On Thursday, 7 April, the Saeima adopted a law establishing that this year, 9 May will be a day of commemoration of the victims of the Russian aggression in Ukraine.

9 May is declared a day of commemoration in the entire territory of Latvia in order to honour the Ukrainian civilians and troops that have been injured or died as a result of the aggression initiated in Ukraine by the Russian Federation.

According to the Law, the flag of Latvia, displayed in mourning, must be placed on national and local government buildings, as well as on residential buildings. On this day, the flag of Ukraine, displayed in mourning, must accompany the flag of Latvia on the Tower of Holy Spirit of the Riga Castle, the presidential residence, the Saeima building, and the Cabinet of Ministers building.

The Law establishes that this year on 9 May public entertainment and celebratory events are not organised and municipalities do not issue permits to organise events within their territory. The permits already issued to organise events on this day must be revoked. It is, however, permitted to organise gatherings, processions, or demonstrations with the aim of honouring the Ukrainian dead.

The Law also prohibits the use of pyrotechnics on 9 and 10 May this year.

“Lighting fireworks is not acceptable on a day of commemoration. Therefore, those who will not abide by this rule will be held responsible by the law enforcement authorities in accordance with the procedure set forth by the law,” said Artuss Kaimiņš, Chair of the Human Rights and Public Affairs Committee, which is responsible for advancing the Draft Law in the Saeima.

The Law was adopted to raise the attention of the Latvian public to the military aggression initiated in Ukraine by the Russian Federation and to show solidarity with the Ukrainian people in their fight for the sovereignty, independence, and territorial integrity of Ukraine.

The Law will enter into force on the day following its promulgation.

Saeima Press Service