Decoding Estoni@n Presidency of the Council
1
TABLE OF CONTENTS
INTERVIEW OF ESTONIAN MEP URMAS PAET (ALDE), MEMBER OF THE COMMITTEE ON BUDGETS
4-7
8
PRIORITIES OF THE ESTONIAN PRESIDENCY KEY ESTONIAN PRIORITIES VERSUS EU’S PRIORITIES FILES
9
POLITICAL CALENDAR FOR THE NEXT SIX MONTHS WHAT ABOUT ESTONIA
10
11
INTERVIEW OF URMAS PAET
Estonia will deal with several energy and the development of Defence cooperation and climate topics: review of the EU ETS, review the fight against terrorism? Do you consider of the Energy Efficiency Directive, renewable NATO membership as compatible with the energy, and electricity markets… what are the development of an EU Defence Union?
MEMBER OF THE COMMITTEE ON BUDGETS, ALDE
main priorities of the country with regards to
As the rapporteur for the European Defence
these issues?
Union reported at the European Parliament, I
Europe needs to take several steps towards would like to stress that cooperation with NATO cleaner energy sources which must be both is key when speaking of the European Defence
- reliable and affordable.
- Union.
Priorities of the Estonian Presidency of the Council
During the Presidency, Estonia will go on with There are several issues where the EU could the EU commitment to the Paris Agreement improve its internal security cooperation as well and with the work on the main strands of the as its cooperation with NATO and could make it EU’s energy and climate policy. Europe needs more practical with fast and clear decisions. to step up its game and should be ready to
The initial action plan for the EU common take the leadership in fighting climate change. defence policy, or defence union, must also
Especially now as the US is withdrawing from the include NATO projects that concern combating
Agreement.
Urmas PAET joined the European Parliament in 2014. A former journalist, he served as Minister of Foreign Affairs from 2005 to 2014 and Minister of Culture from 2003 to 2005.
hybrid threats, promoting operational
There is no doubt digital is going to be a top priority for Estonia, especially with regards to unlocking data potential. What would you say to stakeholders/Member States opposed to a legislative initiative on the free flow of data?
Another topic I cannot stress enough is the cooperation (including at our coasts), tackling necessity to build a strong Energy Union migration, reinforcing cyber security and and to achieve energy security which can be defence capabilities, strengthening the made through regional cooperation and the technological and industrial base in the field
- diversification of sources, suppliers and routes.
- of defence, putting in place military exercises
as well as strengthening security and defence capabilities of EU neighbours in the East and South.
Yes indeed, Estonia has high expectations for Europe, especially in the digital field. One of the priorities of the Estonian Presidency is the free movement of data. This is something that concerns all European policies as well as the fundamental freedoms. We need to find ways to ensure that data is used in a secure way for both our individual and collective benefit. It is crucial to remove location-based restrictions on the movement of data, to reach a common understanding in issues related to data ownership and ensure a reliable exchange and preservation of data.
Estonia is looking to promote labour mobility and free movement of person, in particular through the Services Package. How is the country looking to convince recalcitrant Moreover, the EU can financially support, countries and stakeholders stating that this for example, the placement of international liberalisation will increase unfair competition NATO battalions in EU Member States at its between Member States through social and Eastern border by backing the construction
Urmas PAET
economic dumping?
of the necessary infrastructure such as roads, barracks and other facilities. At the moment, the majority of this burden is on the shoulders of a few, specific Member States who (due to their geopolitical location) need increased presence of their allies. At the same time, this increased presence in specific countries serves as a protection for all EU and NATO countries and thus the solidarity-based distribution of additional costs is justified.
Estonia sees labour mobility within the EU as an opportunity rather than a threat. When people moves across borders, equal opportunities also means fair mobility, i.e. the way they use their right to study, work or stay abroad without being discriminated.
We need to look ahead, think innovatively and seize the opportunities because freeing data will contribute to make our daily lives easier and to boost the economy.
Last but not least, Estonia puts safety and security as a priority, with a specific focus on
5
The European Commission is planning several We support initiatives that make it easier for initiatives related to VAT and the fight against companies to operate in different member tax evasion, do you think the EU truly has an states. Doing things digitally will help
According to you, what is the greatest achievement of Estonia in its history?
The people. During difficult times, we stand together and always strive forward.
added value in taxation issues?
companies to carry out their operations more easily and faster.
