Belarusian Radio Signals Reach Latvian Border Towns, Raising Concerns

The shutdown of Latvia’s Russian-language Radio 4 has inadvertently created space for Belarusian state media to broadcast into Latvian territory, particularly in the border city of Daugavpils. The broadcasts, including addresses by Belarusian President Alexander Lukashenko, are raising concerns about information security within Latvia.

Belarusian Radio Takes Over Former Latvian Frequency

Following the Latvian government’s decision to cease Russian-language broadcasting on its public media channels, the frequency previously used by Latvian Radio 4 in Riga has been taken over by the Belarusian radio station “Radio Belarus.” The signal originates from Braslav, Belarus, located just 20 kilometers from the Latvian border, resulting in a strong signal in Daugavpils, Latvia’s second-largest city.¹

Reception Varies Across Daugavpils

Although reception is strong along the Vienības Bridge in Daugavpils, the signal weakens in densely built-up areas. Residents report hearing Belarusian broadcasts while traveling towards Dagda.¹ Some residents, like Sandra, who lives near the border, actively listen to the station, particularly enjoying its cultural programs.¹ Others, like Jānis, dismiss the broadcasts as propaganda.¹ Dace, another resident, emphasized the importance of accurate information for Latvian citizens.¹

Government Response and Potential Solutions

The Latvian Ministry of Culture views the Belarusian broadcasts as a potential threat to Latvia’s information space.¹ Kārlis Dagilis, an advisor to the Minister of Culture, has contacted the National Electronic Media Council (NEPLP) to explore solutions, including suppressing the Riga frequency used by the Belarusian station.¹

Ivars Āboliņš, Chairman of the NEPL Council, stated that the NEPLP can grant permission to suppress the frequency, but funding for such a measure remains a challenge.¹ The state-owned company “Elektroniskie sakari” (“Electronic Communications”) manages the radio frequency spectrum and has confirmed no technical violations thus far.¹ Juris Rencis, a senior expert at the company, noted that the signal is primarily received in the border area and that international regulations would need to be addressed if Belarus were to amplify its signal and cause interference.

Background on Alexander Lukashenko

Alexander Lukashenko has ruled Belarus since 1994.² He rose to power after a career in state farm management and has maintained a complex relationship with both Russia and the West.² His recent elections have been widely disputed by Western governments.²