Where in the world is Estonia located? Country Estonia

America

Estonia - country in northern Europe located on east coast Baltic Sea.

A detailed map of Estonia shows that the country borders on Russia in the east (for 294 km), in the south with Latvia (for 339 km), and in the north it has a maritime border with Finland.

Estonia is a major financial center and exporter of slates, phosphorites, sawn and building materials, and fish.

Estonia on the world map: geography, nature and climate

Estonia on the world map is located in Northern Europe, in the Baltic States, and is washed by the waters of the Baltic Sea - the Gulf of Finland in the north and the Gulf of Riga in the west. The territory of Estonia stretched from north to south for 240 km, and from west to east for 350 km. In addition to the main continental part, the country includes 2355 Baltic islands, the largest of which are Saaremaa, Hiiumaa, Muhu and Vormsi. The total length of Estonian land and sea borders is 1633 km.

Minerals

Estonia is not rich in minerals, but one of the largest shale reserves in the world can be found here. The reserves of peat, phosphorites, limestone and clay have also been explored.

Relief

The territory of Estonia is located on the East European Plain. The surface of the earth is predominantly flat, which alternates with lowlands, hills, depressions and valleys. Large landforms of Estonia:

The Haanja Upland in the southeast, where the highest point not only in Estonia, but also in the entire Baltic region is located - Mount Suur-Munamägi (318 meters);
West Saaremaa upland in the west;
Pandivere Upland in the north;
The Sakala and Otepää highlands in the south;
Harju and Viru Plateau in the north;
the Ugandi Plateau in the south;
North Estonian clint (ledge).

Hydrography

About 7,000 rivers and streams flow through the country, only 10 of which are longer than 100 km. Almost all rivers are fed by snow, rain, or lakes and swamps and flow into the Baltic Sea, Lake Peipus and Pskov, or Lake Vyrtsjärv. The longest river is the Vyhandu, with a length of 162 km.

There are 1,150 lakes in Estonia, covering 5% of the country's territory and predominantly of glacial origin. The largest lake is Peipus (area - 3555 km 2), on the map of Estonia in Russian it can be found on the border with Russia, in the eastern part of the country.

Flora and fauna

Approximately half of the territory of Estonia is occupied by forests (4th place in Europe in terms of forest cover), and its fifth part is bogs. Pine, birch, spruce, aspen and alder grow in the forests.

The country is home to 65 species of mammals, 331 species of birds, 65 species of fish, 15,000 species of insects and 3,500 species of invertebrates. The most common animals are moose, roe deer, hares, wild boars, bears, minks, hedgehogs; birds - capercaillie, hazel grouse, black grouse. In the waters of Estonia there are salmon, whitefish, bream, roach, perch, pike perch, pike and other fish.

About 1,500 plant species grow in Estonia, 83 of which are found only here: for example, the Saarema yellow bellflower and the Estonian tinker serpuha.

Protected areas occupy 18% of the country's area. The largest national park is Lahemaa, located on the coast of the Gulf of Finland in Northern Estonia and includes untouched swamps, rocky and pine forests, and picturesque coastlines.

Estonian climate

The climate of Estonia is temperate maritime and temperate continental, with small amplitudes of annual and daily temperatures, influenced by Atlantic cyclones and the warm current of the Gulf Stream. Therefore, the winter in Estonia is mild for its latitudes, and the summer is cool - the average temperature in January is from -2 to -6 °C, and in July from +17 to +18 °C. The average annual air temperature ranges from +5 to +7 °C, and the average annual rainfall is from 530 to 730 mm. Due to the proximity of the sea, the relative humidity of the air is approximately 80-85%. The country usually experiences overcast and cloudy weather.

Map of Estonia with cities. Administrative division of the country

The territory of Estonia is divided into 15 counties (maakond).

The largest cities in Estonia

Tallinn- the capital and largest city of Estonia, which is its scientific, economic, cultural and transport center. The city is located in the north of the country, on the southern coast of the Gulf of Finland. 450 thousand people live in Tallinn, the most numerous nationalities are Estonians (52%), Russians (38%), Ukrainians (4%). The old part of the city is included in the UNESCO World Heritage List.
Tartu- the second largest city in the country (93 thousand people) and the center of the county of the same name, located 185 km southeast of Tallinn. Tartu has a developed woodworking industry, metalworking, mechanical engineering, and one of the leading universities in Europe, the University of Tartu, is also located here. Estonians make up the majority of the city's population - 80%, Russians in Tartu 15%.
Jõhvi- a city in the north-eastern part of the country and the center of the most Russian-speaking county of Estonia - Ida-Virumaa. The basis of the city's economy is shale mining. The population of Jõhvi is 10 thousand people, of which 53% of the population is Russian and 33% is Estonian. On a map of Estonia with cities in Russian, Jõhvi can be found 160 km east of Tallinn.

