LU konferenceZane Akmene
Discourses Used in Explaining the Language Education Policy “United School”
Keywords:language policy in education; global discourses; minority education, critical discourse analysis
Public discourses reflected in policy documents and materials issued by the Ministry of Education and Science of the Republic of Latvia, as well as private discourses represented in minority school leaders’ interviews reveal the impact of global discourses (such as globalization, neoliberalism, standardization, and nationalism discourses) on implementation and significance of language education policy “United School”. Instead of aligning with global discourses in education policy, the study of local discourses allows for the identification of issues unique to Latvia’s language education policy.
Ina Druviete
Language Endangerment as Reality or Assumption: The Impact of a Popular Narrative on the Resilience of the Latvian Language
Keywords: language maintenance, language loss, endangered languages, language situation, language policy, the Latvian language
The article is dedicated to examining the prevalence of the assumption that the Latvian language is endangered and the possible impact of this belief on the language’s resilience. The notion of language endangerment in the Latvian public sphere has been present since at least the mid-nineteenth century; however, it gained particular prominence following the restoration of Latvia’s independence, becoming evident in legislation, academic discourse, journalistic writing, and everyday communication. It may imply a trend of language loss as well as a diminishing role of the language in culture and identity awareness.
The rhetoric of language endangerment is pronounced in Latvian public discourse and reinforced by the regular inclusion of this theme in sociolinguistic surveys and its reflection in the media. This perception should not be dismissed merely as the conviction of isolated individuals or as a habitual tradition of sociolinguistic research. Scientific studies of the Latvian language also examine issues related to its potential endangerment, including the possible linguistic assimilation of Latvian speakers, language death, or at least the loss of certain sociolinguistic functions.
The frequently asked question, “Is the Latvian language endangered?” cannot be answered simply with “Yes!” or “No!”. Objective parameters of the language situation (such as the number of speakers, language proficiency, etc.) are quantitatively measurable, and the content of normative acts and strategic documents can be assessed through document analysis. However, in Latvia’s language situation – marked by intense language competition and a language hierarchy that does not always reflect the concept of a state language, especially in informal communication – subjective factors become even more significant. These include linguistic attitudes, behaviour, traditions, and the like, which critically influence the role of language as a factor of social cohesion.
If society senses that such a crucial element of national identity as language is being questioned or diminished, it may mobilize to defend the language – manifested in the conscious use of Latvian in interactions with members of other language groups. From the speakers’ perspective, the emotional and symbolic value of the language increases, particularly when encouraged by opinion leaders. On the other hand, the rhetoric of endangerment may reduce the standing of the language among members of other linguistic communities, thereby discouraging its learning and use. Thus, the narrative of language endangerment must be evaluated in a broader context in each specific case.
Līga Feldmane
Public Attitudes Toward Foreign Students: Regional Mosaic
Keywords: foreign students, public attitude, regional differences, internationalization of higher education, student mobility
The presence of international students, both worldwide and in Latvia, is a continuously growing trend that leaves distinct imprints on society, fostering intercultural dynamics, changes in demographic structure, and potentially influencing national economic development. To ensure a positive contribution by international students, their satisfaction during the studies is paramount, and the local community can play a vital role in fostering this. The study provides insight into the attitude of Latvian society towards international students, particularly highlighting regional differences and their impact on the perception of international students’ influence on local safety, economy, and integration processes. Overall, it was found that a neutral attitude towards international students dominates in society, which often indicates a lack of information or direct contact. Analysing the data by region, it was revealed that Riga stands out as the most polarized region and the city, where, although there is a higher proportion of positive evaluations regarding international students’ contribution to the economy, a more pronounced negative attitude is simultaneously observed, especially concerning the perception of safety and overall impact on the place of residence. This could be related to the fact that Riga has the highest concentration of international students and, consequently, more frequent interaction with diverse cultures, which can lead to both positive and negative experiences.
