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.

Press Review

Press Review

It is anticipated that the amendment to the budget will be adopted today in the third reading because the three government forming factions support it. The opposition parties will vote against these amendments.

It is anticipated that the amendment to the budget will be adopted today in the third reading because the three government forming factions support it. The opposition parties will vote against these amendments. Neatkariga, Jauna Avize, Bizness & Baltiya, SM

Should the Saeima support the decision of the Budget and Finances Commission, the age of retirement would be raised quicker that it was planned by the government - 1 year for men and 1.5 years for women.

Should the Saeima support the decision of the Budget and Finances Commission, the age of retirement would be raised quicker that it was planned by the government - 1 year for men and 1.5 years for women. Diena

Latvian Minister of Foreign Affairs I.Berzins considers that Russia is interested to see Latvia in EU and NATO because a safe and predictable neighbour is more convenient to it that a state from “the grey zone”. He finds current Latvian Russian relations as very passive. I.Berzins pointed out that a complete dialogue with Russia is necessary and the neighbouring state should not be ignored but treated honestly.

Latvian Minister of Foreign Affairs I.Berzins considers that Russia is interested to see Latvia in EU and NATO because a safe and predictable neighbour is more convenient to it that a state from the grey zone. He finds current Latvian Russian relations as very passive. I.Berzins pointed out that a complete dialogue with Russia is necessary and the neighbouring state should not be ignored but treated honestly. Diena

According to the new procedure of issuing and exchange of passports adopted by the Estonian government, Estonia citizens in the case of necessity will be able to receive one more passport the could be used only as a travel document. The new law will take effect from January 1, 2000.

According to the new procedure of issuing and exchange of passports adopted by the Estonian government, Estonia citizens in the case of necessity will be able to receive one more passport the could be used only as a travel document. The new law will take effect from January 1, 2000. Diena