Press Report

Press Report

On Tuesday after a long lingering the government adopted the National Integration Program. The program was submitted for public discussion already in spring of 1999 but due to a discord among politicians its adoption was delayed.

On Tuesday after a long lingering the government adopted the National Integration Program. The program was submitted for public discussion already in spring of 1999 but due to a discord among politicians its adoption was delayed. Diena

Vesti Segodnya

comments that this program was adopted secretly as a modern medicine for alcohol addicts – hiding this news from the very addicts. The subjects of this program will not know that they have been started to integrate because firstly - there is no effective mechanism for implementing this program, secondly – lack of political will to do a real integration, and thirdly – according to the opinion of the opposition, from the very beginning the program was developed just for show-off and receiving financial support from the West. The Cabinet of Ministers accepted the procedure according to which persons were deprived of their non-citizen status. The regulations stipulate that a decision of depriving a person of his/her non-citizen status shall be taken by the DCMA Head or his authorized official. DCMA is authorized to start verification itself and also basing on an application of another state or local government institution, as well as a physical and juridical person if there is grounds to consider that a person has no legal right for this status. Person’s avoiding or refusal to provide explanation may not serve as an excuse for not taking a decision of depriving him/her of non-citizen status. Check-up may last for three months, in some special cases – four months. A DCMA decision may be appealed within one month since it has taken effect.

The Cabinet of Ministers accepted the procedure according to which persons were deprived of their non-citizen status. The regulations stipulate that a decision of depriving a person of his/her non-citizen status shall be taken by the DCMA Head or his authorized official. DCMA is authorized to start verification itself and also basing on an application of another state or local government institution, as well as a physical and juridical person if there is grounds to consider that a person has no legal right for this status. Persons avoiding or refusal to provide explanation may not serve as an excuse for not taking a decision of depriving him/her of non-citizen status. Check-up may last for three months, in some special cases – four months. A DCMA decision may be appealed within one month since it has taken effect. Neatkariga

After leaving the ruling coalition, the New Faction became very active in opposition. As a proof for that may serve the calculation of the faction’s leader I.Udre who has calculated possibilities for falling of the government. I.Udre foresaw that some coalition partner could leave the coalition with an excuse that the government did not fulfill its pre-election promises in order to use this trick for the local government election. And as the most likely candidate for such an action she mentioned People’s Party.

After leaving the ruling coalition, the New Faction became very active in opposition. As a proof for that may serve the calculation of the factions leader I.Udre who has calculated possibilities for falling of the government. I.Udre foresaw that some coalition partner could leave the coalition with an excuse that the government did not fulfill its pre-election promises in order to use this trick for the local government election. And as the most likely candidate for such an action she mentioned Peoples Party. Neatkariga, Respublika

The leader of Social Democrats E.Baldzens is sure that a governmental crisis is approaching, and it is linked with privatization of Latvian Shipping Company.

The leader of Social Democrats E.Baldzens is sure that a governmental crisis is approaching, and it is linked with privatization of Latvian Shipping Company. Jauna Avize

For long time Russia has been ignoring Latvia and Russian speakers residing here. Intergovernmental Commission acts only on paper. But now at the meeting of the highest state officials Latvian Minister of Foreign Affairs I.Berzins, after his visit to Moscow, was sure about forthcoming changes in the nearest future. And Latvian representatives are frequenting to Moscow, mostly for business related issues, but they all speak about the possible changes in Russia’s policy concerning Latvia.

For long time Russia has been ignoring Latvia and Russian speakers residing here. Intergovernmental Commission acts only on paper. But now at the meeting of the highest state officials Latvian Minister of Foreign Affairs I.Berzins, after his visit to Moscow, was sure about forthcoming changes in the nearest future. And Latvian representatives are frequenting to Moscow, mostly for business related issues, but they all speak about the possible changes in Russias policy concerning Latvia. Respublika