Most residents of Western Europe, and even more so Asia and the United States, are unlikely to be able to find Estonia on the world map. But so much the worse for them, because Estonia is not just a small country in the Baltics. Estonia is an amazing Baltic nature, medieval fortresses, numerous museums, amber, the Baltic Sea, as well as balneological and beach resorts.

Geography of Estonia

Estonia is located in the Baltic States, in Northern Europe. In the south, Estonia borders on Latvia, in the east - on Russia. In the north and west, Estonia is washed by the waters of the Baltic Sea. The total area of this country is 45,227 sq. km., including the islands, and the total length of the border is 1,450 km.

55% of the territory of Estonia is occupied by forests. The highest point in the country is Mount Suur-Munamägi on the Haanja Upland, whose height is only 318 meters.

There are a lot of lakes in Estonia, the largest of them are Lake Peipus in the east and Võrtsjärv in the south of the country.

Capital

The capital of Estonia is Tallinn, which is now home to more than 420 thousand people. Archaeologists believe that the first human settlements on the territory of modern Tallinn appeared about 2 thousand years ago.

Official language

The official language in Estonia is Estonian, which belongs to the Finnish branch of the Uralic language family.

Religion

About 14% of the Estonian population belongs to the Estonian Evangelical Lutheran Church, and about 10% of Estonians are Orthodox Christians. The rest of Estonians do not believe in God.

State structure of Estonia

According to the 1992 constitution, Estonia is a parliamentary republic, headed by the President, who is elected by the country's Parliament.

The Estonian Parliament consists of 101 deputies who are elected for a 4-year term. Executive power belongs to the President, the Prime Minister and the Cabinet of Ministers.

Climate and weather

The climate in Estonia is temperate, transitional from maritime to continental. The average annual air temperature is +5.2C. In general, the Atlantic Ocean and the Baltic Sea have a decisive influence on the Estonian climate. The average amount of precipitation per year is 568 mm.

Average air temperature in Tallinn:

January - -5C
February - -6C
March - -3C
April - +3C
May - +8C
June - +13С
July - +16С
August - +15C
september - +11C
October - +6С
November - +1С
December - -3С

Sea in Estonia

In the north and west, Estonia is washed by the waters of the Baltic Sea (Gulf of Finland). The length of the Estonian coast of the Baltic Sea is 768.6 km. There are more than 1,500 islands in Estonia, the largest of which are Saaremaa, Hiiumaa and Muhumaa (Muhu).

The temperature of the Baltic Sea near the Estonian coast reaches +17C in summer. In the bays, the water warms up better in summer, and exceeds +20C.

Rivers and lakes

There are 200 rivers and about 1,500 lakes in Estonia. Rivers in northern Estonia form picturesque rapids and waterfalls. The highest Estonian waterfall is Valaste (30.5 m).

Several beautiful rivers flow through the territory of southern Estonia - Piusa, Ahja and Vyhandu. By the way, Võhandu is the longest river in Estonia (162 km).

There are a lot of lakes in Estonia, the largest of them are Lake Peipus in the east and Võrtsjärv in the ege of the country. In general, lakes occupy 6% of the territory of Estonia. On the shore of Lake Peipsi there is the longest Estonian sandy beach - 30 km.

History of Estonia

People appeared on the territory of modern Estonia about 11 thousand years ago. The first state formations in Estonia began to appear in the 1st century AD. In the 9th-11th centuries, Scandinavian Vikings (mainly Swedes) often attacked the territory of modern Estonia.

Before the adoption of Christianity, Estonians were pagans who believed in a higher being - Tharapita.

From 1228 to the 1560s, Estonia was part of the Holy Roman Empire (it was conquered by the Livonian Order).

In 1629 most of Estonia came under Swedish rule. The first university in Estonia was founded in 1632 in Dorpat (Tartu).

In 1721, according to the Treaty of Nystadt, Estonia was included in the Russian Empire. Only after the First World War in 1918 was the independence of Estonia declared.

According to the 1939 agreement between Germany and the USSR, Estonia is included in the zone of interests of Joseph Stalin. On August 6, 1940, Estonia was incorporated into the USSR as the Estonian SSR.

Estonia's independence was restored on August 20, 1991. Estonia has been a member of the European Union since 2004.

culture

Estonians, like other nations, are very proud of their culture. The government of the country is making efforts to preserve not only archaeological, historical and architectural monuments, but also intangible monuments. Thus, in Estonia there are currently 7 government programs for the preservation of intangible traditional culture (we are talking about songs, music, dances, etc.).

