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.

• High officials called residents to be united in ceremonial speeches on the Independence Day

According to the State President’s Andris Berzins ceremonial speech in honour of the Independence Day on 18 November, it is the last moment for the Latvian residents to become united and decisive, to put away stereotypes about what it means to be an ethnic Latvian, about “us” and “others”, because the representatives of all nations who live in the country honour and respect its language, traditions and symbols and have proved that they can work together and take responsibility of themselves and the country during crucial moments. The President also stated “by searching and fighting enemies, we destroy our good will and devalue our noblest goals and, as a result, turn against ourselves.” The Speaker of the Saeima Solvita Aboltina, in her ceremonial speech stated that the ability to live harmony is a value and should be maintained. Mrs Aboltina stated that there are no “us” and “them” because there is one nation, one Latvia, one common future. Latvijas Avize