Press Report

Press Report

Diena

interviews Finland Prime Minister P.Lipponen. The Prime Minister was asked about the probable time of Latvias accession to the EU. In his opinion the most serious obstacle in Latvias way to the accession is rather the implementation of the practices than their adoption and in regard to Russias attitude toward Latvias accession to NATO, he said that all countries are entitled to make their own choice. Prime Minister sees many fields for mutual co-operation between the two countries and as among one of the most important projects he mentioned co-operation in organising language courses interviews Finland Prime Minister P.Lipponen. The Prime Minister was asked about the probable time of Latvia’s accession to the EU. In his opinion the most serious obstacle in Latvia’s way to the accession is rather the implementation of the practices than their adoption and in regard to Russia’s attitude toward Latvia’s accession to NATO, he said that all countries are entitled to make their own choice. Prime Minister sees many fields for mutual co-operation between the two countries and as among one of the most important projects he mentioned co-operation in organising language courses Diena, Neatkariga, Lauku Avize, Jauna, Vesti Segodnja, RespublikaDiena, Neatkariga, Lauku Avize, Jauna, Vesti Segodnja, Respublika New Party faction sent a letter to Prime Minister A.Berzins stating that “they stop their work in the Coalition because the Government ignores the declaration”. Now Position’s factions have 64 votes and if in some decisions New Party faction can reach an agreement with FF/LNNK, then the ruling Coalition remains a minority with 48 votes.

New Party faction sent a letter to Prime Minister A.Berzins stating that they stop their work in the Coalition because the Government ignores the declaration. Now Positions factions have 64 votes and if in some decisions New Party faction can reach an agreement with FF/LNNK, then the ruling Coalition remains a minority with 48 votes. Diena, Neatkariga, Lauku Avize, Jauna, Vesti Segodnja, Respublika

Although the National Radio and Television Council took a decision to stop the broadcast of the radio station Biznes&Baltija;, it continues broadcasting as the radio station does not find itself guilty in violating language regulations and has filed a protest to the court. NRTC chairman O.Rubenis admits that B&B; has a legal justification to continue broadcasting. The President of B&B; V.Gurovs said that the methods how the amount of a foreign language is measured should be determined, as currently there are no legal acts on that.

Although the National Radio and Television Council took a decision to stop the broadcast of the radio station Biznes&Baltija, it continues broadcasting as the radio station does not find itself guilty in violating language regulations and has filed a protest to the court. NRTC chairman O.Rubenis admits that B&B has a legal justification to continue broadcasting. The President of B&B V.Gurovs said that the methods how the amount of a foreign language is measured should be determined, as currently there are no legal acts on that. Diena, Neatkariga, Jauna, Chas, Respublika, Panorama Latvii

In Brussels 6th Joint Latvia’s and EU Parliamentarian Committee Sitting takes place. Main discussion subjects are the priorities of Sweden presidency, implementation of EU assistance programmes, the course of society integration in Latvia and cross-border co-operation.

In Brussels 6th Joint Latvias and EU Parliamentarian Committee Sitting takes place. Main discussion subjects are the priorities of Sweden presidency, implementation of EU assistance programmes, the course of society integration in Latvia and cross-border co-operation. Neatkariga

10 – 12 February the delegation from Latvia will take part in the international forum “Policy and Safety” in Kaliningrad. There will be two delegations from Latvia – one from the Parliament and the other one will be constituted by Baltic Forum Head N.Neiland, Riga City Council deputy S.Dolgopolov and businessman D.Zelmenis.

10 – 12 February the delegation from Latvia will take part in the international forum Policy and Safety in Kaliningrad. There will be two delegations from Latvia – one from the Parliament and the other one will be constituted by Baltic Forum Head N.Neiland, Riga City Council deputy S.Dolgopolov and businessman D.Zelmenis. Chas, Panorama Latvii

13-16 February FHRUL delegation will visit Moscow on the invitation of the former Prime Minister of Russia D.Rogozin. FHRUL has scheduled meetings with Duma Speaker G.Seleznyev, officials of the Ministry of FA and deputies.

13-16 February FHRUL delegation will visit Moscow on the invitation of the former Prime Minister of Russia D.Rogozin. FHRUL has scheduled meetings with Duma Speaker G.Seleznyev, officials of the Ministry of FA and deputies. Vesti Segodnja, Chas

The President V.Vike-Freiberga considers that lately Russia’s officials have made “certain signals and statements” that foster positive environment and give hopes that the relationship between the countries improves.

