Latvia bans Russian language in ATMs

The Saeima (the unicameral parliament) of Latvia has passed amendments to the law on banks in its final reading, banning the use of the Russian language in the country’s ATMs.

ATMs operated by banks must now display the Latvian language. Additionally, the machines may also feature the official languages of member states of the European Union (EU), the Organisation for Economic Cooperation and Development (OECD), and candidate countries for membership in these organisations, Caliber.Az reports, citing foreign media.

The aim of the amendments is to ensure access to cash for residents throughout Latvia. The amendments also envisage minimum requirements for customers of banks to withdraw cash from their accounts. Cashless transactions are becoming the primary payment method in Latvia. However, despite the rise in e-payments, cash remains relevant.

According to a survey by the Bank of Latvia, cash payments accounted for an average of 23 per cent of everyday transactions in February 2024. The Ministry of Finance emphasises that the importance of cash accessibility increases when payment systems are unavailable. At the same time, the infrastructure for cash withdrawals has significantly diminished. The number of bank branches and cash centres where people can access cash has recently decreased.

By Naila Huseynova