Denis knew from childhood that his life was connected to Estonia. He was born, studied, and developed his personality here. Despite years of living with the so-called grey passport, he made the conscious decision to obtain Estonian citizenship, feeling that the time had come to finally define his place in the world.
"For a long time, I thought a grey passport was enough for me: I could travel freely to Europe, Russia, and other countries," says Denis. "But over time, I realized that I wanted to fully be part of the society I live in. Moreover, my Estonian friends constantly asked me why I was ignoring this opportunity."
His friends, in fact, played a key role in his decision. Their support helped Denis confidently navigate all the stages of preparation and exams. "One of my acquaintances said, 'Listen, you just have to do it.' I realized he was right. Sometimes, decisions come exactly at such moments."
Preparation for the exams turned out to be relatively easy for Denis. He had been hearing Estonian spoken since childhood and often practiced the language with his friends. Nevertheless, the courses ended up being useful: "Grammar lessons were the most useful to me. Even my Estonian friends often don’t know all the rules, and I figured them out with the help of wonderful teachers. Studying was not a burden, but a pleasure."
However, the path to citizenship coincided with a difficult period: the war, volunteering, and work — all of this took a lot of time. "There were moments when I wanted to give it all up," admits Denis. "But the support of friends, teachers, and the program itself helped me keep going. I felt that I was not alone."
Denis emphasizes that the learning process was not only a necessity for him but also a truly interesting experience. In the classes, he met other participants in the program, each of whom was moving toward their own goal. "It was inspiring. We shared advice and supported each other. There was an amazing atmosphere in the group where no one felt like a stranger."
After successfully passing the exams, Denis was filled with joy and pride. "When I told my friends that I had passed, they joyfully exclaimed, 'Tere tulemast!' (Welcome!). It was a big moment for me because I became a member of a community that I always felt I was part of."
Participation in the program helped Denis reaffirm his decision to stay in Estonia. "I was born here, and my heart will always stay with this country." The program not only opened up new opportunities for him but also helped him fully realize that Estonia is the place where his roots, friends, and home are.
For future Estonian citizens
The Integration Foundation, in cooperation with the Ministry of the Interior, supports foreigners in applying for Estonian citizenship. To this end, the foundation offers opportunities to learn Estonian at the required level (B1) for free, prepare for the citizenship exam, and provides advice on related issues. All the interested are welcome to a consultation at first: https://integratsioon.ee/en/language-training-apply-estonian-citizenship
For Fareed Ud Din Taimoor, the path to Estonian citizenship was not just a legal process—it was a deeply personal and transformative journey. His story began in 2015, inspired by friends who had studied at TalTech University. Watching their achievements on social media, he envisioned a similar future for himself. The idea of receiving high-quality, free education in Europe seemed like a dream. Encouraged by a close friend, Taimoor decided to take the leap and move to Estonia.
Arriving as a young student from Pakistan, Taimoor faced a number of challenges from the start. Adapting to a new culture, living away from family, and navigating a language so different from his own—all of it was daunting. But he approached these obstacles with determination, knowing that this opportunity could change his life.
The journey to citizenship required Taimoor to master the Estonian language and pass a series of exams. Language learning was particularly difficult at first. “Estonian was nothing like any language I had encountered before,” Taimoor shared.
This is where the citizenship preparation program provided critical support. Taimoor had access to well-structured language courses and study materials that guided him step by step. The flexibility of the program allowed him to learn at his own pace, making the process less overwhelming. In addition to the language courses, the program offered guidance on preparing for exams and integrating into Estonian society.
What made the biggest difference for Taimoor was the personalized approach. The program’s mentors and instructors were always available to answer questions, clarify doubts, and offer encouragement. “Without their support, it would have been much harder to stay on track,” he admits.
The program, designed for individuals seeking Estonian citizenship, runs twice a year, from March to June and from September to December. It offers a hybrid format with both in-person classes (usually held in Narva) and online sessions. Participants receive not only language instruction but also training in understanding Estonian laws and culture. The structured yet flexible nature of the program helps individuals balance their studies with work and personal commitments.
There were moments when the journey felt overwhelming. Balancing work, studies, and preparation for exams was not easy. But Taimoor kept reminding himself why he started this journey. The program’s structured approach and resources kept him motivated, as did the realization that every step forward was bringing him closer to his goal.
