“Estonia’s independence is founded on the conviction that national identity, education and culture are the pillars of a state’s continuity,” emphasised Rein Tammsaar, Estonia’s permanent representative to the UN. “Literature and the tradition of reading have helped preserve our identity, culture, language and values even in the darkest of times. Children’s literature has played a particularly important role in passing on this cultural code, as it helps nurture and sustain the Estonian spirit among the youngest members of our society. It is therefore symbolic to mark Independence Day with an exhibition that highlights Estonian stories through children’s literature.”
The exhibition features 23 illustrations from Estonian children’s books interpreting the principles of the UN Convention on the Rights of the Child. The works address children’s rights to education, protection, identity, participation and development, and demonstrate how stories help shape values and a sense of responsibility. The exhibition offers an international audience the opportunity to discover the diversity of Estonian children’s literature and its influence on the development of young people’s worldviews.
Protecting children’s rights and promoting quality education are among Estonia’s priorities at the UN. In 2026, Estonia will serve as President of the Executive Board of the United Nations Children’s Fund (UNICEF), focusing, among other things, on innovation in education and the responsible use of digital solutions and artificial intelligence to improve the quality and accessibility of learning. Estonia acts as an advocate for children’s rights both as President of the UNICEF Executive Board and as a member of the UN Human Rights Council, drawing attention to the situation of children in armed conflicts and humanitarian crises and emphasising the importance of compliance with international humanitarian law.
“As a father of two, I see every day how important it is that education provides young people with a strong foundation in a rapidly changing world. As President of the UNICEF Executive Board, Estonia wishes to support solutions that help children cope better and fully realise their potential,” Ambassador Tammsaar added.
The exhibition was organised by the Estonian Children’s Literature Centre in cooperation with Estonia’s permanent mission to the UN, the Ministry of Foreign Affairs and the Ministry of Culture.
Photos from the opening of the exhibition.