VAT is a consumption tax that is an integral
What would you recommend us to eat in Estonia?
part of everyday transactions, including cross The European Commission will pursue border transactions, and in general terms it ongoing trade agreements talks and launch is functioning similarly in all the 28 Member negotiations with Australia and New Zealand. States. The new initiatives are aimed at better In your opinion, what is the importance of trade functioning of the (EU) internal market and are agreements for the EU?
Estonia has a great food culture. If you go out to eat, you will discover traces of Scandinavian and German cuisine. taking into account the changes in economy
Trade can be a powerful engine for growth and
(digitalisation and globalisation) over the past can contribute to sustainable and inclusive two decades. The initiatives respond to the development. EU needs to continue its work ideas that the Commission has collected from on free trade agreements with regions and
EU businesses, individuals and Member States countries in different parts of the world.
While in Estonia, don’t miss out on homemade dark bread with a nice layer of salty butter, chanterelle sauce with fresh potatoes, mulgipuder (potato and barley porridge) and other typical Estonian dishes. Give also a try to kama which is another example of traditional Estonian food. It is a mixture of roasted barley, rye, oat andpeaflourthat youmixwithsour milk.
France has just brought to power a young pro-European politician. What is your feeling about this election? Do you think that proEuropean speeches are key to tackle the rise of extremism and populism?
during the consultation process on the future of EU VAT. So, yes, in the area of VAT the EU does have added value.
In March this year the UK triggered Article 50 to launch the Brexit negotiations. How do you think this will impact the European integration?
France has had and will always have an important role in shaping the future of the EU. That is also one of the reasons why Russia had a fixed favourite during the French presidential elections.
Certainly, the fight against tax evasion and avoidance is the main concern for the EU also in the company taxation. Here more value could still be added by seeking the solutions for the new types of economy such as sharing economy and the digital economy. And while some improvements could be necessary in terms of cross-border tax rules, we should also keep in mind the competitiveness of the EU at the global arena.
You will also find many delicious food from our gardens and forests, such as blackcurrants, blueberries, beetroot etc.
No doubt the light will be shed on the Brexit talks during Estonia’s EU presidency period. For the remaining 27 members states there needs to be unity.
Of which Estonian tradition are you the proudest of?
Macron had a clear victory and thus we should not over-mystify populist and extremist political forces and underestimate the political experience of the EU citizens, in this case of the French society.
It is no exaggeration that the strength of the EU, as well as the cooperation between Europe and the US, are vital for Estonia. All our foreign policy measures should be focused on that goal. Therefore, the main aim during the Estonian Presidency of the Council should be to make the EU stronger with every decision and every negotiation.
We have many great traditions but I’m very proud of the Estonian Song Festival. It is held every five years in the Tallinn Song Festival Grounds. It is said that Estonians sang themselves free, thus singing together is an important part of our history.
Could you briefly present your country?
The European Commission is also considering
adopting several initiatives in company law to modernize EU legislation. Do you consider that there is still too much administrative burden on businesses?
Estonia is located in the north-eastern part of Europe. We have a population of 1,3 million people. Our capital Tallinn has a beautiful and well preserved medieval old town which is also a UNESCO World Heritage Site.
If I plan to go to Estonia for one week-end, what should I absolutely see/discover?
Spend time in the nature: take a walk in the forest, swim in the sea or the lake, and wander in the bog. Our islands are also nice to visit. And of course, go to the sauna.
Half of our country is covered by forest which we love and cherish as Estonians like to spend their time in the nature, may it be in the forest, in the bog or at the seaside.
Could you recommend us an Estonian song/ singer?
We also love singing and of course every digital
- thingy.
- Music by Estonian composer Arvo Pärt.
7
- PRIORITIES OF THE
- KEY ESTONIAN PRIORITIES
- ESTONIAN PRESIDENCY
- VERSUS EU’S PRIORITY FILES
From July to December 2017, Estonia will chair for the first time the Presidency of the Council. Due to the UK decision to leave the EU, the Baltic country is taking its role 6 months earlier than expected. Some fears there is a danger Brexit talks shall overcloud the Estonian Presidency’s priorities as stated by Clyde KULL, Ambassador at the Permanent Representation of Estonia to the EU. Anyway, there is no doubt this term will be heavily marked by the Brexit negotiations set to start around the 19th June.
Boosting the economy through digital innovation as well as addressing the migration crisis are top common priorities of the three institutions and reflected in the European Budget for 2017 (Jobs, Growth &Investment - € 74.9 bn and Security, Migration & Citizenship - € 6 bn).
