of the Russian speakers from the very beginning. Vesti Segodnya

The Latvian parliament may not approve of re-appointing the Latvian Human Rights Office (HRO) leader, Olafs Bruvers, in a vote on Thursday. The parliament's center People's Party faction will be voting against Bruvers' candidacy, while center Latvian Way and the social democrats are apparently open to choice on the vote. The People's Party faction has claimed that they decided to vote against approving Bruvers for another term at the HRO, as the parliament members doubt his ability to improve anything in the work of the human rights office. Nevertheless, the party has no other candidate for now. The Latvian Way faction chairperson Kristiana Libane claimed that the faction's parliament members have quite differed opinions on the issue and that the voting will take place to their own discretion.

The Latvian parliament may not approve of re-appointing the Latvian Human Rights Office (HRO) leader, Olafs Bruvers, in a vote on Thursday. The parliament's center People's Party faction will be voting against Bruvers' candidacy, while center Latvian Way and the social democrats are apparently open to choice on the vote. The People's Party faction has claimed that they decided to vote against approving Bruvers for another term at the HRO, as the parliament members doubt his ability to improve anything in the work of the human rights office. Nevertheless, the party has no other candidate for now. The Latvian Way faction chairperson Kristiana Libane claimed that the faction's parliament members have quite differed opinions on the issue and that the voting will take place to their own discretion. BNS

The first interactive CD-ROM containing information about Soviet atrocities in Latvia following its occupation in 1940 has been released in Latvia. The CD-ROM dealing with Soviet crimes against humanity, the Latvian people and the Latvian state during the period of repression following Latvia's occupation by the Soviet Union was Wednesday presented in the Occupation Museum in the Latvian capital Riga.

The first interactive CD-ROM containing information about Soviet atrocities in Latvia following its occupation in 1940 has been released in Latvia. The CD-ROM dealing with Soviet crimes against humanity, the Latvian people and the Latvian state during the period of repression following Latvia's occupation by the Soviet Union was Wednesday presented in the Occupation Museum in the Latvian capital Riga. BNS

Latvian foreign minister next week will head for a one day working visit in the Netherlands to meet Dutch lawmakers and European affairs state minister as well as join discussions with business and academic people, a spokeswoman said. On agenda of Indulis Berzins visit on June 13 will be issues like bilateral relations between the two countries as well as European Union and NATO enlargement, said Liga Bergmane.

BNS After public reaction to the objections of human rights experts to the work of Human Rights Office, People’s Party has decided to vote against repeated appointing O.Bruveris, current Office head to this position but Latvian Way has decided for free vote, giving as the reason the doubt that O.Bruveris could carry out foreign activities planned for the Office. It shows that Bruvers could not receive support from whole coalition because only FF/LNNK and opposition parties Social Democrats and For Human Rights in United Latvia will vote for him.

After public reaction to the objections of human rights experts to the work of Human Rights Office, Peoples Party has decided to vote against repeated appointing O.Bruveris, current Office head to this position but Latvian Way has decided for free vote, giving as the reason the doubt that O.Bruveris could carry out foreign activities planned for the Office. It shows that Bruvers could not receive support from whole coalition because only FF/LNNK and opposition parties Social Democrats and For Human Rights in United Latvia will vote for him. Diena, Respublika

Jauna Avize titles this information “Parties are not interested in the post of Bruvers”

Jauna Avize titles this information Parties are not interested in the post of Bruvers

Russia as the chairing state of the BSSC plans to put for discussions a question on the situation of Russian speakers in Latvia and Estonia. Sources of information in Moscow stated that Moscow did not plan to raise this issue “in spirit of confrontation” but would use the means being the Chairman.