Petro Katerynych
From Silence to Sirens: Cinematic Rhythms in Ukraine’s Landscapes of War
Keywords: post-Soviet memory, cinematic time, ruins, Ukrainian cinema, collective identity
This article explores the concept of architectural memory preserved in urban ruins and monuments, and how cinematic time – the temporal structuring of narrative and imagery on screen – resituates these memories for contemporary audiences. Through analyses of three films – war documentary “20 Days in Mariupol” (2023), dystopian drama “Atlantis” (2019), and modern road-movie comedy “My Thoughts Are Silent” (2019) – the study highlights the rhythm in ruins, the interplay between decaying structures, historical remembrance, and cinematic storytelling. The article discusses broader cultural shifts in Ukraine under the ongoing war, including the renegotiation of identity, toponymy, and distancing from the Russian cultural sphere. This inquiry foregrounds cinema as both artistic and social practice that navigates nostalgia, trauma, and the quest for meaning amidst landscapes marked by turbulent history.
Ineta Kivle
Constructed Solidarity Versus the Liminal State: Simulacra and Icons
Keywords: solidarity, cohesion, liminality, simulacrum, icon, authenticity and destruction
The paper is dedicated to examining the phenomenon of solidarity by distinguishing between authentic, communal experience and constructed, coercive unity. Drawing on Victor Turner’s concept of communitas, solidarity is explored in the context of liminality – a transitional state in which a deep, unstructured sense of unity emerges. Such liminal moments, like the restoration of Latvia’s independence, have the power to unite more profoundly than any formal system. Liminality is understood as a threshold experience, where the potential for genuine mutual attunement arises. In contrast, the article analyses destructive solidarity – an imposed, ideologically driven unity based on functionality and obedience. The discussion views examples of simulacra and icons, showing how sacred images lose their transcendent content and become tools of collective identity formation, in opposition to existentially grounded unity, which is only possible in an open environment, not within structures of power.
Maija Kūle
Does the Theme of Cohesion have Philosophical Justifications? From Hegel’s Logic to Žižek’s Philosophy Today
Keywords: logic, rationality, integration, social cohesion, Kant, Hegel, neo-Hegelians, Sartre, Žižek
Integration programmes in Latvia since 2000 have been socially and politically oriented, whereas the cohesion programme, which is a more culturally grounded approach, brings to the foreground the question: How can cohesion in Latvian society be achieved? Since both the societal integration programmes and the cohesion programme documents fall within the domain of national-level legislation, their philosophical foundations have not been discussed in Latvia. This article presents an analysis of how the following question is addressed in Kant’s logic and apriorism, in Hegel’s universal conception of the concept, and in the neo-Hegelian tradition in France: What unites us as human beings? Is it rationality, universality of the notions, or existential feelings, or perhaps Nothing unites us – since, according to Sartre’s views, freedom lies in negativity.
The article offers an explanation of the author’s concept of the Age of Will, the role of will in shaping the world-picture and in the politics of power, as well as the influence of philosopher Slavoj Žižek on contemporary understandings of the cohesion.
Māris Kūlis
Social Cohesion in Latvia: Philosophical Foundations, Ideological Contradictions, and Contemporary Challenges
Keywords: social cohesion, identity, justice, sustainable community
This article explores the philosophical foundations, ideological tensions, and contemporary challenges of social cohesion in Latvia. It is argued that the concept of cohesion is not ideologically neutral but deeply rooted in competing philosophical traditions and social imaginaries. Drawing on classical and modern thinkers, the text outlines three conceptual models of cohesion: equality and inclusion, social capital and trust networks, and functional institutional integration. Each model reflects distinct assumptions about what binds society together: shared values, interpersonal trust, or instrumental cooperation. Then it is examined how modern processes such as urbanization, individualism, and digitalization have eroded traditional forms of community and intensified fragmentation, offering a critical reflection on Latvia’s post-Soviet experience, navigating between ethnonationalist and civic-inclusive paradigms, with particular attention to language policy, historical memory, and institutional trust. Despite state efforts to promote unity, the persistence of parallel cultural and linguistic spheres highlights the complexity of forging a cohesive society. The paper contends that true cohesion cannot be imposed from above but must emerge from lived experience and mutual recognition. It emphasizes the ethical dimension of cohesion – respect, justice, and empathy – as central to any sustainable community. In conclusion, the text urges a rethinking of cohesion not as uniformity but as a shared horizon of meaning rooted in everyday life, where individuals encounter each other as equals and co-creators of a common world.