The program’s community aspect was also a source of motivation. Being surrounded by others who were on the same journey created a sense of camaraderie and mutual encouragement. Taimoor found inspiration in their stories and successes, which fueled his determination to push through even during tough times.
When Taimoor finally received his Estonian passport, it was a moment of immense pride and relief. It was not just a document—it symbolized years of hard work, perseverance, and personal growth. Citizenship brought with it a sense of belonging and the freedom to pursue dreams without barriers.
For Taimoor, the benefits of Estonian citizenship are clear. It has opened doors to professional opportunities and secured his future in a country he now calls home. More importantly, it has strengthened his connection to Estonia, a country that welcomed him and gave him the chance to grow.
To those considering this journey, Taimoor offers simple but powerful advice: “Don’t let fear or doubt stop you. The process is challenging, but it’s worth it. Take the first step, stay consistent, and believe in yourself.” He also emphasizes the importance of utilizing the program’s resources. “The support they provide is invaluable—it makes the entire process much more manageable.”
Fareed’s story is a testament to the power of resilience and the importance of support systems. It’s a reminder that even the most daunting journeys can lead to incredible achievements, as long as one is willing to take the first step and never give up.
For future Estonian citizens
The Integration Foundation, in cooperation with the Ministry of the Interior, supports foreigners in applying for Estonian citizenship. To this end, the foundation offers opportunities to learn Estonian at the required level (B1) for free, prepare for the citizenship exam, and provides advice on related issues. All the interested are welcome to a consultation at first: https://integratsioon.ee/en/language-training-apply-estonian-citizenship
Today, on 10 December, the Ministry of Culture and the Integration Foundation announced the winners of the integration awards. The awards for supporting the development of integration were given to choir conductor Hirvo Surva, singer Alika Milova, Anne Suislep, Education Manager at the Foundation of Haapsalu and Läänemaa Museums, Aleksandr Dusman, Head of Ida-Viru Round Table of National Minorities, and the editorial staff of the ETV+ TV channel.
This year, the Integration Foundation and the Ministry of Culture granted awards to people and organisations supporting the development of integration for the twenty-fifth time. In line with the Year of Cultural Diversity, a special prize dedicated to the thematic year was added to the four existing categories.
Minister of Culture Heidy Purga believes that the integration awards are a valuable tradition. ‘Estonia, the country we all share, is diverse and home to different cultures, languages, and traditions. Through integration, we create a more cohesive society where everyone can play a part in shaping our common future,’ said Heidy Purga, recognising the winners of the award.
The winners of the integration awards were selected by a committee of experts of the field from among fifty candidates submitted by Estonian people and organisations in the course of the public competition this year.
The jury awarded the Bridge Builder of the Year title to choirmaster Hirvo Surva, the Spark of the Year title to Estonian singer Alika Milova, the Messenger of the Year title to the editorial staff of ETV+, the Building Blocks of Integration award to Aleksandr Dusman, Head of Ida-Viru Round Table of National Minorities, and the Special Prize of the Year of Cultural Diversity to Anne Suislep, Education Manager at the Foundation of Haapsalu and Läänemaa Museums. In addition to a commendation and a certificate, each winner of the integration prize will also receive a prize of 1,000 euros.
According to Dmitri Moskovtsev, Head of the Integration Foundation, consistent activities and new initiatives are both important in the field of integration. ‘Both the winners and the candidates have valuable experiences and inspiring stories to share and by taking lessons from them, we can build on our work together for a more cohesive society,’ said Dmitri Moskovtsev at the presentation of the integration awards.
All the people and organisations in Estonia will get a new opportunity to submit candidates for the integration award in September next year.
WINNERS OF THE INTEGRATION AWARDS
Bridgebuilder of the Year – HIRVO SURVA
The ‘Bridge Builder of the Year’ category recognises cooperation projects aimed at Estonians and residents with a first language other than Estonian.
As the artistic director of the Estonian Music Council’s spectacular ViruLaul24 music project, Hirvo Surva helped to unite young people from Ida-Viru County in joint cultural activities. Within the framework of the project, a joint choir of students from schools in Ida-Viru County and Tallinn was formed, preparing and performing choral songs together with the Narva City Symphony Orchestra at concerts in Kohtla-Järve, Narva, and Toila dedicated to the Day of Restoration of Independence 2024. Hirvo Surva is the author and organiser of many unifying initiatives, but this year’s ViruLaul24 deeply touched all participants and attendees (including through the media). With this project, he really brought the youth of Ida-Viru County closer to Estonian culture, music, and language, but also Estonian youth to our diverse cultural life.
