Integration monitor is a daily Latvian press digest on ethnic minority and society integration issues. The Monitor reviews the biggest Latvian dailies: Diena, Latvijas Avize, Neatkariga (in Latvian language), Vesti Segodnya (in Russian language). In specific cases other information sources are used. Latvian Centre for Human Rights is not responsible for information published by the media.

• President of Lithuania Valdas Adamkus: Latvia and Estonia should grant citizenship to their Russian speaking residents
• Telegraf: State Language Centre objects proposal to soften state language requirements for fire-fighters

The President of Lithuania Valdas Adamkus has stated that Latvia and Estonia should grant citizenship to their Russian speaking residents. Valdas Adamkus has noted that “Russians in Lithuania are provided all conditions to preserve and foster their cultural activities.” Mr. Adamkus believes that Latvia and Estonia should consider Lithuania’s experience.

The President of Lithuania Valdas Adamkus has stated that Latvia and Estonia should grant citizenship to their Russian speaking residents. Valdas Adamkus has noted that Russians in Lithuania are provided all conditions to preserve and foster their cultural activities. Mr. Adamkus believes that Latvia and Estonia should consider Lithuanias experience. Chas

Telegraf reports that a representative of the State Language Centre in an interview with the newspaper has stated that the Centre objects proposal to soften state language requirements for fire-fighters. As reported, in December, the Cabinet of Ministers adopted amendments to regulations of the Cabinet of Ministers according to which fire-fighters must speak the state language at the highest level. However, the Ministry of Interiors has proposed to soften state language requirements for those fire-fighters who do not have a direct contact with residents.