Integration of Refugees in Estonia - Participation and Empowerment, Stockholm, UNHCR Regional Representation for Northern Europe, December 2016
Country
Estonia
Title
Year
Type of publication
Geographical coverage
National
Area/location of interest
Type of Institution
UN body
Institution
Main Thematic Focus
Hate speech Hate crime Racism & xenophobia
Target Population
Refugees & asylum seekers
Key findings
The report briefly touches the subject of anti-immigrant hate crime and hate speech in Estonia. It iterates that Estonia should amend the Penal Code, by including a specific provision ensuring that the motive of hatred is seen as an aggravating circumstance in proceedings under criminal law. A similar recommendation was also proposed by Estonian Human Rights Centre.
The report mentions that with the growth of support for populist politicians in Estonia, anti-refugee groups are becoming more widespread in social media. The attacks of the asylum seekers’ accommodation centre, lack of effective legal protection and anti-immigration sentiments have a negative impact on feeling safe in Estonia, especially for refugees who stand out because of their skin colour, religious affiliation or other factors.
Methodology (Qualitative/Quantitative and exact type used, questionnaires etc)
The report was compiled using firstly, desk research on academic literature, studies, reports, media articles, relevant legislation, policies, strategies, procedures, available statistics, financing mechanisms, institutional roles and responsibilities and the involvement of non-state actors. Secondly, semi-structured interviews with key integration stakeholders in Estonia, as well as additional written comments and observations collected from key stakeholders as part of the desk research. Thirdly, feedback gained through a PA involving focus group discussions with refugees.
Sample details and representativeness
Focus group discussions were held with a total of 23 adult and 4 child refugees, all of them were clients of Johannes Mihkelson Centre and Estonian Refugee Council.