Back in 1869, the first Estonian folk music and dance festival was held in Tartu. Now the tradition of this festival continues. The Estonian Music and Dance Festival in Tartu is now included in the UNESCO Intangible Cultural Heritage List.

The most popular holidays among Estonians are New Year, Independence Day, Easter, Midsummer Day, Restoration of Independence Day and Christmas.

Estonian cuisine

Estonian cuisine is quite simple, there are no gourmet dishes in it. But now Estonian cuisine already includes the most popular dishes of international cuisine. However, in Estonia the most typical products are still black bread, pork, potatoes, fish and dairy products.

We advise tourists in Estonia to definitely try the following traditional Estonian dishes: beer soup, bean soup, soup with dumplings and meat, brawn, black pudding, Baltic herring in vinegar, pike in oil, stewed pike with horseradish, herring casserole, mulgi porridge » with sauerkraut, honey cake, cabbage pie, baked apples.

In Estonia, the traditional non-alcoholic drink is kali made with yeast, to which juniper berries are added.

As for alcoholic beverages in Estonia, this is, of course, beer and vodka. Estonians have been making vodka since about the 15th century, but it still cannot compete with beer in popularity.

Sights of Estonia

Estonians have always been sensitive to their history. Therefore, we advise tourists in Estonia to definitely see:

Cities and resorts

The largest Estonian cities are Tartu, Pärnu, Kohtla-Järve, Narva, and of course. Tallinn.

In Estonia, on the Baltic Sea, there are several good beach resorts. By the way, the beach season in Estonia usually starts in mid-May and lasts until mid-September. The most popular Estonian beach resorts are Pärnu, Narva-Jõesuu, Haapsalu, Toile and Kuressaare. There are also beaches on the shores of Lake Peipus.

But tourists come to Estonia not only to swim in the Baltic Sea and see local attractions. Estonia has some excellent balneological resorts. The most famous of them are Pärnu, Värska, Kuressaare, Pühajärve and Vimsi.

Souvenirs/Shopping

The official name is the Republic of Estonia (Eesti Vabariik). Located in the northeast of Europe. The area is 45.2 thousand km2, the population is 1.423 million people. (2001). The official language is Estonian. The capital is Tallinn (500 thousand people, 2001). Public holiday - Independence Day February 24 (1918). Monetary unit - crown (equal to 100 centimes).

Member of the UN (since 1993), Council of Europe (since 1993), EU (since 2004), NATO (since 2004), etc.

Sights of Estonia

Geography of Estonia

It is located between 22° and 28° east longitude and 60° and 58° north latitude, on the southern coast of the Gulf of Finland, washed by the Baltic Sea and the Gulf of Riga. The length of the land border is 637 km, in the south with Latvia (343 km), in the east with the Russian Federation (294 km). The nearest northern neighbor is Finland. The coastline is heavily indented - 3794 km. More than 1500 islands, the largest are Saaremaa, Hiiumaa, Muhu.

Estonia is located within the East European Plain, gradually rising from the coasts of Riga and Gulf of Finland in east and southeast directions. The average height is 50 m above sea level, the highest point - 318 m - Suur Munamägi hill in the south of the country.

Estonia has a dense river network. Rivers: Narva, Pirita, Kazari, Pärnu, etc. The longest river - Pärnu (144 km) flows into the Gulf of Riga. The most abundant rivers are Narva and Emajõgi.

There are more than 1150 lakes (mostly of glacial origin) and St. 250 ponds. The lakes cover approx. 4.8% of the territory. The largest of them, Peipsi (or Peipsi), is located in the east and forms a natural and historical border with the Russian Federation (out of a lake area of 3555 km2, 1616 km2 belong to the lake). The largest inland water body is Lake Võrtsjärv (266 km2).

More than 48% of the territory is covered with mixed coniferous-broad-leaved forests (pine, spruce, warty and downy birch, aspen, as well as oak, maple, ash, elm, linden). The low coastal strip is occupied by coastal meadows with specific flora that tolerate soil salinity.

There are approx. 1560 species of flowering, gymnosperms and ferns. A wide variety of mosses (507 species), lichens (786), fungi (about 2500), algae (more than 1700). There is approx. 60 species of mammals. These are: moose, roe deer, hares, wild boars, foxes, pine martens, badgers, squirrels, etc. More than 70 species of fish live in fresh water and coastal waters (cyprinids, salmon, burbot, trout, crucian carp, tench, carp, herring, sprat , cod, flounder, sea whitefish, eel, etc.).

Estonia has a rather variegated soil cover from sod-podzolic, carbonate to stony podzolic. In general, waterlogged soils occupy more than half of the country's area, and swamps - approx. 22%.

