Civil protection development is gaining clear legal foundations in Estonia

On May 25, the Estonian Rescue Services Agency celebrated its anniversary. Thirty-three years ago, the fire department, the rescue services responsible for civil protection, and the lifesaving service were merged. Director General of the Estonian Rescue Services Agency, Margo Klaos, says that the agency has returned to its roots but requires a clear mandate, defined responsibility and adequate resources to carry out its tasks successfully.

“This week, the government took an important step in Estonia’s civil protection field by forwarding the draft Emergency Act to the Riigikogu for consideration and approval. With this, the Estonian Rescue Services Agency will take on numerous new responsibilities and a much greater role. A law is never just a piece of paper – it is a practical tool that ensures different institutions cooperate, understand their role, and are aware of their responsibilities. We have already, with great honour, taken on a leading role in the civil protection sector and have been driving vital developments based on the practices of other countries. If the Riigikogu adopts the Emergency Act, these responsibilities will be formally assigned to the Rescue Board. We have been waiting for this and are ready to accept the responsibility,” said Klaos.

According to Margo Klaos, a test of the emergency alert system carried out during last week’s Defence Forces exercise “Siil” clearly highlighted areas that require development – areas the Rescue Board must begin addressing together with its trusted partners. “Other aspects of civil protection, such as sheltering, mass evacuation, and the development of crisis preparedness skills among local authorities and the public, also need a clearly designated coordinator and authority. At the same time, we remain fully responsible for rescue and bomb disposal operations, prevention work and safety oversight. There must be no compromises in any of these areas.”

“We will do our best to ensure that Estonia is prepared even for the most serious crises. Importantly, the development of civil protection must not come at the expense of people’s lives, nor weaken our daily readiness or safety culture,” Klaos emphasised. “Our rescue personnel are skilled and resilient, but to manage additional tasks, we need more people, and their work should be properly valued, including through fair pay. Sustaining existing civil protection capabilities and developing new solutions also requires clear and reliable funding.”

“A heartfelt thank you to all rescue officers and volunteers for your hard work and dedication! We also thank all our partners and communities who trust and support us. Together we are building a safer Estonia,” Klaos concluded.