Overview of Estonia

Profile

The Republic of Estonia features flat terrain along the eastern Baltic Sea coast, characterized by over 2,000 islands and rich forests. After regaining independence from the Soviet Union in 1991, it joined the EU, NATO, and OECD, building an innovative digital state known as ''e-Estonia'' through e-government and e-residency programs. With high press freedom and educational standards, it maintains deep cultural and economic exchanges with Finland and Sweden.

Official name: Republic of Estonia
Common name: Estonia
Numeric code: 233
Alpha-3 code: EST
Alpha-2 code: EE
Population: Approximately 1.36 million (2023 estimate) (2023)
Population density: Approximately 30 per km²
Primary languages: Estonian
Major religions: Non-religious, Estonian Orthodox Church, Lutheran
National anthem: Mu isamaa, mu õnn ja rõõm (My Fatherland, My Happiness and Joy)
Calling code: +372
Internet TLD: .ee

History

Independence in 1918, Soviet annexation in 1940, independence restored in 1991.

After flourishing as a Hanseatic League city in the Middle Ages, it came under the rule of Denmark, the Teutonic Knights, Sweden, and the Russian Empire. It gained independence recognition from Soviet Russia through the Treaty of Tartu in 1918, but was re-annexed by the Soviet Union during World War II. Independence was restored in 1991 through the ''Singing Revolution.'' It rapidly strengthened ties with the West, joining the EU and NATO in 2004, and adopting the euro in 2011.

Geography & climate

Flat terrain of low hills and wetlands from glacial landforms, with over 2,000 islands. Half the land is covered by forests, dotted with lakes and rivers.

Cool temperate continental climate (humid with Baltic Sea influence)

Area: Europe / 45228 km²
Capital: Tallinn
Largest city: Tallinn
Coastal status: Yes
Major lakes: Lake Peipus, Lake Võrtsjärv
Bordering countries: Russia, Latvia

Natural resources

Oil shale, Limestone, Peat, Forest resources, Freshwater, Amber, Wind power, Biomass, Offshore wind potential, Berries and mushrooms

Politics

Government: Constitutional republic (parliamentary system)

Economy

Currency: Euro (EUR)

GDP (nominal): 43 billion USD (2023)

GDP (PPP): 66.2 billion USD (2023)

Language & timezone

Primary languages: Estonian

Time zone: Eastern European Time (EET), Eastern European Summer Time (EEST)

Culture & customs

Ethnic groups

Estonian, Russian, Ukrainian, Belarusian, Finnish, Seto

Life expectancy

78.2 years (2023)

Literacy rate

99.8%

National sports

Football, Basketball, Cross-country skiing, Athletics, Beach volleyball, Ice hockey