Foreign Ministry recognises Estonian diaspora citizen diplomats

26 November or Citizen’s Day, the Foreign Ministry recognises citizen diplomats and NGOs who have made long and notable efforts to preserve Estonian language, culture and spirit, or promoted Estonia’s business environment, digital society and business culture on a voluntary basis, thus contributing to raising Estonia’s profile in their country of residence. This year, the Foreign Ministry is presenting 34 letters of appreciation.

Foreign Minister Margus Tsahkna underlined the importance of celebrating Citizen’s Day for Estonia. “Citizen’s Day reminds us that Estonia’s strength lies in our people – knowledgeable, caring and active citizens who pass on our values both at home and abroad. Today we are recognising those who have enriched our society with their actions and dedication, and served as distinguished representatives of Estonia internationally. Their example inspires us all to preserve and develop a free and open Estonia,” the Foreign Minister said. 

Marin Mõttus, Ambassador at Large for the Diaspora, added, “Citizen diplomacy begins with small conversations and great dreams – every time we, Estonians, speak about our culture internationally and share our story, a bridge between Estonia and the world is created. These bridges are not made of stone; instead, they are made of trust, creativity and human warmth.”

The Foreign Ministry would like to thank and recognise the following individuals and non-governmental organisations:

Tiina Wiker, Norway 
Karin Margit Samel, Norway
Martin Markkinat, Finland
Mart Tarmak, Estonia 
William Arthur Vesilind, USA
Jüri Lepisk, Sweden
Kadri Thalström, Sweden
Jaan Jakobson, Sweden
Heinar Valk, Sweden
Lia Hess, Canada
Kristel Pappel, Estonia
Harry Liivrand, Estonia
The European Choir of Estonians 
Hannes Heinpalu, United Arab Emirates
Oliver Lant, United Arab Emirates
Dr Yves B. Partschefeld, Switzerland
Mihkel Mäekalle, United Kingdom
Heidi Solba and NGO Let’s Do It World
Nora Sööt, Estonia 
ESTO 2025 Committee and members of the organising teams
Irina Miller, Israel
Vassilis C. Karamitsanis, Greece
Brussels branch of Naiskodukaitse (Women’s Voluntary Defence Organisation)  
Wollondilly Heritage Centre and Museum, Australia
Martin Kurvits, Australia
Hilja Toom, Australia
Eduard Voltshkov, Ireland
Tiina Muru, Ireland
Silvi O’Brien Sindonen, Ireland
Andres Eerits, Luxembourg
Mairis Minka, Luxembourg 
Jeffers Engelhardt, USA         
Stefano Alberico, Italy
Eesti Rada newspaper, Germany

Citizen’s Day is celebrated on 26 November because on this day in 1918, the Estonian Provincial Assembly issued its first regulation on Estonian citizenship. The aim of Citizen’s Day is to raise awareness about the status of a citizen, boost civic pride, and highlight the sense of citizenship.