The President V.Vike-Freiberga considers that lately Russias officials have made certain signals and statements that foster positive environment and give hopes that the relationship between the countries improves. Vesti Segodnja

Vesti Segodnja

gives a brief summary of parties municipal election promises regarding such fields as housing, transport, education, welfare and others. gives a brief summary of parties’ municipal election promises regarding such fields as housing, transport, education, welfare and others. Tomorrow the President is giving two interviews – one for the newspaper

Tomorrow the President is giving two interviews – one for the newspaper The Washington Post and another for the Ukrainian television. As it is known international journalists mostly are interested in the issues concerning non-citizens. According to press secretary of the President the questions will be not only about the problems of non-citizens, but also about Latvia as a country itself. Respublika

Press Report

Finnish Prime Minister P.Lipponen arrived to Riga to discuss bilateral relations and Latvian integration into EU.

Finnish Prime Minister P.Lipponen arrived to Riga to discuss bilateral relations and Latvian integration into EU. Diena, Neatkariga, Jauna Avize, Vesti Segodnya

Diena

published an article where journalists analyze programs and possible election results for the left wing political forces. During the last Saeima election the Union of left wing parties received the majority of voices in Riga and it allowed hoping for similar results in this local government election. published an article where journalists analyze programs and possible election results for the left wing political forces. During the last Saeima election the Union of left wing parties received the majority of voices in Riga and it allowed hoping for similar results in this local government election. Latvian MFA submitted for affirming at the Cabinet of Ministers the list of Latvian judges, candidates for judge positions at the European Human rights Court. The candidates are the present judge E.Levits and lawyers S.Harbacevica and Z.Udris.

Latvian MFA submitted for affirming at the Cabinet of Ministers the list of Latvian judges, candidates for judge positions at the European Human rights Court. The candidates are the present judge E.Levits and lawyers S.Harbacevica and Z.Udris. Neatkariga

Latvian Prime Minister A.Berzins assured editors-in-chief of regional newspapers that the government was more stable than any time before. A.Berzins added that it was achieved disregarding the decision of the New Faction to work in the opposition. He explained that now there was no chance to take any decision if the coalition partners did not reached a consensus.

Latvian Prime Minister A.Berzins assured editors-in-chief of regional newspapers that the government was more stable than any time before. A.Berzins added that it was achieved disregarding the decision of the New Faction to work in the opposition. He explained that now there was no chance to take any decision if the coalition partners did not reached a consensus. Rigas Balss (02.02.)

Former Soviet security services officer M.Farbtuh, sentenced for wartime crimes in Latvia, submitted a request on releasing him before the end of his sentence term due to health problems.

Former Soviet security services officer M.Farbtuh, sentenced for wartime crimes in Latvia, submitted a request on releasing him before the end of his sentence term due to health problems. Panorama Latvii

MP S.Dolgopolov informed that a working group of three lawyers from the faction For Human Rights in United Latvia finished the draft of Council of Non-citizens and it was planned to submit this draft to the present Riga City Council. The developers of this draft are sure about the necessity of their work because there are too many people in Riga deprived of their right of political representation and consequently – participating in city’s life.

MP S.Dolgopolov informed that a working group of three lawyers from the faction For Human Rights in United Latvia finished the draft of Council of Non-citizens and it was planned to submit this draft to the present Riga City Council. The developers of this draft are sure about the necessity of their work because there are too many people in Riga deprived of their right of political representation and consequently – participating in citys life.

 Press Report

Press Report

Although there are observed some positive changes in the natural increase of the number of population, according to the data of the Central Statistics Board the total number of Latvian residents in 2000 decreased for 13.8 000 or 0.6%. Natural decrease constituted 12 000 people and 1800 people migrated from Latvia. At the beginning of this year the population number was 2 366 000.

