According to Foreign Minister Margus Tsahkna, the top ranking confirms Estonia’s long-standing commitment to maintaining a free and open internet. “For Estonia, freedom of expression online is an integral part of international digital policy and human rights, and our status as a digital nation has become one of our strongest calling cards. A free and open internet is essential for a democratic society to function. It increases transparency, strengthens civil society and creates the conditions for economic development,” Tsahkna said.
“Estonia works internationally to ensure that digital development goes hand in hand with the protection of human rights, security and trustworthiness. We support the development of international principles that help build digital infrastructure and prevent the misuse of technology,” the Foreign Minister stressed.
In 2025, Estonia chaired the international Freedom Online Coalition (FOC), promoting the protection of human rights in the digital environment, a free and secure internet, and inclusive digital development. Protecting and promoting digital rights is also one of Estonia’s priorities as a member of the UN Human Rights Council during the 2026–2028 period. Estonia is also actively involved in shaping international principles for AI governance, co-leading the UN Global Dialogue on AI Governance with El Salvador.
The next Tallinn Digital Summit will take place on 5 and 6 November, bringing together representatives and experts from different countries to discuss advances in artificial intelligence, its impact on society and the digital environment of the future. The event will also feature a presentation of Freedom House’s internet freedom index.
Freedom House’s report is available in English HERE.