Spark of the Year – ALIKA MILOVA
The ‘Spark of the Year’ category recognises individuals or organisations for their outstanding work in the field of integration.
Alika Milova is an Estonian singer who has successfully participated in many singing competitions and represented Estonia at Eurovision 2023. Alika is a young, talented, and popular singer who is proud of her Narva and Ida-Viru origins. Supporting Alika brought Estonia together as one united heart in the lead-up to Eurovision. Everybody knows that Alika represented Estonia at Eurovision, but her activities following Eurovision are probably less well known. She takes part in music events and projects that bring together different communities. For example, several collaborative projects with different singers or a concert programme of songs related to the heritage of her ancestors in collaboration with Arno Tamm, which was performed at the Folk Music Festival. With her contagiously bright personality, Alika breaks down preconceptions and sparks inspiration to strive for dreams together.
Messenger of the Year – for the ETV+ PROGRAMME KEELEVESKI
The Messenger of the Year category recognises the promotion of integration through the media.
The TV programme Keeleveski, consisting of twelve episodes, has broadened opportunities for the viewers of ETV+ to explore Estonian language and culture. The series is a wonderful example of how effective it can be to combine educational content with entertainment. With a wealth of examples, comparisons, experiences and suggestions, it has helped to stimulate interest in language learning, support the development of language skills, and break down the myths that hinder language learning. At the same time, meaningful and topical themes have allowed viewers to develop their language skills to a level that is needed for everyday life. The series delivers a powerful message, shared by individuals who have experienced the journey themselves, emphasising belief in a shared linguistic and cultural space in Estonia.
Building Blocks of Integration – ALEKSANDR DUSMAN
The Building Blocks of Integration category recognises raising awareness of Estonia’s cultural diversity and long-term targeted activities promoting integration.
Aleksandr Dusman is the long-standing head of Ida-Viru Round Table of National Minorities, established under the Ministry of Culture. Today, the round table brings together thirty-seven different societies from ten ethnic groups and almost all municipalities in Ida-Viru County. Aleksandr is also the head of the umbrella organisation of national minority cultural societies – Ida-Virumaa Integration Centre – which unites more than thirty national minority cultural societies. Aleksandr celebrated his eightieth birthday this year. He has been working in the field of integration for decades. The list of projects organised under his leadership includes several long-standing traditions, one example being the Loomepada festival. Aleksandr Dusman is a ‘peacekeeper’ for the multi-ethnic community of Ida-Viru County. He has a wonderful ability to keep the regional round table together and to inspire cooperation even in the most difficult of times (e.g. Covid19, during the war in Ukraine), with the ability to compromise and to find solutions for joint action between different ethnic groups. He is also the author and organiser of ten international conferences promoting tolerance and conflict prevention in Ida-Viru County. He has presented Estonian civil society and integration processes at various international conferences, made presentations, and kept the integration needs of the region on the agenda of the central government. Aleksandr is an excellent idea generator, highly conscientious, consistent in his actions, and certainly not one to give up. He is very open to new things, applies new knowledge in his work, and shares it with others.
Special Award for the Cultural Diversity Year – ANNE SUISLEP
The ‘Special Award for the Year of Cultural Diversity’ category recognises valuing and promoting the cultural diversity of Estonia.
Anne Suislep is the Education Manager of Ilon’s Wonderland, operating under the Foundation of Haapsalu and Läänemaa Museums, and the director of the drama class at the Youth Work Centre in Haapsalu. Anne is innovative in her ventures, finds new challenges, and is consistent in her work. She has the ability to motivate the people around her and to do great things for young people and the community in a small county. Anne has done exactly what the Year of Cultural Diversity was set up to do – bring together families from the Haapsalu community with families who have come from elsewhere, demonstrating to both parties the cultural diversity of the community. This gave people a chance to meet other cultures, further enriched by coverage in the local newspaper. The children and the child-friendly environment (Ilon’s Wonderland) made it easier to interact with each other. Listening to the guests revealed that even in a small town, different people and cultural spheres can meet and enrich the local life. As a second initiative, Anne wrote and directed the production Ingerimaale with the Haapsalu Youth Theatre, during which they explored their origins together with young Ingrians and established a connection with their roots.
