By early 2025, more than 42,000 people in Estonia had received international protection — the majority fleeing the war in Ukraine since February 2022. Thousands more have arrived in search of safety but have not formally registered for temporary protection. While many are Ukrainian, Estonia has also welcomed people displaced by conflict, persecution, or insecurity in other parts of the world — including Syria, Afghanistan, Russia, Belarus, and Türkiye, among others.
Each person brings a unique story, but many face similar challenges. Starting over in a new country means navigating unfamiliar systems, finding safe housing, learning a new language, and adjusting to cultural differences — all while coping with the emotional impact of displacement.
ERC has been supporting crisis-affected people in Estonia since our foundation in 2000. Over the years, we’ve worked alongside people and families who have been forced to flee their homes due to conflict, violence, or persecution — helping them navigate the challenges of displacement and begin rebuilding their lives with dignity. At the same time, we work with local communities to foster understanding and inclusion, helping to create a society where everyone feels safe, valued, and welcome.
“The hardest thing was to come to terms with the fact that life could never be the same as it was before the war.”
– Yelyzaveta from Ukraine
Our response
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Explore all the services we offer for refugees in Estonia.