Minerals: shale tar (kukersite), combustible shale and phosphorites (explored reserves are estimated at 3.8 billion tons, predicted - about 6 billion tons), peat, amber, limestone, clay, phosphates, dolomite.

The climate is transitional from maritime to continental, the average July temperature is approx. +17°C, February from -4°C on Lake Saaremaa to -8°C in Narva.

Population of Estonia

According to the estimated data of national statistics, at the beginning of 2003 the population of Estonia was 1356 thousand people, it decreased by 20.7 thousand people. compared to the 2000 census data.

The population in Estonia is decreasing due to both negative natural growth and emigration. From 1995-2001, the death rate steadily increased (from 11.9 to 13.5‰), while the birth rate decreased (from 13.9 to 8.7‰), while the infant mortality rate also decreased (from 18.7 to 12 , 6 people per 1000 newborns). Average life expectancy is 69.7 years, men 63.7, women 76 years. In 2001, 17% of the population was under 15, 15% over 15, 68% St. 65 years old. Men make up 47% of the population, women 53%. 67.1% of the population lives in cities. The retirement age since 2002 is 65 for men, 60 for women.

Ethnic composition: Estonians - 65.1%, Russians - 28.1%, Ukrainians - 2.5%, Belarusians - 1.5%, Finns - 1%. 75.1% of the permanent population (almost all Estonians) have Estonian citizenship, 6.2% - Russian, do not have any citizenship of St. 12%.

Estonian belongs to the Baltic-Finnish branch of the Finno-Ugric family of languages.

Among believers, Lutherans predominate (80-85%), there are Orthodox (including Estonians), Baptists, Methodists, Seventh-day Adventists, Catholics, and Pentecostals. 8 churches, 8 parish unions and 66 private parishes are registered.

History of Estonia

The scattered Estonian tribes inhabiting the territory of modern Estonia were mainly engaged in agriculture, cattle breeding and fishing. German advance in eastbound in the 12th century influenced the fate of the Estonians, in the 13-16 centuries. their lands were conquered by the German crusaders and included in Livonia. The southern part of the country in 1224 was divided between the Livonian Order, Dorpat and Ezel bishops, the northern part belonged to Denmark in 1238-1346. The country was dominated by the Teutonic Knights, the landowning aristocracy and the local bishops of the Catholic Church, who were supported by city merchants. As a result of the war (1558-83), the Livonian Order collapsed: the northern part of Estonia was under the rule of the Swedes, the southern part - the Commonwealth. The island of Saaremaa remained with Denmark. From 1645 the entire territory of Estonia became part of Sweden. In the beginning. 18th century Russia's interests in the Baltic region clashed with those of Sweden. After the defeat of Sweden in the Northern War (1700-21), Estonia was annexed to Russia and divided into two provinces. The Estonian Governorate was formed on the territory of northern Estonia, and southern part(Pärnu, Viljandi and Tartu) entered the Livonian province.

Under the influence of the events of the February Revolution of 1917, Soviets of Workers' and Soldiers' Deputies were created in Tallinn and other cities. In April 1917 the Estonian lands became an autonomous province. The first elections to the Estonian Parliament were held on July 7-8, 1917. On February 24, 1918, the Provincial Zemsky Council declared the independence of Estonia. The units of the Red Army and Estonian riflemen who entered contributed to the proclamation on November 29, 1918 of the Estonian Soviet Republic (Estland Labor Commune), which lasted until June 5, 1919, and on May 19, 1919, the Constituent Assembly proclaimed the formation of an independent Estonian Republic. On February 2, 1920, a peace treaty was signed with the RSFSR. In 1934 a coup d'état was carried out, a dictatorship was established, parliament was dissolved, and political parties were banned.

On September 28, 1939, Estonia and the USSR signed an agreement on mutual assistance, which provided for the deployment of part of the Soviet troops on the territory of Estonia, and on June 17, 1940, in connection with the threat of fascist aggression, they were introduced. On June 14-15, elections to the State Duma were held, and on July 21, 1940, the Estonian Soviet Socialist Republic was proclaimed; in August 1940, it became part of the USSR. In 1941-44 E. was occupied by fascist German troops. In the autumn of 1944, after heavy fighting, Estonia was liberated by the Red Army.

In December 1988, the Estonian Popular Front was created, as well as a number of other political organizations (including the Independence Party), which put forward a demand for secession from the USSR. In November 1988, the Supreme Council of Estonia, led by the communist reformers, adopted the Declaration of the sovereignty of the Estonian SSR. On May 8, 1990, the Republic of Estonia was proclaimed, and on September 6, 1991, the independence of Estonia was recognized by the State Council of the USSR.