On the occasion of Citizen’s Day, which is celebrated today, 26 November, the Integration Foundation invites everyone to test their knowledge of the Estonian state in an online quiz. The quiz is open for a week until 3 December and can be found on the website of the Integration Foundation.
The Integration Foundation, with the support of the Ministry of Culture, is organising the quiz for the 22nd time. Year after year, the quiz has provided an opportunity to test the knowledge that comes with living and being a citizen in Estonia.
This year, the online quiz, which comprises 35 questions, will be open from Citizen’s Day on 26 November until Tuesday, 3 December. A large part of the questions is about the events of 2024 in Estonia and concerning Estonia. These are accompanied by questions on the activities planned for the coming year in Estonia. The questions mainly concern culture, sport, education, and science, but also the functioning of the state.
More information about the Citizen’s Day online quiz in English here:
We offer students with varying language and cultural backgrounds the opportunity to participate in the shadow days programme of public sector institutions (ministries, state institutions, local governments) on 18–21 November 2024. The programme lasts one to three working days, i.e. 8–24 academic hours.
Students of various language and cultural backgrounds, who speak Estonian at the B2-level at minimum, have the opportunity to participate in up to three shadow days, during which they observe the daily tasks of (a) public sector employee(s) (e.g. office, department head, specialist, adviser, minister). The shadowing takes place in state institutions or local governments, where students receive an overview of the work of a public sector institution.
It is very important for students to plan their career during their studies. At the same time, public sector institutions need employees who have recently graduated university with modern knowledge, attitudes, and values for their organisation. This is why it is very important for the staff of an organisation to be linguistically and culturally diverse. Knowledge of a second language is often an asset when applying for a job, since there are many positions in the public sector where, in addition to very good Estonian, the skill of speaking foreign languages is unavoidably necessary.
The shadowing programme consists of:
● An introductory theoretical lecture ‘The Public Sector and its Role in Society’ – 8 academic hours (ah)
● Job shadowing days in a public sector institution – 8–24 ah
● Follow-up mini-hackathon online ‘Summaries and proposals for institutions’ – 8 ah
● Individual work – 4–10 ah
● Internship volume: minimum 33 and maximum 44 ah
Along with the Integration Foundation, the training will be conducted by Reiting PR OÜ, which will also provide the corresponding academic certificate to students who have completed the shadowing programme.
The Integration Foundation, in cooperation with the Ministry of Culture, is looking for proposals on who among Estonian people and organisations should be awarded for their activities promoting integration. Candidates can be submitted in five categories until 2 October 2024.
Minister of Culture Heidy Purga says that the integration awards are a commendable tradition. ‘Estonia is home to all of us. It is rich due to the diversity of cultures that results from the differences and similarities between nations. Through integration, we create a more cohesive society where everyone can play a part in shaping our common future,’ said Purga.
This year, the Integration Foundation and the Ministry of Culture will be giving awards to people and organisations that are developing integration for the 25th time.
Director of the Integration Foundation, Dmitri Moskovtsev invites people to submit candidates from different areas of life. ‘With the integration awards, we recognise people and organisations that have helped to develop cooperation between different ethnic communities and thus improve integration,’ said Dmitri Moskovtsev.
Integration awards are given in five categories:
> Building Integration– raising awareness of the cultural diversity of Estonia and the targeted long-term activities to promote integration;
> Bridgebuilder of the Year – implementation of cooperation projects aimed at residents whose first language is not Estonian;
> Spark of the Year – outstanding activities of a person or organisation in the field of integration;
> Messenger of the Year – shaping attitudes supporting integration through the media;
> Special Award for the Cultural Diversity Year – raising awareness of as well as valuing and promoting the cultural diversity of Estonia in the framework of the Cultural Diversity Year.
Individuals or organisations can be nominated for activities carried out between 1 September 2023 and 31 December 2024. There is no time limit for the Building Integration Award. The competition is not open to self-nominations or nominations from candidates who have received an integration award in the last three years.