Although there are observed some positive changes in the natural increase of the number of population, according to the data of the Central Statistics Board the total number of Latvian residents in 2000 decreased for 13.8 000 or 0.6%. Natural decrease constituted 12 000 people and 1800 people migrated from Latvia. At the beginning of this year the population number was 2 366 000. Diena

Diena

published the results of an opinion poll, organized by company SKD in order to find out what political parties were the most popular in Latvia. Respondents were asked to answer the question What party would you vote for if the Saeima took place tomorrow? Social Democrats run first – 18,85 (December 2000 – 17.8%), second were FF/LNNK 11% (13.3%), third - Latvian Way – 10.8% (11.6%). published the results of an opinion poll, organized by company SKD in order to find out what political parties were the most popular in Latvia. Respondents were asked to answer the question “What party would you vote for if the Saeima took place tomorrow?” Social Democrats run first – 18,85 (December 2000 – 17.8%), second were FF/LNNK 11% (13.3%), third - Latvian Way – 10.8% (11.6%). During a meeting the highest state officials and Minister of Foreign Affairs harmonized their opinions on vital foreign policy aspects, paying special attention to relations with Russia. After this meeting President V.Vike-Freiberga said that they wished pragmatic and mutually friendly relations with Russia.

During a meeting the highest state officials and Minister of Foreign Affairs harmonized their opinions on vital foreign policy aspects, paying special attention to relations with Russia. After this meeting President V.Vike-Freiberga said that they wished pragmatic and mutually friendly relations with Russia. Neatkariga

V.Vike-Freiberga told journalists that she expected to meet Russian President V.Putin, Latvian party was just waiting for a signal from Moscow.

V.Vike-Freiberga told journalists that she expected to meet Russian President V.Putin, Latvian party was just waiting for a signal from Moscow. Vesti Segodnya

CoE stopped monitoring of Latvia that was meant to protect the rights of non-Latvians here. At the same time the international community pointed out the Latvia had not so far ratifies the Framework Convention on National minorities although the Cabinet of Ministers already in 1995 promised that the Saeima would adopt it. Several months ago the ac For Human Rights in United Latvia submitted for consideration at the Saeima a draft law on ratifying this convention but all other factions rejected it immediately even without discussing it. Saeima Human Rights and Social Affairs Commission Head A.Seiksts thinks that the ratification of this convention could do any harm to Latvia. It would just gain. He thinks that Latvia should ratify it in the nearest future but with at least one subterfuge – stating that Latvia temporarily might not implement Part 2 of Article 10.

CoE stopped monitoring of Latvia that was meant to protect the rights of non-Latvians here. At the same time the international community pointed out the Latvia had not so far ratifies the Framework Convention on National minorities although the Cabinet of Ministers already in 1995 promised that the Saeima would adopt it. Several months ago the ac For Human Rights in United Latvia submitted for consideration at the Saeima a draft law on ratifying this convention but all other factions rejected it immediately even without discussing it. Saeima Human Rights and Social Affairs Commission Head A.Seiksts thinks that the ratification of this convention could do any harm to Latvia. It would just gain. He thinks that Latvia should ratify it in the nearest future but with at least one subterfuge – stating that Latvia temporarily might not implement Part 2 of Article 10. Lauku Avize

MP G.Bojars just returned from his regular visit to Moscow. During this visit he met the Chairman of national Council G.Seleznyov. Mr.Bojars told that it was an unofficial meeting during which they discussed standard issues of the situation with non-citizens and Russian speakers in Latvia, but more both officials spoke about possibilities to cooperate on parliamentarian level. The Chairman was positive about the visit of Latvian Minister of Foreign Affairs I.Berzins.

MP G.Bojars just returned from his regular visit to Moscow. During this visit he met the Chairman of national Council G.Seleznyov. Mr.Bojars told that it was an unofficial meeting during which they discussed standard issues of the situation with non-citizens and Russian speakers in Latvia, but more both officials spoke about possibilities to cooperate on parliamentarian level. The Chairman was positive about the visit of Latvian Minister of Foreign Affairs I.Berzins. Lauku Avize

Latvian authorities decided to stop broadcasting of the Russian speaking radio station B&B; for four days. But now it seems that local officials have overdone. According to the information received by

Latvian authorities decided to stop broadcasting of the Russian speaking radio station B&B for four days. But now it seems that local officials have overdone. According to the information received by Vesti Segodnya, Latvia faced problems with conformity of its legislation on radio and TV broadcasting with EU standards. EU Commission in Brussels demands Latvia to implement a whole set of amendments in its law on radio and TV. Officials in Brussels may not comprehend how state authorities in a democratic country may intervene in the language of broadcasting on private radio and TV stations. Brussels considers that any percentage limits should be abolished in broadcasting.

