Estonia’s Language Rule for MPs Sparks Fierce Constitutional Debate
Estonia's Council on the State Language has proposed a controversial new requirement. It suggests that all candidates for parliamentary deputy must demonstrate proficiency in the Estonian language. The Council argues that this move aims to address current deputies' struggles with understanding legal acts, speaking at meetings, and communicating with voters in Estonian.
The proposed requirement seeks to reinstate a norm that was previously in place until 2002. However, the Estonian Ministry of Education has opposed this initiative, warning of potential violations of constitutional rights. Some Estonian MPs have expressed their preference for communicating in Russian rather than Estonian. The Council's proposal has sparked debate, with no clear information available about the chairman's background or the specific reasons behind this proposal.
The Council's proposal to make Estonian language proficiency a prerequisite for parliamentary candidacy has raised significant debate. While some argue it will improve communication and understanding, others warn of potential constitutional infringements. The final outcome remains uncertain, with further discussion and possibly legal review expected.
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