State structure and political system of Estonia

Estonia is a parliamentary republic. The 1992 Constitution is in force. Administrative division-15 counties (maakonds), 207 volosts, 47 cities. The largest cities (thousand people): Tallinn, Tartu (115), Narva (68.5), Kohtla-Järve (55), Pärnu (45).

State power in accordance with the Constitution is exercised by the Riigikogu, the President and the Government.

The highest legislative body is the Riigikogu (unicameral parliament), consisting of 101 deputies, elected by universal, direct, secret suffrage for 4 years on the basis of proportional representation (over 20 parties and political organizations are registered in Estonia). The Riigikogu elects the president, discusses legislative acts, approves or rejects the candidature of the prime minister appointed by the president, and forms the government of the country.

The elections for the next (10th) Riigikogu, held on March 2, 2003, demonstrated the previous trend towards the predominance of right-wing conservative, nationally oriented forces. In total, approx. 58% of the Estonian electorate, or 40% of the country's inhabitants. Almost 25% of the population, mostly Russian-speaking residents who do not have the status of citizens, were not allowed to participate in the elections. Of the 11 registered parties, only 6 made it to parliament. The Russian-speaking parties - the United People's Party of Estonia and the Russian Party of Estonia did not get the required minimum of votes. The centre-right Res Publica party won (28 seats), the second place was taken by the Social Democratic Center Party, led by Tallinn Mayor E. Savisaar (28), the Reform Party, led by S. Kallas, was third (19), the only party from “ tripartite alliance” (reformists, moderates and the Union of the Fatherland), which has wide support after the right-wing government, because it managed to move away from the unpopular decisions of this government and actively condemned its partners, then the People’s Union (13), the Union of the Fatherland “Isamaaliyt” (7) and the Party moderate (6 mandates).

The head of state is the president, who is elected by the Riigikogu for 5 years, but not more than two consecutive terms, approves laws, appoints a candidate for the post of prime minister, and performs representative functions. On September 21, 2001, Arnold Ruutel won the presidential election, replacing Lennart Mary.

The highest body of executive power, the Cabinet of Ministers, is formed by the Riigikogu. The composition of the new coalition government of the country was approved on April 7, 2003. The ruling coalition included representatives of the Res Publica party, the Reform Party and the People's Union. Juhan Parts, leader of the Res Publica party, has become the new prime minister of Estonia, replacing Siim Kallas, leader of the reformist party.

The primary tasks of the new government were: the continuation of an active campaign against corruption (refusal of personal and expensive cars of ministers and other officials), reducing the cost of maintaining the state apparatus; the fight for a balanced budget, the reduction of income tax to 20% and the establishment of a tax-free level of personal income up to 2000 thousand kroons per month from January 1, 2004; tougher penalties for drug-related crimes. In the field of foreign policy - the accession of Estonia to the EU (at the referendum held on September 14, 2003, 66.9% of the voters who took part (63.4%) voted in favor of joining the EU) and NATO, the further development of Estonian-Russian relations, cross-border cooperation between Estonia and Leningrad, Pskov and other regions of the Russian Federation, as well as cooperation within the framework of projects of the Council of the Baltic Sea States (CBSS).

NATO membership is one of the main objectives of Estonia's foreign and defense policy. In 2002, 2% of GDP was spent on defense. The preparation and reform of the national defense system is carried out in accordance with NATO standards. The regular armed forces number approx. 4500 people The whole of Estonia is divided into 4 military districts and 14 defense regions. The ground forces consist of 8 battalions: reconnaissance, security, peacekeeping and 5 infantry, as well as an artillery unit. They are armed with 32 armored personnel carriers, up to 60 mortars of various calibers, approx. 20 towed artillery pieces and St. 400 recoilless, 100 anti-aircraft guns and approx. 15 anti-tank guided missile launchers. Air Force has 110 people. and consist of 2 An-2 aircraft and 3 Mi-2 helicopters. The country's Navy - 300 people, one frigate, 2 patrol boats, 4 mine-sweeping ships, 2 auxiliary ships. There is also a border guard, numbering approx. 300 people on 30 patrol boats.

Estonia has diplomatic relations with the Russian Federation (established on October 9, 1991).

