Feb 16 • 07:15 UTC 🇪🇪 Estonia ERR

Kalev Stoicescu: the language requirement does not exempt from military service

Kalev Stoicescu argues that establishing a language requirement for military service does not actually exempt individuals from serving in the Estonian Defense Forces.

Kalev Stoicescu emphasizes the need for a full transition to Estonian-language education, a policy long overdue since Estonia regained independence. He points out that even decades later, the segregated education system continues to produce thousands of young citizens who possess little to no proficiency in Estonian. This lack of language skills poses significant challenges for national integration and defense, as many conscripts are not sufficiently prepared for military service, which traditionally focuses on military training rather than language acquisition.

Moreover, Stoicescu criticizes previous governments for failing to tackle this crucial issue with the urgency it requires. As a result, the military has had to step in to address the language training and integration of conscripts, which diverts their focus from their main purpose — providing military training. The article underscores that military service should not be a substitute for language education but rather highlights the need for comprehensive educational reforms that prioritize proficiency in the state language.

Ultimately, Stoicescu's commentary calls for a reevaluation of how Estonia approaches language education within the context of military service, stressing that language skills are critical not only for civic integration but also for national defense capabilities. The discussion signals a broader societal need to bridge the gap in language competency in a country where the majority language is vital for participation in both civic life and defense.

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