In the case of some positions – for example, member of the Riigikogu, civil servant – there is a requirement that only a citizen of the Republic of Estonia can work in these positions. This requirement is not considered discrimination on grounds of nationality, because the criterion on the basis of which the distinction is made is citizenship.
The requirements for proficiency in Estonian by occupation established by the Language Act and its implementing acts are also in line with the principle of equal treatment.
Not every difference in treatment between a person of a national minority and a person of another nationality is discrimination. Discrimination on the grounds of nationality only occurs when less favourable or different treatment is based on a person’s nationality.
If you feel that you’ve been treated unequally, please contact the Equality Commissioner by e-mail at avaldus@volinik.ee or telephone +372 626 9059. The anonymity of the person is guaranteed when contacting the Commissioner.
