RIGA, November 30, 2005  –  A new independent department that will keep an eye on discrimination has been set-up by the government in Latvia.  And the National Human Rights Office will be embracing the gay and lesbian community as well as other sections of society as well as racism and other forms of discrimination.

The department will oversee national issues regarding tolerance and will also provide help to individuals who find themselves victims of discrimination.

According to the department, there no large-scale hatred towards minority groups in Latvia.  However, it is admitted that there are low-tolerance levels against gays and lesbians.

Additionally, the department will have a “watchdog” role on the government and Parliament and will be able to initiate inquiries

Last July’s Riga Gay Pride saw high levels of homophobia from a small section of right-wing demonstrators, who were encouraged by the remarks of political leaders.

While homosexuality is legal in Latvia, politicians are often homophobic in their rhetoric, saying what the electorate want to hear them say.

Tomorrow (December 1), the Latvian Parliament is scheduled to discuss the ‘second reading’ of a bill would change the country’s constitution to include the banning of same-sex marriage.  It is expected that this Bill will pass through the legislative process, which requires a 75% or better vote in favour to pass.