Latvian Public Media Gets Funding Boost for Expansion and Digitalization
Unified Latvijna Public Media Set to Launch in 2025
Latvia’s public media landscape is undergoing a significant transformation with the imminent launch of a unified media organization, Latvian Public Media (LSM), scheduled to begin operations on January 1, 2025. This merger of Latvian Radio and Latvian Television comes with a substantial financial commitment, reflecting the nation’s dedication to bolstering public broadcasting services.
In 2025, the Council of Public Electronic Media (SEPLP), the body overseeing the transition, is allocated a budget of 861,520 euros. This includes 83,025 euros specifically earmarked for the establishment of LSM and 40,832 euros for a 2.6% increase in compensation for employees.
While the SEPLP budget is projected to decrease to 778,495 euros annually in 2026 and 2027, the overall funding for public media demonstrates a positive trend.
In 2024, funding for public media totals 47.64 million euros, rising to 70.027 million euros in the next year. This climb in fiscal allocation emphasizes the government’s recognition of the vital role public media plays in informing and engaging the Latvian populace. Notably, 11.979 million euros of this funding is dedicated to Latvian Television’s acquisition of two new mobile television stations (PTS) to enhance its broadcast capabilities.
Reaching European Standards: Investments for the Future
Projected financing for Latvian public media in 2026 and 2027 is slated to be 61.405 million euros, showcasing a continued commitment to its development. However, for LSM to reach the European average level of funding in 2027, an additional 7.267 million euros will be crucial, underscoring the need for ongoing political support for public broadcasting.
Expanding Reach: New Studios and Digital Content
LSM’s ambition extends beyond broadcasting traditional content. In the coming years, the organization plans to establish regional studios in Daugavpils and Liepaja, bringing a stronger public media presence to these cities. The Daugavpils studio is scheduled for completion in 2024, followed by the Liepaja studio in 2027. These studios are expected to boost local content production, catering to diverse regional audiences.
A significant portion of the 2025 budget,5.23 million euros, is earmarked for enhancing digital content creation, developing programs for children and youth, and investing in cinema project
s and new analytical and cultural formats. This investment underscores the dedication to innovating and engaging audiences through the creation of high-quality, contemporary content.
Furthermore, a substantial 20.5 million euros is allocated for technological upgrades – the acquisition of new PTS, the creation and renovation of studios, replacement of equipment, development of digital content solutions, and improvements to office infrastructure.
An additional 20.5 million euros is dedicated to infrastructure needs, including memper security and business continuity initiatives
The decision on whether to renovate existing buildings or construct new buildings will be finalized by the beginning of 2026, further demonstrating a commitment to a robust and future-proof media infrastructure.
How will the increased funding for Latvian Public Media in 2025 benefit the public?
## Latvian Public Media: A New Era Begins
**Interviewer:** Welcome to the program. Today, we’re discussing the exciting changes coming to Latvia’s public media landscape. With me today is [Guest Name], a [Guest Expertise] and close watcher of the media scene in Latvia. [Guest Name], thanks for joining us.
**Guest:** It’s a pleasure to be here.
**Interviewer:** Let’s jump right in. As our viewers may know, 2025 will see the launch of Latvian Public Media, LSM, a merger of Latvian Radio and Latvian Television. Can you tell us a bit about this new organization and what it signifies for the Latvian public?
**Guest:** This is a landmark moment for public broadcasting in Latvia. The creation of LSM signals a commitment to a modern, unified, and digitally robust public media outlet. By combining the strengths of Latvian Radio and Latvian Television, LSM aims to provide high-quality content across various platforms, catering to the ever-evolving needs of Latvian citizens. [[1](https://eng.lsm.lv/article/features/media/30.10.2024-new-latvian-public-media-board-selected.a574582/)]
**Interviewer:** The news about increased funding for public media is encouraging. We’re seeing a significant jump in the budget for 2025. What can we expect to see in terms of tangible improvements with this additional funding?
**Guest:** That’s right! The government’s investment in public media is crucial. The increased budget for 2025, totalling 70 million euros, will support the development and implementation of LSM, ensuring a smooth transition. We can expect improvements in content quality, expansion of digital services, and the acquisition of new technology, like the two new mobile television stations for Latvian Television. [[1](https://eng.lsm.lv/article/features/media/30.10.2024-new-latvian-public-media-board-selected.a574582/)]
**Interviewer:** How important is the launch of LSM and the digitalization efforts within the context of reaching European standards in public broadcasting?
**Guest:** These developments are absolutely crucial. By creating a unified, technologically advanced public media platform, Latvia is taking significant strides towards aligning its broadcasting standards with those of the European Union. This ensures Latvian citizens have access to reliable, impartial, and high-quality information, a cornerstone of a thriving democracy.
**Interviewer:** Exciting times ahead for Latvian Public Media. [Guest Name], thank you so much for sharing your insights with us today.
**Guest:** My pleasure. I believe the future of Latvian public media is bright.
