Stenbock House, 1 May 2024 – Today, Estonia marks its 20th anniversary as a Member State of the European Union (EU). The membership has broadened opportunities for Estonians in terms of mobility, work, and study, bolstered general welfare and the economy, and fortified national security. With 84% of the Estonian population supporting EU membership, Estonia has significantly contributed to the EU’s innovative initiatives and digital development, actively participating in the Union’s security policy.
“Estonia’s accession to the European Union has been a success story, enabling us to now assist other countries, including Ukraine, in their journey towards EU membership,” emphasised Prime Minister Kaja Kallas. “The European Union is constantly evolving, and for 20 years, we have played a significant role in shaping this development. We are trusted partners; our opinions are valued, and our views are considered.”
The Prime Minister highlighted that the Estonian economy and average salaries have increased nearly four times since joining the EU. “With the support of the European Union, we have made substantial investments in various areas of our country’s development and infrastructure, ensuring a high quality of life and safety for our people in Estonia.”
Foreign Minister Margus Tsahkna underscored Estonia’s commitment to promoting EU openness and highlighted the security aspects of EU membership. “Belonging to the European family has provided Estonia with the assurance that we will never stand alone again. Today, this assurance is particularly crucial now, as Russia’s ongoing brutal aggression in Ukraine has proven that gray areas in Europe only motivate Russia to continue with the imperialist war of conquest. Therefore, we firmly support the continuation of the European Union’s open-door policy and are ready to share our experiences of EU accession with other countries aspiring to join the European Union family, including Ukraine, Moldova, and several Balkan countries,” said Tsahkna.
Minister of the Interior, Lauri Läänemets, pointed out that despite Estonia’s lengthy membership, the country continues to find great role models within the EU to guide its social development. “Estonia’s EU membership serves as daily affirmation of our belonging to Europe alongside other independent and successful nations. Over the past 20 years, our membership has significantly contributed to the development of Estonian society and the state, as well as to enhancement of our people’s well-being. However, there is still much work to be done. Our overall well-being has increased, but it has not been equally distributed to everyone. Therefore, our EU membership serves as a daily reminder of the ongoing need for effort – because as a nation, we don’t measure ourselves against other countries who were forced with us under Soviet occupation, but rather against Northern and Western Europe. In this comparison, we are fortunate to have numerous role models to inspire us in advocating for equality, rights, and democracy.”
As Estonia celebrates this significant milestone, it also acknowledges its responsibility to offer support to those aspiring to join the European Union, including Ukraine, drawing on its own experiences.