Russia as the chairing state of the BSSC plans to put for discussions a question on the situation of Russian speakers in Latvia and Estonia. Sources of information in Moscow stated that Moscow did not plan to raise this issue in spirit of confrontation but would use the means being the Chairman. Neatkariga

Chas

adds that former Commissioner on Democratic Institutions and Human Rights of CBSS O.Espersen had been tougher concerning non-citizen issues and more critical and open than his colleagues in other international organizations. And it cost him his post. His successor H.Daign now has a reduced title comparing to O.Espersen; she is the Commissioner on Democratic Development. A court in eastern Latvian town Wednesday sent four National Bolsheviks from Russia to seven months confinement for illegal entry into Latvia. The three were detained last November as they illegally crossed into Latvia, jumping off St. Petersburg -Kaliningrad train. Three of them were sentenced to seven month in jail and one of them in juvenile penitentiary. They will be expelled from Latvia after they serve their sentence.

A court in eastern Latvian town Wednesday sent four National Bolsheviks from Russia to seven months confinement for illegal entry into Latvia. The three were detained last November as they illegally crossed into Latvia, jumping off St. Petersburg -Kaliningrad train. Three of them were sentenced to seven month in jail and one of them in juvenile penitentiary. They will be expelled from Latvia after they serve their sentence. BNS

Last weekend in Liepaja took place seminar “Language policy in urban environment” organized by the Baltic Project of European Minorities Affairs Center. The goal of the seminar was to discuss language functions in large cities as well as exchange opinions on language policy in Europe Region countries.

Last weekend in Liepaja took place seminar Language policy in urban environment organized by the Baltic Project of European Minorities Affairs Center. The goal of the seminar was to discuss language functions in large cities as well as exchange opinions on language policy in Europe Region countries. Jauna Avize

Newspaper

Newspaper Lauku Avize interviewed the UN Representative to Latvia G.Veiss about the process of Latvia joining EU and the problems on this road. When asked about Russias pressure on EU as if for human rights violations in Latvia, the Ambassador answered that it was not in the interests of Russia itself. It is clear that EU wants good relations with Russia and wants to further political and economic stability there and it is important for Latvia to have Russia as a strong and stable neighbor. Answering to the question about the statement of N.Muiznieks about national discrimination in Latvia G.Veiss said that he had discussed these issues with N.Muiznieks and it was Muizniekss duty to point out on the existing problems, but the Ambassador thought that newspaper had reflected only one part of the things Muiznieks said. The presented information was partial. Of course, N.Muiznieks may express his opinion, and the Ambassador does not think that the situation with non-citizens is ideal, but it had changed radically during the last years. And it only serves to increase stability in this country. He would be glad if the Latvian government would do more for non-citizens.

Yesterday Russian newspaper “Nezavisimaya Gazeta wrote that if K.Kalejs, accused for WW II crimes, were extradited to Latvia, his court hearing would raise a wave of anti Russian mood in the society and would lead to new processes against former KGB officers.

Yesterday Russian newspaper Nezavisimaya Gazeta wrote that if K.Kalejs, accused for WW II crimes, were extradited to Latvia, his court hearing would raise a wave of anti Russian mood in the society and would lead to new processes against former KGB officers. Lauku Avize

The question is there as need for Riga City to have a Council on Non-citizen Affairs like in Vespils has been discussed for a long time. Now the Riga City Mayor G.Bojars spoke in favor of this idea. In an interview to the Latvian Radio hi supported this idea, pointing out that the Council should deal not only with of non-citizen issues as a separate social group but problems of integration in general. Chas

The question is there as need for Riga City to have a Council on Non-citizen Affairs like in Vespils has been discussed for a long time. Now the Riga City Mayor G.Bojars spoke in favor of this idea. In an interview to the Latvian Radio hi supported this idea, pointing out that the Council should deal not only with of non-citizen issues as a separate social group but problems of integration in general. Chas

Just the Cabinet of Ministers postponed consideration the regulations on centralized state language exams for 9th graders to be considered as a naturalization test, the Parliamentary Education, Culture and Science Commission got worried – did not spoil this good idea. One should rejoice for this step of Latvian deputies to make the life of students more comfortable, but the motive for it was just the opposite – the level of the state language knowledge should be constantly increased.

