Baltic States – CIS, Education and Science, Latvia, Markets and Companies

She explains that political parties should find the money for such content to be created in Latvia, however, the current situation demonstrates that politicians are passive and indifferent, and that there currently is no media policy in Latvia.

"For more than 20 years, the mass media have not been paying enough attention to content meant for the Russian-speaking audience. The current situation demonstrates that part of society receives limited or no information about the events in Latvia," Rozukalne indicated, adding that a large part of Latvian residents understand the Russian language and are also interested in entertainment products offered by the Russian media.

"There is a lack of Russian media in Latvia, however, they are very influential in regard to the media market and audiences. Russian television channels offer content that allows their audiences to feel comfortable, create a bond with Russia, develop a feeling of belonging to the Russian culture, and be informed about the latest developments," Rozukalne explained, indicating that the influence of Russian media in Latvia is increased by the editorial policies of many Russian media, especially newspapers.

"These newspapers support Russia's position on certain opinions by repeating Russia's political propaganda cliches and saying that this is what their audience demands. Therefore, a number of Latvian residents, who get their information from certain Russian media, do not have the opportunity to receive facts and opinions that would make them doubt Russia's policy and whether it complies with Latvia's national security interests, as well as contemporary democratic traditions," Rozukalne added.