A.Story in

A.Story in Chas, writing about the conference Problems of legislation transformation due to integration in Europe, says that Latvias joining EU will also influence its legislation. Reforms must take place in many spheres – from state administration to rights of refuge seekers, from changes in Satversme to the Criminal Code. But the most important thing, as our constitution is the oldest in Europe, it should be changed quite a lot.

 

Press Report

Press Report

There is no reason to give optimistic forecasts that Latvia could enter the EU in 2004 and NATO in 2002, say the analysts of Economist Intelligence Unit of the magazine

There is no reason to give optimistic forecasts that Latvia could enter the EU in 2004 and NATO in 2002, say the analysts of Economist Intelligence Unit of the magazine Economist. Diena

As of 3 February every Saturday Latvia’s national radio will broadcast a programme in Russian "The Ways We Chose". The programme is prepared by Radio Free Europe/Radio Freedom and its aim is to inform about integration processes in Latvia.

As of 3 February every Saturday Latvias national radio will broadcast a programme in Russian "The Ways We Chose". The programme is prepared by Radio Free Europe/Radio Freedom and its aim is to inform about integration processes in Latvia. Diena, Jauna, Chas, Vesti Segodnja, Respublika

The President of Radio Free Europe/Radio Freedom T.Dine has arrived in Riga and gives couple interviews. In his interview to the newspaper

The President of Radio Free Europe/Radio Freedom T.Dine has arrived in Riga and gives couple interviews. In his interview to the newspaper Neatkariga T.Dine gives information about the activities of his radio on the territory of the East and Central Europe and talks about the aims of the radio in the Baltic States - to reduce the gap between Latvian and Russian communities. In his opinion Russian mass media in Latvia do not foster integration in Latvia.

On Thursday former employees of Russia's Embassy in Latvia organised a picket at the building of Russia's embassy. They protested against their illegitimate firing and indifference of Russia's ambassador to Latvia A.Udalcov as the ambassador was not able to find time for the audience with them for couple months. The attorney of the former employees says that the situation is very non-ethical, as Russia's authorities always say that Russians are offended in Latvia, but actually it turns out that they do not care for their own citizens. The agreement between the former employees and Russia's embassy was not reached.

On Thursday former employees of Russia's Embassy in Latvia organised a picket at the building of Russia's embassy. They protested against their illegitimate firing and indifference of Russia's ambassador to Latvia A.Udalcov as the ambassador was not able to find time for the audience with them for couple months. The attorney of the former employees says that the situation is very non-ethical, as Russia's authorities always say that Russians are offended in Latvia, but actually it turns out that they do not care for their own citizens. The agreement between the former employees and Russia's embassy was not reached. Jauna, Neatkariga, Chas, Vesti Segodnja, Respublika, Panorama Latvii

According to social poll data the most popular party among the citizens is Social Democrats (18,8 Latvia's citizens would vote for them), followed by FF/LNNK (11%) and Latvia's Way (10,8%). V.Vike-Freiberga remains the most popular person in the country, followed by Latvia's Bank Governor E.Repse and Riga's Mayor A.Argalis and the most unpopular persons are A.Skele (People's Party), T.Zhadonk (FHRUL) and A.Rubiks. Most trusted social institutions are church and mass media.

According to social poll data the most popular party among the citizens is Social Democrats (18,8 Latvia's citizens would vote for them), followed by FF/LNNK (11%) and Latvia's Way (10,8%). V.Vike-Freiberga remains the most popular person in the country, followed by Latvia's Bank Governor E.Repse and Riga's Mayor A.Argalis and the most unpopular persons are A.Skele (People's Party), T.Zhadonk (FHRUL) and A.Rubiks. Most trusted social institutions are church and mass media. Neatkariga, Diena, Vesti Segodnja, Respublika

Broadcast of Radio Station Biznes&Baltija; will be ceased again. As of 5 February broadcast of the radio station Biznes&Baltija; will be stopped for 4 days once again, as B&B; has exceeded the amount of the foreign language allowed to be aired by the Law on Radio and Television. The National Television and Radio Council adopted this decision on Thursday. Already last year broadcast of B&B; was stopped because the radio station violated language norms - B&B; mainly airs in Russian and broadcasts the programme of Russia's radio station. Last year B&B; aired hidden advertisement for alcohol promoting whiskey "Grant". After these violations NTRC filed the claim on B&B; to the court. The management of B&B; does not agree with the reproaches and is ready to defend its position at any court.

