Estonia - Profile Updates

Estonia/ 4. Current issues in cultural policy development and debate

4.1 Main cultural policy issues and priorities

Priorities of the new Developmental Plan for Culture (2010-2013) are: preservation and mediation of tangible and intangible heritage; guarantee a diverse cultural life; creation and mediation of diverse and balanced broadcaster content; and the stimulation of both professional and amateur sports.

 Estonia Chapter 41

Estonia/ 4. Current issues in cultural policy development and debate

4.1 Main cultural policy issues and priorities

New programmes assist NGOs and the public sector to target regional and local development, while private sector support is aimed at promoting cultural goods and services and to foster collaboration with partners abroad.

 Estonia Chapter 41

Estonia/ 4. Current issues in cultural policy development and debate

4.2.1 Cultural minorities, groups and communities

An application by an NGO for Russian cultural autonomy in Estonia was dismissed in 2009, although the decision has been appealed.

 Estonia Chapter 421

Estonia/ 4. Current issues in cultural policy development and debate

4.3 Other relevant issues and debates

New cultural buildings planned in recent years have been put on hold due to the economic recession.

 Estonia Chapter 43

Estonia/ 4. Current issues in cultural policy development and debate

4.3 Other relevant issues and debates

A vivid media dispute about the roles and expectations of culture locally and internationally took place in 2009.

 Estonia Chapter 43

Estonia/ 4. Current issues in cultural policy development and debate

4.3 Other relevant issues and debates

In 2009 the Ministry of Culture announced the administrative union of local museums due to a 20% cut in funding and with the aim of improving management and services.

 Estonia Chapter 43

Estonia/ 4. Current issues in cultural policy development and debate

4.3 Other relevant issues and debates

Some slow progress has been made in setting up a Percent Law for new buildings to benefit objects of art or interior design.

 Estonia Chapter 43

Estonia/ 5.1 General legislation

5.1.5 Tax laws

In 2009, VAT on books and periodicals was raised from 5% to 9% and on concert takings to the full 20%.

 Estonia Chapter 515

Estonia/ 5.3 Sector specific legislation

5.3.9 Legislation for self-employed artists

Social welfare benefits for unemployed artists equaling the minimum wage have been extended to twelve months in 2009 (increased from 6months).

 Estonia Chapter 539