This year’s winners will be awarded by Minister of Culture Heidy Purga at a ceremony on 10 December 2024 in Tallinn. The best among all candidates will be selected by a panel of experts in the field. Each of the award winners will receive a €1,000 prize.
Candidates for the Integration Awards can be submitted until 2 October 2024. You can find the application and all the other information at this link.
Winners of the 2021–2023 Integration Awards
> Building Blocks of Integration: 2023 – Pavel Ivanov, 2022 – Jelena Skulskaja and Marju Lauristin, 2021 – Not awarded
> Bridgebuilder of the Year: 2023 – Maria Sakarias, 2022 – Helen Sildna, 2021 – MTÜ Eesti Instituut
> Spark of the Year: 2023 – Kirill Badikin, 2022 – Ukrainian School of the Tallinn Lilleküla Gymnasium, 2021 – Estonian women’s épée team, 2021 MTÜ Sofiit Klubi
> Messenger of the Year: 2023 – editorial staff of Raadio 4, 2022 – Public Relations Department of the Estonian National Museum, 2021 – Tiina Pärtel
Same information at social media
Please find the according post on Facebook at this link.
The team of the Cultural Diversity Year invites you to celebrate the Day of Nationalities in Estonia. Let us hoist the Estonian flag and dress in folk costumes or add national elements to our outfits. This way, we show that together, we are Estonia.
This holiday, celebrated on 24 September, is dedicated to the communities of Estonians and other nationalities living in Estonia. This year, as part of the Cultural Diversity Year, we all have the opportunity to celebrate the Day of Nationalities in a bigger way than before – by hoisting the blue, black, and white flag in our homes, offices, or elsewhere, dressing up in folk costumes or adding national elements to our outfits, and taking part in different events in each county. The programme of the Day of Nationalities includes both traditional events and brand new initiatives in each county, where you can experience the culture of both Estonian and other ethnic communities free of charge.
The comprehensive programme from 14 September until 30 September for celebrating the Day of Nationalities was prepared in cooperation with the Estonian Union of National Minorities, the Estonian Folk Culture Centre, The Association of Estonian Cultural Societies, Tallinn Culture & Sports Department, Ida-Virumaa Integration Center and the cultural associations of various nationalities.
The Cultural Diversity Year is a theme year that takes place under the auspices of the Ministry of Culture and the Integration Foundation. Its goal is to celebrate the cultural diversity of the communities of Estonians and other peoples living here.
The Estonian Union of National Minorities continues the work of the I Forum on Nationalities, which took place on 24 September, 1988 and supported the restoration of Estonia's independence. At the proposal of the association, Paul-Eerik Rummo, the Minister of Population at the time, declared September 24 as the Day of Nationalities.
Rufat Kerimli is the author of a book on marketing and an experienced business coach operating in nine countries. He has revealed how the traditions of Azerbaijan and his business experience help him build connections between Estonia and Azerbaijan and shared his personal impressions of life in our country.
My name is Rufat Kerimli, and I represent the Azerbaijani community in Estonia. I work in the sphere of sales training and have written a book on this topic. I am 35, I was born in Estonia, and I am trying to combine the culture of my historical motherland with life in our wonderful country. I organise sports events and develop sports clubs to consolidate the friendship between Estonia and Azerbaijan.
Please describe how you see our Estonia.
To me, Estonia is a country of opportunities and tranquillity. Traditions and modernity, pragmatism and tolerance can coexist here. The country is not only developing and progressing but also preserving its soulfulness and cultural diversity.
What do you like in Estonia?
I like the tranquillity and opportunities here. Estonia is a place where you can grow and become successful in many different spheres. I provide sales training, and it is important to me. I also like the cultural diversity and tolerance that can be felt everywhere.
What surprises you in Estonia?
To me, the amazing calmness of people is surprising. Even during significant events, Estonians manage to remain reserved and calm. This is a very useful quality, and sometimes it seems to me that this is what Azerbaijanis lack.
What do you find unexpected or unusual in Estonia?
The absence of a strong emotional response to many events seems to me very unusual. In Azerbaijan, people express their feelings more openly, whereas here, people are more reserved. You have to get used to it.
What aspects of your culture could be implemented in Estonia?
I think it is hospitality that is lacking in Estonia, whereas hospitality is an integral part of the Azerbaijani culture. We are open-armed and hospitable and always happy to treat our guests right. Seems to me that it could make life here warmer and friendlier.
