The 2025 study Value spaces, identity, and use of local services among migrants in Tallinn, conducted by the Institute of Baltic Studies and commissioned by the Tallinn Migration Centre, examines how recently arrived migrants experience life in Tallinn, adapt to daily life, and engage with public services. Using narrative analysis, the research captures personal stories, emotions, and adaptation experiences, complementing statistical data.
Findings show that migrants generally view Tallinn as secure, comfortable, and offering high living standards. Persistent challenges include social barriers, language difficulties, high living costs, and limited cultural openness. Addressing these issues could improve the city’s attractiveness and competitiveness, while supporting stronger integration and inclusion for current and future immigrant populations.
Research on residents with undetermined citizenship
A recent report by the Institute of Baltic Studies examines Estonia’s TCN residents with undetermined citizenship (“grey passport” holders), focusing on identity, naturalisation intent, and barriers to acquiring Estonian citizenship. Commissioned by the Ministry of Culture and the Integration Foundation, the study combines surveys and interviews to map attitudes and practical challenges.
Findings indicate strong intent to naturalise: about 65% hope to secure Estonian citizenship, and roughly 79% would choose it if unrestricted. Around 15% plan to apply within a year, and 40–45% within five years. The main obstacle is the Estonian-language requirement, compounded by limited information, time, and financial constraints.
Attachment to Estonia is found to be high, with most respondents intending to remain long-term. However, perceptions of stigma and public framing as “second-class” citizens reduce motivation. The report emphasises practical support, clear guidance, and positive outreach to facilitate TCN integration through naturalisation.
Review of first year of reform in Russian-language schools
Estonia began transitioning Russian-language schools to Estonian-language instruction in the 2024/2025 school year, starting with kindergartens and 1st and 4th grades, with full implementation planned for 2029/2030. Monitoring in Tallinn shows limited gaps in student performance: 1st-grade averages were 26.75/37 in transition schools versus 28.13/37 in Estonian-language schools; 4th-grade averages were 29.12/55 versus 31.42/55.
Tartu’s gradual transition plan aims for completion by 2025/26, supported by annual monitoring and collaboration with schools, parents, and experts. A parent survey indicated awareness of the reform and recognition of future opportunities, alongside concerns about workload, academic performance, and teacher availability. Teacher readiness remains the key challenge, with over 1 800 teachers yet to meet required Estonian-language qualifications, though 61% are enrolled in language courses to meet deadlines by August 2025.
Changes to local election voting rights for non-citizens
Estonia adopted a constitutional amendment removing local election voting rights for third-country nationals (TCNs). EU citizens retain voting rights, while stateless residents were able to vote in 2025 municipal elections but will lose eligibility in future cycles. The reform changes the framework for civic participation of TCNs, particularly long-term residents previously engaged in local decision-making.
Public debate reflects differing views on the implications for integration. Supporters link the measure to state security and constitutional stability, while others highlight its relevance for discussion on the inclusion and participation of non-citizen residents. A year after the 2025 local elections, the impact on TCN integration remains under observation, particularly regarding participation patterns and longer-term social cohesion.