Who Keeps a Small Language Alive?

In December 2022, the Estonian Parliament initiated an action plan to fully transition all public schools and kindergartens to Estonian language education by 2035. More recently, as of January 2026, foreigners in Estonia applying for temporary residence with the intent of transitioning to permanent residence must also demonstrate a minimum level of A2 language proficiency in Estonian. In a country where language separation remains one of the most divisive features of society, these policies are meant to help preserve the Estonian language and identity.

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