While Estonia intends to address equally those issues during its Presidency, some preference can be given to the initiatives in the framework of a digital package. Moreover, some of the specific objectives in the field of security can be linked to the geographical position of the country: enhancing cooperation with NATO or strengthening relations with Eastern partnership countries.
Besides, otherfactorssuchasthenewMacron’sgovernmentinFranceandupcomingelections in Germany as well as the emergence of terrorist attacks all over Europe will have to be taken into account by Estonia to manage its Presidency.
But concretely, let’s have a look at what main areas will Estonia work on during its term:
Estonia will try to reinforce the four European freedoms (free movement of goods, persons, services and capital) to make the European economy more dynamic. A specific mention is dedicated to the trade agreements between the EU and other countries all over the world. A more stable electricity market and the fight against tax
Joint priorities for 2017
Growth, investments
ESTONIAN Priorities
Support for knowledge-based growth and competitiveness
01
Preservation of the principle of free movement
ECONOMY
Protection of EU four freedoms (goods, persons, services and capital)
evasion are issues on which the Estonian Presidency will also work.
Making progress on the banking union and on the capital markets union
Following the priorities of the European Commission and considering the context in which terrorism is affecting EU countries, the Estonian Presidency shall focus on strengthening the internal security as well as the protection of the EU’s external borders. A stronger partnership between Eastern countries and a deeper cooperation with NATO are
Ensuring a stability of banking sector Preventing tax evasion
Fight against tax fraud
02
security
Improving the security in Europe Tackling the migration crisis
also part of the objectives.
Better protecting EU citizens’ security
Reforming the EU’s migration policy
In line with the European Commission’s Digital Single Market strategy, Estonia will carry on the implementation of the digital agenda focusing on its cross-border dimension in areas such as: e-commerce, e-services, digital public services, free flow of data and geo-blocking. As a global leader in digital governance, it can be expected that the country will put digital topics in the centre of its programme. The cooperation with the Estonian Vice-President of the European
Fully exploit the potential of digital market for the benefits citizens and business
Delivering on a digital single market
03
Commission for Digital Single Market, Andrus ANSIP, should be also productive in this regard.
DIGITAL
Improving the social dimension of the EU
Promote a social inclusion of all citizens
EUROPE
To make Europe more inclusive and sustainable, the Presidency will strive to take measures aiming at ensuring equal access to the labour market, high quality education or services. Securing a more sustainable environment is also part of the agenda of the Estonian Presidency.
04
inclusion
Social
9
POLITICAL CALENDAR FOR THE NEXT SIX MONTHS
and your summer cultural agenda if you are either in Brussels or travelling to Estonia – which you should by the way
- july
- august
Set against the coastal backdrop of Pärnu Bay, the main-stage sits right at the water’s edge giving the festival a real beach-party feel, whilst additional stages offer a more intimate club feel (Pärnu, Estonia, August 3rd to 5th)
- 07
- 08
- Into the Valley Festival
- Weekend Festival Baltic
The best cutting-edge electronic music in the spectacularly and unique location of Rummu limestone quarry and its underwater prison (Rummu, Estonia, June 29th to July 1st)
Õllesummer Festival
One of the largest event for music lovers in
Brussels Summer Festival (BSF)
- the Baltics (Tallinn, Estonia, July 5th to 8th)
- The festival combining jazz, pop, rock,
electro, world music with cultural events and Belgian food in the heart of Brussels (Brussels, Belgium, August 6th to 15th)
ESTONIA, THE 2.0 NATION
september
09
Classissimo
A summer festival for amateurs of classical music (seasoned fans and neophytes) who want to discover young musicians as well as established artists (Brussels, Belgium, August 4th to 10th).
With just over 1.3 million inhabitants, Estonia is the least populated (and the northern) of the Baltic countries. Covering almost 50% of the territory, Estonian forests play a major role in the country’s economy. Yet Estonia is far better known for being a very, very, very digital and connected nation.
Germany: Federal election
Germany will go to the polls on September
- 24th in
- a
- Federal election that will see
Angela MERKEL battle for her fourth term as Chancellor with former European Parliament President Martin SCHULZ (SPD) and amid the rise of the far-right (AfD). MERKEL’s Christian Democrats (CDU) scored a significant victory in a regional election on May 7th, giving the party a boost ahead of the national vote.
It is no secret that Skype was invented there. However, few people know that Estonians benefited from the very first public Wi-Fi hotspot back in 2001. Sixteen years later, there are now over 1,300 of these across the country.
october
10
Czech Republic: Legislative election
The members of the Chamber of Deputies will be elected on October 20th and 21st. The leader of the resultant government will become the Prime Minister.
