Belarusian radio signals now reaching Latvia's capital and border cities
Belarusian radio broadcasts are now reaching parts of Latvia, including Riga and Daugavpils, after taking over a frequency once used by Latvijas Radio 4. The signal, transmitted from Braslav near the Latvian border, has raised concerns among officials about potential interference and information security.
The frequency in question was left unused after Latvian public broadcasting shut down Radio 4's Russian-language programme in 2023. Since then, Radio Belarus has begun transmitting on it, with reception varying across Latvia. In Daugavpils, residents report hearing the broadcasts, while in Riga, signal quality depends on conditions.
Latvia's National Electronic Media Council (NEPLP) and the State Radio and Television Centre (LVRTC) are now examining ways to block the Riga frequency. While no technical violations have been found by the state-owned company Elektroniskie sakari, the Ministry of Culture views the broadcasts as a possible threat to Latvia's information space.
International rules regulate radio wave distribution, as signals do not stop at borders. If Belarus increases its transmission power and disrupts Latvian stations, Latvia could pursue action under these agreements. So far, the broadcasts have not breached power or technical limits set by regional regulators.
The unused frequency has allowed Belarusian radio to extend its reach into Latvia without violating current technical standards. Authorities continue monitoring the situation, with options for international intervention if interference occurs. For now, the broadcasts remain accessible in border regions and parts of Riga.
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