On April 7, the Saeima supported the submission to the Human Rights and Public Affairs Commission of the bill, which will still require Saeima approval in two readings to come into force.
The bill stipulates that the people and soldiers of Ukraine who have suffered and died as a result of the Russian invasion will be honored on this day, and that festive events will be banned.
According to the proposals, the Latvian flag should be displayed in mourning mode on buildings on this day, and the flag of Ukraine should be placed on Rīga Castle, the main building of the Saeima and the Cabinet of Ministers.
The draft law stipulates that on this day state and local government institutions shall not organize public entertainment and festive events, local governments shall not issue permits for the organization of public events and shall revoke permits already issued for events by refunding the fees paid. Effectively this bans any May 9 Soviet 'Victory Day' events
The law would expire on May 11, 2022.