Just the Cabinet of Ministers postponed consideration the regulations on centralized state language exams for 9th graders to be considered as a naturalization test, the Parliamentary Education, Culture and Science Commission got worried – did not spoil this good idea. One should rejoice for this step of Latvian deputies to make the life of students more comfortable, but the motive for it was just the opposite – the level of the state language knowledge should be constantly increased. Chas

Little competence, no control, overlapping of functions of state officials have raised a discussion on introducing Ombudsman institution in Latvia. The discussion was raised up by the Office of the State President that received too many complaints from state residents. Therefore with the Office was established a working group to work on the Ombudsman project. The opponents of the new idea say that such an institution already exists – Human Rights Office although it supervised only human rights issues therefore its efficiency should be strengthened by widening its authority charging it to consider complaints on state administration. It is planned that Ombudsman is a publicly respected, exact person nominated by the President and approved by the Saeima for 5 years. One of the major arguments for defenders of Ombudsman idea is that this institution is established by grounding it on the Human Rights Office. Similar idea is proposed also by UN and OSCE experts’ working group, only under one condition – original strengthening of Human Rights Office. But some are concerned whether “grounding it on the Human Rights Office” would not mean complete destroying of the created system. UN and OSCE experts point out that the Latvian human rights system is disintegrated and its functions overlap. Latvian Child Rights Protection Center Director I.Ielite said that it would not be so if the Human Rights Office worked and would not redirect to us people with complains. In addition due to conflicts in the present Human Rights Office administration they lost foreign financing and have to survive with 90 000 Ls from the state budget. This might be considered as an important obstacle to quality working. And it does not look like that the state could increase financing for the office.

Little competence, no control, overlapping of functions of state officials have raised a discussion on introducing Ombudsman institution in Latvia. The discussion was raised up by the Office of the State President that received too many complaints from state residents. Therefore with the Office was established a working group to work on the Ombudsman project. The opponents of the new idea say that such an institution already exists – Human Rights Office although it supervised only human rights issues therefore its efficiency should be strengthened by widening its authority charging it to consider complaints on state administration. It is planned that Ombudsman is a publicly respected, exact person nominated by the President and approved by the Saeima for 5 years. One of the major arguments for defenders of Ombudsman idea is that this institution is established by grounding it on the Human Rights Office. Similar idea is proposed also by UN and OSCE experts working group, only under one condition – original strengthening of Human Rights Office. But some are concerned whether grounding it on the Human Rights Office would not mean complete destroying of the created system. UN and OSCE experts point out that the Latvian human rights system is disintegrated and its functions overlap. Latvian Child Rights Protection Center Director I.Ielite said that it would not be so if the Human Rights Office worked and would not redirect to us people with complains. In addition due to conflicts in the present Human Rights Office administration they lost foreign financing and have to survive with 90 000 Ls from the state budget. This might be considered as an important obstacle to quality working. And it does not look like that the state could increase financing for the office. Diena

Press Report

Press Report

After the statements of Latvian Human Rights and Ethnic Studies Center Director N.Muiznieks about national discrimination in Latvia the newspaper

After the statements of Latvian Human Rights and Ethnic Studies Center Director N.Muiznieks about national discrimination in Latvia the newspaper Lauku Avize (02.06.01) interviewed several deputies about this. K.Leiskalns (Latvian Way) thinks that the fact that N.Muiznieks was raised as a national minority representative in the USA had influenced his thinking and now he saw discrimination everywhere. Saeima Human rights Committee Head A.Seiksts said that Mr.Muiznieks just lacked Latvian vision in its historical context and poverty was not only the deal of Russian speakers. What concerns the suggestion to grant the Russian language the status of the state language, A.Seiksts said that Muiznieks was running ahead of time. It might be possible when this generation was gone. N.Rudevis (Latvian Way, Romany himself) assured that there was no national discrimination in Latvia. J.Dobelis suggested to look into the list of 150 millionaires of Latvia – most of them were non-Latvians. And it is typical for N.Muiznieks to speak without any deep analysis. … It seems that he says what somebody needs. J.Urbanovics (For Human Rights in United Latvia) explains that N.Muizniekss statements were based on a scientific research and he agreed to them. It is true that among poor people are Russian speakers who could not adapt to the new situation. But J.Urbanovics does not want to come to any tragic conclusions because there are no states without any discrimination. A.Klementjev (For Human Rights in United Latvia) agrees that discrimination exists because laws are such that it is more difficult for a Russian and non-citizen to get something, e.g. to privatize a land plot.

