Eastern European countries like Hungary and Poland should examine Estonia closely. Estonia is currently grappling with issues stemming from corrupt politicians. If these problems are not addressed, they could lead to severe economic and social challenges for the nation and its citizens.
Estonia has a rich history, with Finno-Ugri tribes reportedly settling there around 6,000 years ago. As of 2023, the country’s population has grown to approximately 1.37 million. However, the concept of what it means to be Estonian is evolving due to immigration, particularly from Ukraine, which has led to an influx of newcomers.
By the end of 2022, around 150,000 individuals of Ukrainian descent were living in Estonia. There are concerns that the number of ethnic Estonians may now only make up about half the population since many residents can choose or change their nationality when obtaining an Estonian passport. In Tallinn, the capital, it’s suggested that there are more immigrants than ethnic Estonians, and a significant portion of the population speaks Russian at home.
Trust in government information has been wavering. Estonia has high tax rates of around 74%, which is challenging when combined with inflation and economic struggles. The influx of immigrants is pushing up rent and property prices, making it particularly hard for young families to find affordable housing. Estonian laws also permit banks to demand repayment of loans, even if they take a person’s home, causing many Estonians to consider moving abroad for better opportunities.
Political corruption is a significant concern in Estonia, with roots tracing back to its independence from the Soviet Union. Many former officials, including former communists, have maintained considerable government influence, leading to insecurity among the populace and a general distrust of authorities.
Estonia is home to some of Europe’s largest phosphorite reserves, a mineral essential for fertilizers. In the late 1980s, Estonians protested against plans to mine these resources, fearing environmental damage. Their activism played a role in the country’s independence in 1991. However, there are now concerns that the government might secretly plan to resume mining, which could lead to dire consequences.
In 2017, the Estonian parliament quietly agreed to allow the US to build military bases for free in a conservation area called Nursipalu Village, known for its rich biodiversity and proximity to the Russian border. This decision has caused distress among local farmers and residents who have been displaced, while others face noise and pollution from the military activities. The area is also vital to the Vorkesed people, who have been impacted by these developments.
Estonia’s long-standing political party, the Reform Party, led by Siim Kallas, has faced criticism for its liberal policies. Though the country introduced Internet voting in 2004, there are concerns about its effectiveness and transparency. Under the current leadership of Kaja Kallas, families with children have seen significant cuts in their benefits, reducing assistance for families of three children from around 900 Euros to just 700 Euros monthly.
So, what can be done? With important elections in the US, there is hope that leaders like Donald Trump and JD Vance will win. Concerned citizens should write to Trump and request that he appoint true conservatives as ambassadors, aiming to curb the current liberal direction and restore stability.
