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As already reported in IRIS 1995-9:13, a new Act on the electronic mass media has come into force. The text of the act, adopted on 8 September 1995, is now available. The Act begins with a general section containing definitions and basic provisions. Within the meaning of the act, electronic mass media include, in particular, radio, television, cable radio, cable television, satellite television and computer television. Within the meaning of the act broadcasting is defined as the development and dissemination of programmes intended for reception by the general public. Objectivity and neutrality...

In IRIS 1995-7:5, we reported that Parliament had rejected the Latvian Radio and Television Act and referred it back to the committee. The Act has now been passed on a second attempt and has come into force. Further legislation is being discussed. A Freedom of Information Act is, for example, in the pipeline. This makes it possible to classify information as "public", "confidential" or a "state secret", and specifies the empowering state authorities. It expressly states that the classification of information as confidential may not be misused to conceal misconduct by an individual or the state....

For the time being, attempts to pass new legislation on radio and television have been unsuccessful. In the decisive debate on 15 June the Parliament ultimately rejected the second reading of the bill. The text is now to be revised by the appropriate committee.