Rihards Kūlis
The Russian World: From the Idea of Messianism to Schizoideas
Keywords: “Russian World”, cultural forms, imperialism, messianism, schizoideas
In this article, I aim to develop several key arguments:
One of the ideological cornerstones of Russian imperialism is the idea of messianism, which is intrinsically connected to Russia’s historically evolved cultural forms. Each of these forms, taken individually, is not an autonomous entity but rather functions organically within a broader whole – as part of an inseparable network of formative structures.
The unfolding of imperialist ideology (not limited to the Russian case), as history has repeatedly demonstrated, inevitably leads to a weakening of rationality in the worldview and to the production of ideas that are inadequate to reality – I refer to these in this article as schizoideas.
In dismantling both the illusory – and, simultaneously, very real – structures of imperial ideas and the “schizoworld”, a special role may be played by informational and educational activities (potentially on a global scale). Genuine social cohesion can only emerge on the basis of at least partially shared values and a relatively unifying understanding of truth (which also encompasses difference). Yet, the harsh and at times comical scenes outlined in this article may appear incomprehensible or even distasteful to some readers.
This article is not intended as a self-serving confrontation with any particular ethnic or social group. However, when one must choose between a totalitarian and a democratically oriented society, confrontation becomes inevitable.
Maja Soboleva
The Return of the Grand Inquisitor
Keywords: Russia, Ukraine, war, Russian soul, myth of Russian Leviathan
Since 24 February 2022, many people have been in a state of perpetual shock. Trouble came from an unexpected side, and Russians were divided overnight into participants, accomplices, witnesses, or accusers of the assault on Ukraine. The reasons given by President Putin for the so-called “special military operation” are purely discursive; they can only satisfy the part of society that for decades has been under the influence of state propaganda that produced the myth of a new Russian Leviathan. These reasons are well known and need not be repeated here, especially because they are constantly changing. However, one need not be a (political) psychologist to assert that the actions of any subject are grounded in their corresponding mentality, and that the bearer of the collective mentality is both the government machinery and society as a whole. Russia’s aggression against Ukraine is thus a symptom of the intellectual state of the entire society. A simple argument in favour of this assertion can be the formula (using the rather apt terms in which Lenin formulated his theory of revolution) “those at the top cannot do anything if those at the bottom do not will it done.” The assumption here is that society, even if only to a certain extent, is an integral organism, and, therefore, its external manifestations reflect its internal dispositions. The author aims to look into the secrets of the contemporary “Russian soul” to understand why the seemingly impossible – aggression against an independent state – has become possible. The author does not maintain that this analysis is fully scientific; some assertions must be verified, for example, by means of sociological research. Rather, this chapter embraces reflections of a person deeply hurt by these tragic events.
Elvīra Šimfa
Laughter and Tears: The Understanding of the Comic and the Tragic in Latvian Society and Their Role in Latvian Social Cohesion
Keywords: laughter, humour, sorrow, freedom, ideology, social cohesion
It is believed that a shared laughter and understanding of what is humorous and a similar sense of humour, as well as shared sorrow, can unite members of a community. In this context, it is worth exploring how humour and tragedy, the comic and the sorrowful, differ, and what conclusions can be drawn from these differences with regard to a particular society. The article examines prominent views of the comic and the sorrowful, emphasizing the understanding of laughter as an expression of individual freedom and sovereignty. Given this understanding of laughter, there is no reason to assume that a community in which people are more united by sorrow rather than humour and laughter – as is often said about Latvian society – has a lower level of social cohesion.