Economy of Estonia

Estonia is a state with an industrial-agrarian economy. Industry employs 33% of the economically active population. The main industries are oil shale mining and processing, light industry, food processing, woodworking, metalworking, mechanical engineering and production of building materials. Industrial enterprises in the country are concentrated in large cities. Metalworking, machine-building and instrument-making plants, light industry enterprises are located in Tallinn. In Narva there is a well-known large cotton mill (Krenholm Manufactory), in Sillamäe there is a plant for the production of rare metals (Silmet). The cities of Kohtla-Järve, Sillamäe and Narva have the main fuel and energy complexes. Small enterprises in the food and woodworking industries are evenly distributed throughout the country. The industry is experiencing crisis phenomena associated with structural changes, reorientation to the production of competitive products that meet the requirements of the world market.

In agriculture, St. 12% of the economically active population, the area of agricultural land is 2.57 million hectares. The main directions are meat and dairy farming, bacon production. They grow potatoes, vegetables, cereals and fruit crops. Agriculture remains the most backward sector of the economy, despite the measures taken. Estonia has lost the market for agricultural products in the east, and the export of products to the west is limited by various quotas. Only 1/3 of livestock and pig products are exported. The slow pace of privatization also had a negative impact on the state of the industry. In the last decade, the area of arable land has been declining, arable land occupies 25% of the country's territory, pastures - 11%.

Industry in 2002 accounted for 19.7% of GDP (including manufacturing - 18.6%), transport and communications - 15.9, trade - 14.6, services - 12.6, construction - 6.4 , other areas of activity - 30.8%.

There is a fairly developed and extensive transport network. The total length of the broad gauge railway is 1018 km (it was privatized in 2001), motor roads - 49,480 km (10,935 km coated, 38,545 km unpaved), navigable waterways - 320 km, gas pipeline - 420 km. There is a year-round sea (ports and harbors: Haapsalu, Kunda, Muuga, Tallinn) and air traffic (5 airports, the largest one is in Tallinn).

Estonia has consistently pursued economic reforms coordinated by the IMF and the World Bank and is a market economy country seeking to join the EU to strengthen economic security. One of the main conditions for joining the EU is WTO membership (Estonia joined this organization in 1999). Another important condition is macroeconomic stability.

Over the years of sovereign existence, the country has experienced a fairly long (5 years) and deep economic recession. In 2000, GDP in Estonia amounted to 85% of the 1990 level, the volume of industrial production decreased by 35%. The Russian monetary and financial crisis of 1998 had a negative impact on the development of the Estonian economy. The reorientation of foreign economic relations to the West to some extent mitigated its consequences, but could not completely replace the vast Russian market. Every sixth firm, exporting primarily food, chemical products, building materials, computers, suffered. Many Estonian enterprises were forced to almost halve production volumes (in the processing industry - by 40%, in the electronics industry - by 55%). The volume of exports to the Russian Federation decreased by 59%, while to the EU countries it increased by 10%. The sharp decline in food exports to the Russian Federation led to the development of a crisis of food overproduction in Estonia. Unemployment has increased. Slow growth in industrial and agricultural production began in 2000.

GDP dynamics in Estonia in the 1990s had a trend inherent in all transition economies: a strong decline gave way to unstable growth. At the same time, exports and foreign investment remained the main sources of growth in the face of limited domestic demand.

The volume of GDP (in constant prices) in 2002 amounted to 96.9 billion kroons, an increase compared to 2001 - 5.8%. Industrial output increased by 4.5%. The volume of production in the mining and processing industries amounted to 939.7 million kroons (an increase of 10.6%), in the manufacturing sector - 16,746.4 million kroons (9.8%). The largest growth was observed in the production of computers, office equipment (24.7%), electrical machines (20%), paper (20.3%) and textile (14.7%) industries.

The volume of work in construction increased by 14.7% and amounted to 5,551 million kroons, while the volume of retail and wholesale trade increased by 10.1% (12,896 million kroons). Income from the service sector increased (restaurant and hotel services - by 12.7%, financial activities - by 8.5%).

In agriculture and hunting, in 2002, a decrease in production by 4.7% was recorded. The livestock industry produced 92 thousand tons of meat, 1% more, eggs (247.3 million units) - 11% less, milk (620.7 thousand tons) - 9% less. In crop production: 543.7 thousand tons were harvested (a decrease of 2.7%), potatoes - 285.7 thousand tons (6.7% less).

The volume of Estonian foreign trade turnover in 2002 increased by 3% compared to 2001, amounting to 136.4 billion kroons, exports accounted for 42% (56.9 billion kroons), imports - 58% (79.8 billion kroons). Exports of Estonian goods decreased by 2.1%, while imports increased by 6%. Estonia's foreign trade deficit amounted to 39.7% of exports (in 2001 - 33%). The EU countries accounted for 68% of exports and 58% of imports, the CIS countries - 5 and 10%, respectively. The main export partners were: Finland (24.8%), Sweden (15.3%), Germany (9.9%), Latvia (7.4%), Great Britain (4.8%), Denmark (4, 4%), and for imports - Finland (17.2%), Germany (11.2%), Sweden (9.5%), Russia (7.4%), China (5.2%), Italy ( 4.6%). The negative balance in trade with the EU countries amounted to 5.6 billion kroons, the CIS - 5.1 billion kroons.

