Integration of Refugees in Estonia - Participation and Empowerment, Stockholm, UNHCR Regional Representation for Northern Europe, December 2016

Country

Estonia

Title

Integration of Refugees in Estonia - Participation and Empowerment, Stockholm, UNHCR Regional Representation for Northern Europe, December 2016

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Year

2016

Type of publication

Report

Geographical coverage

National

Area/location of interest

Not applicable - national level

Type of Institution

UN body

Institution

UNHCR | United Nations High Commissioner for Refugees

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.

DISCLAIMERThe information presented here is collected under contract by the FRA's research network FRANET. The information and views contained do not necessarily reflect the views or the official position of the FRA.