Estonian detox centers are increasingly serving as hidden winter shelters for the homeless, with a notable rise in the number of individuals seeking refuge from harsh winter conditions.
Estonian winters are harsh, and social issues like homelessness and poverty have reached a level that heavily burdens both social services and the police. Many individuals are seeking warmth in detox centers, indicating a troubling trend. According to Margus Trees, head of the custody center in the Northern Police Prefecture, the number of people relying on these facilities has grown by a thousand over a few years, reflecting a deepening social crisis.
The situation has escalated as individuals arriving at these detox centers are no longer limited to those simply suffering from alcohol-related issues. Many are citizens facing more complex social problems who are looking for refuge from the biting winter cold. This development complicates the role of police and social services, as they find themselves navigating the increasing pressures of both law enforcement and social support, which are becoming increasingly intertwined as more citizens require immediate assistance.
The role of detox centers has expanded significantly according to the statistics provided by Trees. He noted that in 2023, 1,995 individuals were brought to these centers for detoxification, and by 2024, that number is expected to rise to 2,035. This upward trajectory indicates an urgent need for additional resources and support systems to adequately address the multifaceted challenges these individuals face during the harsh winter months, underscoring the growing social crisis in Estonia.
