According to a decision by the President of Latvia and Chapter of Orders on 20 April 2021, the Order of Three Stars has been awarded to 63 individuals, the Order of Viesturs to 16 individuals and the Cross of Recognition to 39 individuals.
"With [the] 31st anniversary of the restoration of independence of Latvia approaching, highest state honors are awarded to individuals whose outstanding service to the state of Latvia and its people, selfless dedication to their professional goals in the field of healthcare, education and culture has contributed to the strengthening of the democracy, rule of law, security and prosperity in Latvia," said the announcement of the awards.
As usual the awards go to a variety of professions, but the list is notable for featuring several high-profile journalists alongside the doctors, diplomats, academics businesspeople, artists and musicians.
The editor of the Ir news weekly, Nellija Ločmele, distinguished political columnist Aivars Ozoliņš and high-profile TV presenter Jānis Domburs are among the recipients, as are Latvian Radio presenters Eduards Liniņš and Aidis Tomsons.
Inga Spriņģe of the Baltic Center for Investigative Journalism also gets an award, as does LTV journalist Inga Šņore.
According to the decision of the Chapter of Orders, state honors are awarded to journalists who have played an important role in the strengthening of democracy and the quality of the national information space.
"Their professionalism has been pivotal in promoting responsible journalism and a diverse media landscape, which are crucial in democracy," said the annoucement.
"The common traits in all recipients of state honours are courage, dedication, high professional standards, perseverance, empathy towards others, drive to create positive change in Latvia in the long run."
As a result of the national restrictions imposed due to the spread of the pandemic, the Chapter of Orders will decide on the date for the award ceremony as soon as these safety measures are lifted.
The full list of award-winners is available (in Latvian) via the links on this webpage.
Additional information about the high state honors, who is eligible for which award and the procedures for handing them out is available on the webpage of the Chancery of the President of Latvia.
Congratulations to all those named.