Some time ago President V.Vike-Freiberga announced that two things should be done in favor of non-citizens: first to ease the process of taking the state language proficiency test by considering the 9th grade graduation state language test as a naturalization examination, and second – to decrease the amount of naturalization state fee. The officials did the first thing immediately and now intend through an urgent procedure to fulfil the second suggestion. Ministry of Justice has submitted to the Cabinet of Ministers a new draft regulation “On state fee for submitting a naturalization application” where it is envisaged to establish the amount of 20 Ls instead of former 30 Ls. Although the institution submitting it is the Ministry of Justice but the real author of it the Naturalization Board. The Head of Naturalization Board Juridical Department V.Rutkovskis explained it was done taking into consideration the real life - people were not able to pay the whole sum. -MFA Press Secretary L.Bergmane said that Latvian MFA supported this step. The draft is also agreed with the Ministry of Education and Science but the Ministry of Finances that has to loose quite a sum due to these amendments, has not given its answer.

Some time ago President V.Vike-Freiberga announced that two things should be done in favor of non-citizens: first to ease the process of taking the state language proficiency test by considering the 9th grade graduation state language test as a naturalization examination, and second – to decrease the amount of naturalization state fee. The officials did the first thing immediately and now intend through an urgent procedure to fulfil the second suggestion. Ministry of Justice has submitted to the Cabinet of Ministers a new draft regulation On state fee for submitting a naturalization application where it is envisaged to establish the amount of 20 Ls instead of former 30 Ls. Although the institution submitting it is the Ministry of Justice but the real author of it the Naturalization Board. The Head of Naturalization Board Juridical Department V.Rutkovskis explained it was done taking into consideration the real life - people were not able to pay the whole sum. -MFA Press Secretary L.Bergmane said that Latvian MFA supported this step. The draft is also agreed with the Ministry of Education and Science but the Ministry of Finances that has to loose quite a sum due to these amendments, has not given its answer. Lauku Avize (05.06.01)

Next week in Latvia is set to see a number of events commemorating the 60th anniversary of the 1941 Soviet deportations. Latvian Minister of Culture Karina Petersone said at a press conference on Tuesday that events would take place not only on June 14, the day of remembrance, but also throughout the week in order to remember the "tragic event in the history of our people."

BNS The Riga City Council has finally completed appointing the council's office Tuesday by electing the second deputy mayor, three months after the elections. Inese Vaidere, council member from the center-right party For Fatherland and Freedom (FF)/LNNK party was elected as the second deputy Riga Council chairman by a majority of 34 votes in the 60-strong council. Vaidere will be responsible for social, utility and economic issues.

The Riga City Council has finally completed appointing the council's office Tuesday by electing the second deputy mayor, three months after the elections. Inese Vaidere, council member from the center-right party For Fatherland and Freedom (FF)/LNNK party was elected as the second deputy Riga Council chairman by a majority of 34 votes in the 60-strong council. Vaidere will be responsible for social, utility and economic issues. BNS, Diena, Neatkariga, Jauna Avize, Chas, Respublika, Panorama Latvii

A.Brauna in

A.Brauna in Diena editorial writes that some energetic people have started to advertise the idea on introducing Ombudsman institution in Latvia not noticing that this new idea has been implemented long time ago. It is just have a different name – Human Rights Office but in its functions it even exceeds the classical Ombudsman. And, if this institution is currently not effective in protection of public interests, all things should be done to make it such but not to establish a new institution.

The state made a step towards the applicants for naturalization, especially to specific groups: pensioners, students and handicapped people by reducing the naturalization fee. The basic fee now is 20 Ls.

