ABSTRACT

The development of Russian in the present territory of Latvia can be traced back to the arrival of Slavic tribes. Considering the relatively high proportion of Russian speakers and the historical context, as an integral part of culture, Russian plays an important role in Latvian society. The aim of this chapter is to analyze the historical development of

Russian and the challenges it faces in Latvia today. Taking into account

the existing language pluralism and diversity in the ethnic composition, during the first independence (1918–1939) and after the restored, second independence (1991), Latvia implemented a thoroughly thought-out education and integration policy, among other things enabling Russian speakers to receive a quality education and integrate successfully into the local community. Linguistic attitudes are an integral part of the language policy, and the state has the power to purposefully shape it. The chapter discusses how linguistic attitudes are shaped through education which is then capable of influencing the system of social values and ensuring their continuity. Describing the current socio-linguistic situation of Russian

we point to several essential aspects: the Latvian public media is open to a Russian user, and in order to reduce the polarization of information, various television and radio broadcasts

are offered. Information platforms are developed to keep Russian speakers updated about events in Latvia and in the world. We analyze the role of Russian in the political life of the country showing that political parties use Russian as a “political card” to address their electorate, thereby only dividing the society. Assessing the status of Russian in present-day Latvia, we conclude that the use of Russian is not threatened or discriminated in anyway as Russian speakers have access to the media and bilingual education. In any country promotion of the titular language and creation of favorable conditions for its use are a matter of national self-confidence.. Language is one of the most important basic elements in the development of culture and identity, and in contemporary Latvia all prerequisites have been created to enable different ethnic groups to cultivate and protect their languages and cultures.