What do you miss the most? / What is lacking in Estonia?
Good weather is what I miss the most in Estonia. Although I was born in Estonia, I have still not gotten used to the cold and wet autumn. I also miss the quality of fruits and vegetables, as in Azerbaijan they are a bit different.
How, in your opinion, can your presence be favourable for Estonia?
I am trying to introduce Azerbaijani hospitality and culture to Estonia. My activities in sales as well as the children’s sports club and the events I organise help to make our people closer. Annual trips to Azerbaijan with kids are my contribution to the consolidation of friendship between our nations.
What Estonian habits have you adopted for yourself?
The thing I probably adopted the most was cold calculation and calmness. These qualities help me in both work and life. Estonians know how to control emotions, and I do my best to learn it too.
What is your favourite Estonian food?
My favourite Estonian food is kama. I eat kama quite often and value it for its taste and simplicity. I also like kama chocolates very much.
Do you have your favourite Estonian musical composition?
Yes, I like the song ‘Kuula’ by Ott Lepland a lot. It was performed at Eurovision 2012 and, in my opinion, it perfectly captures the soulfulness similar to Azerbaijani mugham.
How would you describe Estonians?
Estonians are pragmatic, calm, and tolerant people. They accept others and consider everything with understanding, which makes their culture unique and attractive.
The Integration Foundation, in cooperation with the Ministry of Culture and the Institute of Baltic Studies, is conducting a survey between August and December 2024 to determine the main obstacles for residents of Estonia with unspecified citizenship in applying for Estonian citizenship. The results of the survey will help us develop measures for overcoming different obstacles in acquiring citizenship.
The survey will focus on the analysis of the motivational factors and obstacles of residents with an unspecified citizenship. The results will help to shape an evidence-based integration policy and create or improve solutions that support the application of Estonian citizenship among people with unspecified citizenship.
The survey includes a questionnaire and focus group interviews. In order to carry out the survey, the contact details of randomised members of the target group are requested from the Estonian Population Register. Participation in the survey is completely voluntary, people can refuse to take part at any moment, and information is processed in accordance with all guidelines and principles of data protection and ethical research. Data is not processed in a way that does not coincide with the purpose of the survey and all contact details are deleted in December 2024 at latest.
In case of any questions, please contact: Research Manager Kristjan Kaldur (Institute of Baltic Studies), kristjan@ibs.ee, or Jekaterina Gvozdeva (Integration Foundation), jekaterina.gvozdeva@integratsioon.ee.
The survey is conducted with the support of the project ‘Activities supporting Estonian language learning and civic education’(2021-2027.4.07.23-0006) financed by the cohesion and internal security policy funds of the European Union within a programme period of 2021–2027.
September 24 is Day of Nationalities in Estonia. The Cultural Diversity Year working group is looking forward to celebrating it this year from September 14 through 30 with various events across Estonia.
Day of Nationalities is dedicated to the national communities living in Estonia. It was created in 2005 by the Estonian Union of Nationalities with the aim of bringing together Estonian communities and the communities of other nationalities living in Estonia. Since then, Day of Nationalities has been celebrated with various events all over Estonia.
The ongoing Cultural Diversity Year provides an opportunity to celebrate Day of Nationalities on a larger scale than ever before – in every county and with the participation of even more communities. The theme-year working group has compiled all the information about the events together in one programme.
From September 14 through 30, we invite everyone to participate in concerts, exhibitions, lectures, workshops and other events related to different national cultures. The programme can be found on the Cultural Diversity Year websitewww.kultuuririkkus.ee from September 7.
On Day of Nationalities in Estonia (Tuesday, September 24), the working group of the Cultural Diversity Year calls on people to hang the Estonian flag on their homes, wear folk costumes or add national elements to their clothing.
The programme for celebrating this year's Day of Nationalities is being prepared in cooperation with the Estonian Union of National Minorities, the Estonian Folk Culture Centre, The Association of Estonian Cultural Societies, Tallinn Culture & Sports Department and the cultural associations of various nationalities.
The Cultural Diversity Year is a theme year that takes place under the auspices of the Ministry of Culture and the Integration Foundation with the aim of celebrating the diversity of the cultures of Estonian communities and the peoples living in Estonia. More info: www.kultuuririkkus.ee.