The state made a step towards the applicants for naturalization, especially to specific groups: pensioners, students and handicapped people by reducing the naturalization fee. The basic fee now is 20 Ls. Diena, Jauna Avize, Chas, Respublika

A Latvian parliamentary committee will ask the government to introduce obligatory centralized state language examination for non-Latvian students of junior high schools in order to strengthen the position of the Latvian language in the country. The parliamentary committee for education, culture and science at the meeting Wednesday also urged the government to turn attention to increasing number of junior high students relieved from taking exams. Committee chairman Dzintars Abikis said that the state language positions had to be strengthened in Latvia therefore the government should find the way to introduce already next year the obligatory centralized Latvian language exam for graduates of non-Latvian junior high schools. This exam would serve as a proof of state language proficiency by these youngsters. The Education Contents and Examination Center head Marcis Krastins said it will hardly be possible to organize the centralized Latvian language exam for non-Latvian junior high students next year as the move would require extra costs of 20,000 lats (USD 31,000). BNS

A Latvian parliamentary committee will ask the government to introduce obligatory centralized state language examination for non-Latvian students of junior high schools in order to strengthen the position of the Latvian language in the country. The parliamentary committee for education, culture and science at the meeting Wednesday also urged the government to turn attention to increasing number of junior high students relieved from taking exams. Committee chairman Dzintars Abikis said that the state language positions had to be strengthened in Latvia therefore the government should find the way to introduce already next year the obligatory centralized Latvian language exam for graduates of non-Latvian junior high schools. This exam would serve as a proof of state language proficiency by these youngsters. The Education Contents and Examination Center head Marcis Krastins said it will hardly be possible to organize the centralized Latvian language exam for non-Latvian junior high students next year as the move would require extra costs of 20,000 lats (USD 31,000). BNS

Some schools that are under supervision of Ministry of Welfare, Culture and Agriculture were dissatisfied the proposal discussed at the Saeima in the second reading within two years to bring all higher and secondary vocational schools under supervision of the Ministry of Education and Science. This idea is carried out without any proper public discussion.

Some schools that are under supervision of Ministry of Welfare, Culture and Agriculture were dissatisfied the proposal discussed at the Saeima in the second reading within two years to bring all higher and secondary vocational schools under supervision of the Ministry of Education and Science. This idea is carried out without any proper public discussion. Diena

Riga City Mayor J.Bojars thinks that it is not useful to establish a Non-citizen Consultative Council within the Riga City Council but a Public Integration Council. Mr.Bojars considers that public should not be divided into citizens and non-citizens. “We have to take care for all the society, not just for non-citizens.”

Riga City Mayor J.Bojars thinks that it is not useful to establish a Non-citizen Consultative Council within the Riga City Council but a Public Integration Council. Mr.Bojars considers that public should not be divided into citizens and non-citizens. We have to take care for all the society, not just for non-citizens. Rigas Balss

Chairman of Riga City Council faction For Human Rights in United Latvia L.Kurdjumov sent a letter to the State Language Center to linger a repeated language proficiency test for those faction deputies who were accused of not knowing the language. Deputy Director of State Language Center A.Timuska called this letter “a letter for letter’s sake”.

Chairman of Riga City Council faction For Human Rights in United Latvia L.Kurdjumov sent a letter to the State Language Center to linger a repeated language proficiency test for those faction deputies who were accused of not knowing the language. Deputy Director of State Language Center A.Timuska called this letter a letter for letters sake. Rigas Balss

According to statistical data the number of non-citizens in Latvia reduces for 3000 every month; 1800 of them die, 1200 - naturalize. After ten years this problem would disappear itself. Bur specialists acknowledge that “thanks” to the state national policy the Russian speaking population of Latvia increases the stratum of declassed elements. Latvian Human Rights and Ethnic Studies Center Director N.Muiznieks after analyzing the latest data came to a conclusion that public integration did not favor Latvian society. He is worried about the situation because majority of changes had turned to be negative. E.g. within two years has increased the number of those Russian speakers who support the idea of two state languages, also has increased the number of those non-citizens who can not find a job where they have to know the state language and they do not feel comfortable in Latvia. Even fewer non-citizens think that they should know the Latvian language. When asked about any positive changes, N.Muznieks answered that judging from the speed of naturalization there were none.

