A/HRC/7/19/Add.3 page 11 law recognizes the right of different communities to use their native language, it sets language policy as a means to ensure the integration of members of ethnic minorities into the society of Latvia and the increased influence of the Latvian language in the cultural environment of Latvia. 35. The Law recognizes Latvian as the official state language and no specific provisions for minority languages are contained in the Law. It establishes that the exclusive use of Latvian is compulsory in any public institution as well as in private institutions performing activities of legitimate public interest. Communications with public institutions are normally required to be carried out in Latvian. The Law also establishes that the names of all persons living in Latvia, including non-citizens, need to be presented in identification documents according to Latvian language norms. 36. The monitoring of the Official Language Law and implementation of the language policy is conducted by the State Language Center, which operates under the aegis of the Ministry of Justice. Particular violations of the Law are also established in the Administrative Violations Code, including cases of private institutions with a legitimate public interest. B. Policies and programmes to combat racism, racial discrimination, xenophobia and related intolerance 37. According to Latvian authorities, the legal and institutional framework, including the central role played by the Office of the Ombudsman, are only one part of the fight against racism and discrimination. The second form of action concerns positive initiatives that aim to promote tolerance, respect for diversity and, ultimately, integration of racial, ethnic and religious minorities in Latvian society. This includes specific integration measures as well as broader efforts carried out in other areas, particularly education. 38. The overarching policy to promote the integration in Latvia is carried out by the Secretariat of the Special Assignment Minister for Social Integration. This Government body, headed by a Cabinet Minister, is responsible for the implementation of the National Programme for the Integration of Society, either directly or in concert with other Governmental institutions including the Ministries of Education and Science, Culture, Children and Family Affairs - whose actions have a direct impact on ethnic or racial minorities. It also implements the National Tolerance Programme 2005-2009 and the National Action Plan “Roma in Latvia 2007-2009”. The Secretariat is also responsible for the implementation of different international instruments pertaining to racism and minorities, including transposing the EU Race Directive, as well as for the drafting of anti-discrimination legislation. 39. The Secretariat collaborates closely with non-governmental organizations (NGOs), in particular community organizations, to develop actions aimed at preserving their cultural identity, promote integration and respect for cultural diversity. It created a network of NGOs, funded by the Secretariat, which is regularly consulted and decides on the type of integration actions that will be implemented. Consultation with civil society was highlighted by the Secretariat as a key ingredient of the success of these initiatives. Two main consultative bodies were created to promote consultation with civil society: (a) a council on ethno-political issues composed of delegates sent by some 150 NGOs; (b) the Minister’s Advisory Board, composed of 17 members who represent regional NGOs, ethnic minorities, journalists, human rights experts and a delegate representing Russian schools.