The unstable dynamics of the world economy and the negative trends in the development of the EU countries (economic slowdown) have had an impact on the Estonian economy in recent years. This is directly related to the shrinking export opportunities and the constant growth of imports. Estonia managed to partially compensate for losses in the EU markets by entering the markets of the CIS countries, mainly in the Russian Federation. In 2002, exports to the Russian Federation increased by 39.5% compared to 2001. Mechanical engineering products (about 60%) and foodstuffs are a major export item. Almost 50% of imports from the Russian Federation are mineral products (oil, oil products, gas, mineral fertilizers). Large import positions are metals (mainly ferrous and aluminium) and products made from them, as well as chemical products, timber products, primarily wood for the production of sawn timber, exported to the West.

There are no large investments from the Russian Federation in Estonia, shareholders from among legal entities and individuals are registered in 266 Estonian companies. Relatively large investments were made by RAO "Gazprom" in the petrochemical enterprise "Nitrofert" in Kohtla-Jarve. On the basis of the Nitrofert gas processing enterprise, with the participation of large Western companies and banks, work is underway on a project to create a modern high-tech chemical production. The products of this enterprise (fertilizers, methanol, etc.) will be exported to the markets of Western countries.

The transit of Russian cargo remains an important element of the Estonian national economy. The volume of these services significantly exceeds commodity exports to the Russian Federation in value terms. The Russian Federation is provided with services for the transportation and transshipment of oil and oil products, fertilizers, metals and a number of other goods. Income from the transit of these goods is up to 25% of the Estonian budget.

The reduction in demand in foreign markets had a downward effect on the dynamics of consumer prices. The trade deficit increased markedly. The increase in the balance of payments deficit was counteracted by a very tangible influx of investments from abroad. The volume of accumulated at the beginning. 2002 foreign direct investment (FDI) was $2.7 billion, or $1.8 thousand per capita. The largest foreign investors - Finland and Sweden - invested St. 2/3 of all foreign investment, Germany - 10%.

The economic development of Estonia in 2003 will continue to be determined by the dynamics of demand in the domestic market. Some growth in consumption will be possible due to the increase in wages, the expansion of opportunities for obtaining loans from commercial banks.

The Estonian banking system consists of the Bank of Estonia and a network of commercial banks (7), whose assets amounted to USD 3.78 billion (September 2002). Hansapank is one of the largest banks in the country. According to the Bank of Estonia, the deficit of the country's balance of payments in 2002 amounted to 13.3 billion kroons (930 million dollars), or 12.5% of GDP, 2 times more than in 2001. The increase in the deficit is caused by the ever-increasing import of services, indicating for active investment activities. Estonian external debt at stake. 2002 amounted to 12.3 billion kroons, or 11.6% of GDP (in 2001 - respectively 9.2 billion kroons, or 10% of GDP).

In 2002, GDP per capita reached 5,000 euros, which is 37% of the EU average. The average monthly wage was $337, the minimum wage was $103, the average pension was $92, and the average family income per person was $131. Food accounted for 32% of all expenses.

The number of employed in 2002 amounted to 586 thousand people, which increased by 1.4% compared to 2001. 67.2 thousand unemployed were registered (in 2001 - 83.1 thousand). The unemployment rate remains quite high, but there is a downward trend from 13.6% in 2000 to 10.6% in 2001 and 10.3% in 2002.

Science and culture of Estonia

In Estonia, the proportion of those with primary, basic (9 grades) and secondary education in the economically active population is 35.6%, secondary specialized (vocational) education - 35.3% and higher education - 29.1% (2000).

At the beginning of the 2001/02 academic year, 207.6 thousand people were studying in general education schools in Estonia. (26.2% - in Russian), in vocational schools - 29.8 thousand people. (35.3%) and in universities - 60.4 thousand people. (11.2%). In the field of vocational and higher education, a significant share of state funding remains. The number of students in higher education has increased dramatically due to paid education (both in public and private educational institutions).

Since 2002, a new system of funding state-funded places in higher education has been in operation. It provides for the conclusion of agreements between the Ministry of Education and the university for the entire nominal period of budgetary education (up to graduation, obtaining a master's or doctoral degree) for a certain number of places.

The country has 6 public and 8 private universities, 34 universities. The largest and most famous of them are the University of Tartu (founded in 1632), the Tallinn University of Technology, the Tallinn Pedagogical University, the Estonian Agricultural Academy in Tartu, the Tallinn University of the Arts, and the Estonian Academy of Music and Art in Tallinn.