According to statistical data the number of non-citizens in Latvia reduces for 3000 every month; 1800 of them die, 1200 - naturalize. After ten years this problem would disappear itself. Bur specialists acknowledge that thanks to the state national policy the Russian speaking population of Latvia increases the stratum of declassed elements. Latvian Human Rights and Ethnic Studies Center Director N.Muiznieks after analyzing the latest data came to a conclusion that public integration did not favor Latvian society. He is worried about the situation because majority of changes had turned to be negative. E.g. within two years has increased the number of those Russian speakers who support the idea of two state languages, also has increased the number of those non-citizens who can not find a job where they have to know the state language and they do not feel comfortable in Latvia. Even fewer non-citizens think that they should know the Latvian language. When asked about any positive changes, N.Muznieks answered that judging from the speed of naturalization there were none. Rigas Balss

The Russian version of the newspaper

Rigas Balss interviewed the Head of the State Language Center Dz.Hirsa about the situation of the Latvian language. Ms.Hirsa said that the Latvian language should be dominating, but Article 21 of the State language law permits entrepreneurs to make signs in some other language. The Center may prove that thus they violate legitimate public interests but it may be achieved only by proving it. The previous law was more logical. Now a private businessman may argue, and an inspector has to prove that the Latvian language should be used. It seems obvious that employees service sector have to know the state language on the second level, and managers on the third level. Everybody agreed to it, but now inspectors sometimes have to prove that a shop assistant has to know the language. The statements on the new Riga City Council deputies: Now we are the masters of this City make Centers people to prick up their ears and to wonder about the possible changes.

Press Report

Press Report

The ruling coalition council decided on Monday not to impose any punishment on their coalition partner Fatherland and Freedom/LNNK party over violating a coalition agreement while voting on amendments to the pension law proposed by the opposition, because FF/LNNK pledged to stick by the coalition agreement in the future. Prime Minister Andris Berzins told BNS the coalition's task is not to punish anybody but find out "what's going on". Explaining why the New faction was kicked out of the government for a similar violations, the premier said the New faction violated the coalition agreement over 20 times in two months while the violations by FF/LNNK "has incidental nature".

The ruling coalition council decided on Monday not to impose any punishment on their coalition partner Fatherland and Freedom/LNNK party over violating a coalition agreement while voting on amendments to the pension law proposed by the opposition, because FF/LNNK pledged to stick by the coalition agreement in the future. Prime Minister Andris Berzins told BNS the coalition's task is not to punish anybody but find out "what's going on". Explaining why the New faction was kicked out of the government for a similar violations, the premier said the New faction violated the coalition agreement over 20 times in two months while the violations by FF/LNNK "has incidental nature". BNS, Diena, Neatkariga, Jauna Avize

Latvia's top officials Monday joined opening of the Jewish community library, presentation of Elie Wiesel's book "Night" and opening of the third reunion of Jews residing outside Latvia but having links to this Baltic country. Latvian President Vaira Vike-Freiberga said in one of her addresses that it is great honor for her to join opening of the Jewish library and voiced a hope the library will provide deeper understanding in Judaism, the dramatic fate of the Jewish people and simultaneously the beautiful history so people become more understanding, wiser and humane.

Latvia's top officials Monday joined opening of the Jewish community library, presentation of Elie Wiesel's book "Night" and opening of the third reunion of Jews residing outside Latvia but having links to this Baltic country. Latvian President Vaira Vike-Freiberga said in one of her addresses that it is great honor for her to join opening of the Jewish library and voiced a hope the library will provide deeper understanding in Judaism, the dramatic fate of the Jewish people and simultaneously the beautiful history so people become more understanding, wiser and humane. BNS, Diena, Neatkariga, Latvijas Vestnesis

The Latvian security police decided not to open a criminal case over reaction and remarks by National Bolsheviks after a court passed judgement in Russia's National Bolshevik case, sending them to jail for 5-15 years for terrorism, the security police reported to

The Latvian security police decided not to open a criminal case over reaction and remarks by National Bolsheviks after a court passed judgement in Russia's National Bolshevik case, sending them to jail for 5-15 years for terrorism, the security police reported to BNS, Neatkariga, Chas

Latvia's top security agency, the Constitution Protection Office (CPO), Monday declined, due to the lack of corpus delicti, opening of a criminal case over youth essay contest held by Vieda publishing house which was sharply criticized by Russian Foreign Ministry and was not unequivocally valued in Latvia as well. The CPO said that under the Latvian constitution every one in Latvia is entitled to freedom of speech although the opinions voiced may be disliked by a part of society.