Broadcast of Radio Station Biznes&Baltija will be ceased again. As of 5 February broadcast of the radio station Biznes&Baltija will be stopped for 4 days once again, as B&B has exceeded the amount of the foreign language allowed to be aired by the Law on Radio and Television. The National Television and Radio Council adopted this decision on Thursday. Already last year broadcast of B&B was stopped because the radio station violated language norms - B&B mainly airs in Russian and broadcasts the programme of Russia's radio station. Last year B&B aired hidden advertisement for alcohol promoting whiskey "Grant". After these violations NTRC filed the claim on B&B to the court. The management of B&B does not agree with the reproaches and is ready to defend its position at any court. Diena

Chas informs that B&B; has not given any comments on NTRC decision yet.

Chas informs that B&B has not given any comments on NTRC decision yet. Vesti Segodnja informs that the usage of a foreign language has been measured very accurately – it is stated that form 7 -22 December 63% of broadcasting was in Russian.

Chas

talks with FHRUL deputy B.Cilevich. The Latvian language usage, ratification of the Framework Convention on National Minority Rights, Convention on Involvement of Immigrants and Non-citizens in Social and Political Activities in the Member-countries of the EU were the discussion subjects. He says, "For other countries Latvia mainly associates with the vast number of non-citizens". talks with FHRUL deputy B.Cilevich. The Latvian language usage, ratification of the Framework Convention on National Minority Rights, Convention on Involvement of Immigrants and Non-citizens in Social and Political Activities in the Member-countries of the EU were the discussion subjects. He says, "For other countries Latvia mainly associates with the vast number of non-citizens". Panorama LatviiPanorama Latvii

Chas

visits Naturalisation Board in Rezekne. The Head of Rezekne's Naturalisation Board says that the problem in Rezekne is a significant number of people who are Latvias citizens, but who do not speak Latvian as in this region Russians have been living since very old times, so they acquired citizenship automatically, however, they do not speak Latvian. visits Naturalisation Board in Rezekne. The Head of Rezekne's Naturalisation Board says that the problem in Rezekne is a significant number of people who are Latvia’s citizens, but who do not speak Latvian as in this region Russians have been living since very old times, so they acquired citizenship automatically, however, they do not speak Latvian. Yesterday the majority of Saeima deputies turned down the proposed amendments to the Law on the Procedure on Reviewing Applications, Complaints and Proposals at State and Municipal Institutions. FHRUL proposed that an applicant can receive a verbal response in his/her native tongue if a civil officer speaks the language.

Yesterday the majority of Saeima deputies turned down the proposed amendments to the Law on the Procedure on Reviewing Applications, Complaints and Proposals at State and Municipal Institutions. FHRUL proposed that an applicant can receive a verbal response in his/her native tongue if a civil officer speaks the language.

Latvian Committee on Human Rights co-chairman G.Kotov informs that the Committee will award those entrepreneurs who will be among the first ones establishing their companies' sign boards not only in Latvian, but also in Russian.

Latvian Committee on Human Rights co-chairman G.Kotov informs that the Committee will award those entrepreneurs who will be among the first ones establishing their companies' sign boards not only in Latvian, but also in Russian. Panorama Latvii.

Yesterday the amendments were entered to the Regulations of CoM No 296 "Regulations on State Language Proficiency Level Necessary to Carry Out Professional and Job Duties and on State Language Proficiency Examination Procedure", as well as the amendments were entered to CoM Regulations No 293 "The Statutes of the State Language Centre" and Regulations on Non- citizens Passports.

Yesterday the amendments were entered to the Regulations of CoM No 296 "Regulations on State Language Proficiency Level Necessary to Carry Out Professional and Job Duties and on State Language Proficiency Examination Procedure", as well as the amendments were entered to CoM Regulations No 293 "The Statutes of the State Language Centre" and Regulations on Non- citizens Passports. Latvijas Vestnesis