State of the Union 2017
European Commission President JeanClaude JUNCKER will address the European Parliament in his annual State of the European Union speech on September 13th.
GENERAL CHARACTERISTICS
High-level Digital Summit
The EU heads of state or government would meet in Tallinn to discuss Europe’s digital future.
E-stonia: As its digital reputation would suggest, all the administrative procedures carried out by the 1.3 million Estonians are dematerialized. All? Well, no. Some indomitable procedures of the Estonians’ everyday life still hold out against the E-invaders, such as weddings, divorces and real estate sales.
november
Austria will hold a snap election on October 15th as the country’s coalition government has collapsed. The vote raises the prospect of farright Freedom Party (FPO) entering national government.
11
Austria: Legislative election
Shortly after the Independence in 1991, the Estonian administration promoted the use of the Internet and started to connect every school to the World Wide Web. In February 2000, Estonia even decreed online access as a Constitutional right.
december
12
Slovenia: Presidential election
The Slovenian President, whose powers are mainly honorary, shall be elected in December based on a two-round majority voting system. This election will constitute a prequel to the parliamentary elections, expected to take place in 2018.
11
If you ever visit Estonia, the rich historical legacy surely will hit you in the face. The country’s typical postcard setting (and in particular Tallinn’s) consists in roofs with red tiles, many churches’ arrows and turrets of centuries-old castles. Since the Middle Age, Estonia has been a fully-fledged component of the European cultural space through the Hanseatic League, which has helped to make the country prosperous.
tourist tips : food, drinks & places
There are numerous restaurants in Tallinn. But it’s not so simple to find good restaurants that offer traditional local cuisine...
Oh, and of course, Tallinn is listed in the UNESCO world heritage.
BALTHASAR
Raekoja plats 11
ANNELIVIIK
Pikk 30
OLDE HANSA
Vana Turg 1
Traditional Estonian Famous for its hot A typical medieval cooking with garlic chocolate, so dense restaurant which as a key ingredient. that the spoon sends you back to And we mean THE stands straight in the the 15th century! key ingredient. cup!
HISTORY
TALLINN
Indeed, there is a garlicsorbet!
Estonia is a Baltic country that has suffered a lot from foreign occupation. Along with the Danish yoke and the rule of the Teutonic Order State, the Estonian people were under the domination of Sweden, the Russian empire as well as the Soviet Union. However, despite facing many challenges, the country has thrived and is now an independent and democratic country.
PUSSIROHUKELDER
Lossi 28
Located in an old powder keg, this restaurant offers soups and plates of fried herringwithgarlicsauce, alongwithavery large choice of beers. Nice atmosphere, especially for young people wanting to faceinbeerpongcompetitions.
TARTU meteorites
The Estonian Age of Awakening is a period starting in the middle of the 19th century when Estonians slowly, but surely, began to feel a strong sense of nationhood wanted to take control of their own destiny. This period ends with the Declaration of the Republic of Estonia in 1918.
Estonia is not only the home of Wi-Fi but also of meteorite craters. Kaali is a field of 9 meteorite impacts located on the Saaremaa Island, dating from 7 000 BC. In ancient times, people thought the main, 22-meter deep crater was Apollo’s grave. Go have a look, it is quiteeasytofind!
The Hiiumaa Island, the second largest of Estonia, is famous for its various lighthouses including Kõpu which is one of the oldest in the world! Attracting many tourists, this 36-meter
Estonia has two Independence Days both from the Soviet Union. The first one commemorates the end of the Soviet domination on the 24th of February 1918 and the second one celebrates the ‘Restoration of the Day of Independence’ on the 20th of August 1991.
LIGHT HOUSE
high lighthouse operates since its construction, completedin1531.
13
FUN FACTS
SPORTS
In Estonia, singing is not only an art but also a way of life, as well as a form of political expression. During the Estonian Age of Awakening, the multiplication of popular choirs contributed to the development of a common identity.
The Estonians surely can spin your head right round. That is why they invented Kiiking. Considered as a “sport”, it consists of making a full 360 degrees rotation with a giant swing.
DO YOU HEAR
THE PEOPLE SING?
During the events, commonly known as the Singing Revolution, which led to the restoration of Estonia’s independence from the Soviet Union in 1991, mass demonstrations were singing patriotic songs and anthems previously forbidden under the Soviet yoke.
