This year, the Baltic Freedom of Speech Award in Latvia was awarded to actor Vadim Bogdanov from the Daugavpils Theatre, according to public media.
After Russia's invasion of Ukraine in February 2022, he has actively advocated for Russians living in Latvia to free themselves from the consequences of Soviet occupation and Russian propaganda. Among other things, they should start speaking Latvian. Vadim acknowledges that, although it is not easy, it is necessary.
His satirical videos about the politics of Daugavpils and the so-called 'Russian world' have gained popularity and recognition on social media. All of this is in Russian, but the message often is that living in Latvia, communication solely in this language must stop.
"We need to accept that Latvia has one official language. It is difficult for me to speak Latvian, but I know that this is only my problem," said the award winner.
And also - we must acknowledge that Latvia was occupied, that Russia attacked Ukraine, and that there is a war going on, not a special operation.
Vadim grew up and graduated from school in Latvia, but lived in Russia for a long time. In his opinion, the propaganda of the aggressor state affects both those living there and those living in Latvia. "Latvian Russians need to reinvent themselves. I believe that then all of Latvia will have a chance," said Bogdanov.