Latvia's top security agency, the Constitution Protection Office (CPO), Monday declined, due to the lack of corpus delicti, opening of a criminal case over youth essay contest held by Vieda publishing house which was sharply criticized by Russian Foreign Ministry and was not unequivocally valued in Latvia as well. The CPO said that under the Latvian constitution every one in Latvia is entitled to freedom of speech although the opinions voiced may be disliked by a part of society. BNS

The vote on the candidate for the post of the second deputy of the Riga Mayor I.Vaidere will be a test to the coalition strength in the Riga City Council. The FF/LNNK leader M.Grinblats said that if this vote would be unsuccessful then one might start doubting the future of the existing coalition.

The vote on the candidate for the post of the second deputy of the Riga Mayor I.Vaidere will be a test to the coalition strength in the Riga City Council. The FF/LNNK leader M.Grinblats said that if this vote would be unsuccessful then one might start doubting the future of the existing coalition. Diena

The official exchange of Latvian Ambassador to Moscow I.Daudiss could take place in September, now both ambassadors the present and the future one, plan to return to Latvia at the beginning of summer for some rest.

The official exchange of Latvian Ambassador to Moscow I.Daudiss could take place in September, now both ambassadors the present and the future one, plan to return to Latvia at the beginning of summer for some rest. Diena, Rigas Balss

A group of experts will start working on a project allowing borders crossings among the Baltic States with an ID card. This was agreed upon at the meeting of Interior Ministers of the three Baltic States that took place in Riga on Monday. Latvian Minister of Interior M.Seglins reminded at a briefing that Latvia had not adopted the very concept of ID. Issuance of IDs in Latvia should be started from 2002 and completed by 2005 but the government, depending from the financial possibilities, may change the terms of preparation and issuance.

A group of experts will start working on a project allowing borders crossings among the Baltic States with an ID card. This was agreed upon at the meeting of Interior Ministers of the three Baltic States that took place in Riga on Monday. Latvian Minister of Interior M.Seglins reminded at a briefing that Latvia had not adopted the very concept of ID. Issuance of IDs in Latvia should be started from 2002 and completed by 2005 but the government, depending from the financial possibilities, may change the terms of preparation and issuance. Diena

The newspaper

The newspaper Latvijas Vestnesis continues publishing materials of the conference On the Road to a Civic Society. This time there are published the speeches of President V.Vike-Freiberga and Presidents Office Amnesty Service Head R.Aksenoka.

Some time ago the newspaper

Some time ago the newspaper Vesti Segodnya started a discussion on the future of the domicile registration or propiska system because the responsible Saeima Commission planed to exchange the existing one for something else. The newspaper published letters of its readers where they wondered why there was a need for any system at all. They find this system ridiculous.

At the beginning of this year the deputies from the faction For Human Rights in United Latvia filed a case with the Constitutional Court on noncompliance of the “Law on Pensions” with the Latvian constitution and international standards. The deputies considered that the law contained a norm discriminating Latvian non-citizens, i.e. when calculating retirement pensions were not taken into account the years that those people had worked outside the territory of Latvia. But for Latvian citizens there is no such limitation. Now the deputies received an answer that the hearing was planned for June 10.

At the beginning of this year the deputies from the faction For Human Rights in United Latvia filed a case with the Constitutional Court on noncompliance of the Law on Pensions with the Latvian constitution and international standards. The deputies considered that the law contained a norm discriminating Latvian non-citizens, i.e. when calculating retirement pensions were not taken into account the years that those people had worked outside the territory of Latvia. But for Latvian citizens there is no such limitation. Now the deputies received an answer that the hearing was planned for June 10. Panorama Latvii