Latvia to restrict Russian-language content in state media from 2027

The end of the era of Russian-language broadcasting on LSM

From 1 January 2027, regular Russian-language content will cease to exist entirely in Latvian public media (LSM). This was announced by LSM board member Ieva Aile. She confirmed that the legislative framework leaves room for exceptions, but such decisions will be made individually for each specific case.

Current state of the media landscape

At present, Latvian television and radio broadcasting (Latvijas Radio) do not broadcast programmes in Russian. The LSM.lv news portal has operated since the beginning of the current year as the only platform where the primary language is Latvian. However, the site also features materials in English, Ukrainian and Russian.

The Russian-language LSM editorial team previously had a significant influence on audiences in Latvia and neighbouring countries, actively using social networks. In particular, it managed the YouTube channel with the largest number of subscribers among the country's public media outlets. The recently established Latgale editorial team of LSM has also identified Russian-speaking residents of the region as one of its target audiences, preparing special adapted content for them from the beginning of 2026.

Legal basis for the changes

The introduction of these changes is a consequence of implementing a decision by the Constitutional Court. On 1 October, the Saeima adopted the relevant amendments to the law. The new regulation allows the publication of Russian-language content in LSM exclusively in three situations:

• during an emergency situation;
• in a state of exceptional circumstances;
• to refute disinformation that poses a threat to the democracy and statehood of Latvia.