Inese Šūpule
The People of Latvia or the Latvian Nation? Understanding the Concept of “People of Latvia” from the Perspective of Latvia’s Inhabitants
Keywords: ethnic diversity, ethnic nationalism, civic nationalism, Latvia
The People of Latvia is a civic concept used in the Constitution of Latvia. According to the Constitution, the People of Latvia are the sovereign and the foundation of the state, encompassing both the Latvian nation and members of other ethnic and national communities who are connected to Latvia through legal citizenship (Kusiņš, 2022). In this interpretation, the concept of “People of Latvia” emphasizes civic belonging and is, in a sense, an inclusive definition that certainly promotes social cohesion. At the same time, in everyday usage and in public surveys, the concept of “People of Latvia” may be interpreted differently, sometimes being narrowed down to mean only the “Latvian nation”.
To understand the openness of different groups of Latvia’s inhabitants to the inclusive approach defined in the Constitution, the question of the People of Latvia was posed in a representative survey of Latvia’s population. The analysis is based on data representing the population of Latvia, comparing responses from surveys conducted in 2010 and 2024 regarding which groups of inhabitants are understood to be included in the “People of Latvia”.
Survey data show that ethnic Latvians are more inclined to draw boundaries regarding which groups of inhabitants should be considered part of the People of Latvia, compared to representatives of other ethnicities living in Latvia. However, it is important to emphasize that not only ethnic affiliation but also citizenship, a sense of belonging to the state, and proficiency in the Latvian language are among the most significant principles shaping the perception of belonging to the People of Latvia both among ethnic Latvians and other ethnic groups residing in Latvia.
Vladislavs Volkovs, Inese Ratanova
Organizational Culture in Latvian Companies from Ethnic Perspective
Keywords: organizational culture, rationality, cohesion, team building, socio-economic factors, economic actors, ethnic identity
The authors of the current article set themselves the goal of showing how the organizational culture that has developed in Latvian enterprises and organizations promotes the spread of typical economic behavioural norms and values among Latvians and ethnic minorities. The organizational culture of enterprises ensures the effectiveness of such economic or management activities that implement certain strategies of rational behaviour of economic actors. Therefore, the most important feature of organizational culture is the rationality of its values and norms, which economic actors accept, confirm and implement in their behaviour in the enterprise and organization. An integral part of the research methodology of this article was the theory of rationality as a way of implementing effective social activity and a way of constructing social integration of communities that achieve economic and socio-cultural success, competing with other social actors. The sociological study was organized within the framework of the State Research Programme “Development of a cohesive and civically active society” project “Vectors of societal cohesion: from cohesion around the nation-state (2012–2018) to a cohesive civic community for the security of the state, society and individuals (2024–2025)” (No. VPP-KM-SPASA-2023/1-0002), in 6–15 January 2025. Conducting an online survey on employee cohesion in economic activity in the target group of Latvian employed persons – employees and employers. The total sample in the survey – n=1008. The sample was formed according to gender, age and place of residence quotas. Most of the organizational culture parameters of Latvians and ethnic minorities that concern them coincide, which indicates a high degree of integration of these population groups into common values and norms determined by the economic space in Latvia. However, the content of these organizational cultural features of the Latvian population is related to their attitude towards values that are oriented towards achieving goals, which are determined by the very nature of the economic and production tasks of the enterprise and the organization. In situations that actualize their national and ethnic identity values in the business and interpersonal communication of employees, ethnic differences arise in the understanding of the existing organizational cultural practices. At the same time, the study revealed that the greatest differences in terms of organizational cultural values and norms, existing management practices in organizations and enterprises are related to the level of education of the respondents, gender differences and areas of professional employment.
Saliedētības vektori. Sast., zin. red. I. Kivle, M. Kūlis. Rīga: LU Akadēmiskais apgāds, 2026, 200 lpp.