Spending on science is 0.7% of GDP (2001). The leading scientific center of the country, the Estonian Academy of Sciences, was reorganized into a personal academy, and its 19 institutes were transferred to universities. A major center of science is the University of Tartu, where special attention is paid to research in the fields of Estonian philology and literature, history, ethnography and medicine.

Of the 114 museums in the country, the largest is the Estonian National Museum, founded in 1909 in Tartu, which has a rich collection of ethnographic materials. Estonia has approx. 600 libraries. The largest of these are the University of Tartu Library, the National Library in Tallinn and the Estonian Academic Library in Tallinn.

Estonian culture was formed under strong Scandinavian and German influence. In the beginning. 19th century Estonian literature began to emerge. The publication in 1857-61 by F. Kreutzwald of the national epic "Kalevipoeg" ("Son of Kalev") was a significant event. Poetry was developed in the 2nd half. 19th century L. Koidula (the founder of Estonian dramaturgy), A. Reinvald, M. Veske, M. Under and B. Alver gained the greatest fame. In the beginning. 20th century the poet G. Suits headed the Young Estonia cultural movement, such poets as P. Rummo (the play Cinderella's Game) and J. Kaplinsky gained fame.

The greatest achievement of prose in the 20th century. is a five-volume epic novel by A. Tammsaare "Truth and Justice", written in 1926-33. The historical novels of the most famous Estonian writer J. Kross reveal the moral problems of Estonian society. The national writer of Estonia is Juhan Smuul (1922-71).

An important role in Estonian culture is played by folklore, which is the inspiration for writers, artists, sculptors, and musicians. Artist J. Köhler and sculptor A. Weizenberg, Estonian graphic artists T. Vinta, V. Tolli and M. Leis can be attributed to the founders of Estonian national fine arts. Among Estonian composers, the most famous are E. Tubin (1905-82), A. Pärt (b. 1935), conductor N. Järvi (b. 1937)

It is an Estonian tradition to hold song festivals (in recent decades, the number of performers has reached 30 thousand people, and listeners and spectators up to 300 thousand people).

Estonia has approx. 30 large and small theaters - state, municipal and private (National Opera House "Estonia", State Russian Drama Theater, Theater "Vanemuine", etc.). Famous singers - Georg Ots (1920-75), Anne Veski.

Estonia is one of the three countries that in Russia are called the Baltic republics. This is a small country that is part of the EU and NATO.

Estonia on the world map is located next to Russia. This is the northernmost Baltic state, bordering on the Leningrad region.

Estonia on the map of the world and Europe in Russian

The official name of the country - Republic of Estonia. This is a small state, occupying 134th place in the world in terms of its territory. The country lives in the same time zone with Eastern European time - GMT + 2, so there is no time difference with the capital of Russia.

The population of the Republic of Estonia is only 1.31 million people.

Capital

Capital of Estonia Tallinn is a major port city world heritage UNESCO. All major cities are concentrated in its old part. Many buildings in it date back to the 13th-15th centuries.

At the top of the old city is Toompea Castle. It was built in the 13th century by German knights. It currently houses the country's parliament. Located in the southern part of the castle, the Long Herman Tower is the national symbol of Estonia.

The heart of the old city Town Hall Square. Along its perimeter are old houses. Starting from the 15th century, every year the main Christmas tree of the country is set up on the Town Hall Square. The lower part of the city is surrounded on one side by a 2 km long fortress wall with 20 towers. The height of the wall is 14-16 meters. The thickness of the fortress walls is 3 m.

Big cities

There are no cities in Estonia with more than a million inhabitants. The largest cities in the country, in addition to Tallinn: Pärnu, Narva and Tartu. The population of these cities is constantly decreasing.

At the moment, according to various estimates, less than 100 thousand people live in the largest cities of the country.

According to the census Population cities is:

Tartu– 95,000 people (the city is located in Tartumaa County);
Narva– 62,000 people (the city is located in Ida-Viumaa county);
Parnu- a little over 40,000 people (the city is located in Pärnu County).

The oldest city in the country is Tallinn. In list most beautiful settlements Estonia:

Kuressaare. The city is surrounded by the moat of the old castle and fortress walls, has a cozy beach.
Haapsalu. The main attraction of the seaside town is the medieval episcopal castle.
Rakvere. The city is popular with tourists. Its main attraction is the ruined castle built on Vallimägi hill.

The exact location of Estonia on the map of Europe is in this video:

It is interesting:

Subscribe to our interesting Vkontakte group:

In contact with