Estonian healthcare groups demand stricter language rules to curb Russian use

Four leading healthcare organisations in Estonia have raised concerns about the growing use of Russian in the country’s medical system. The Estonian Society of Medical Students, the Association of Young Doctors, the Union of Doctors, and the Estonian Nurses’ Union are pushing for stronger enforcement of Estonian as the primary working language. The groups have called on medical institutions to ensure that Estonian remains the main language for professional communication. They also want educational bodies and professional associations to highlight the legal requirements for language proficiency in healthcare roles.

Instead of making foreign language skills a fixed requirement in job ads, the organisations propose assessing Estonian language ability during recruitment. Their aim is to prevent situations where non-Estonian speakers are hired without meeting the necessary language standards. The statement follows worries that Russian is increasingly being used in clinical settings. The organisations stress that clear communication in Estonian is essential for patient safety and effective teamwork.

The appeal targets hospitals, clinics, and training programmes across Estonia. By adjusting hiring practices and reinforcing language rules, the groups hope to maintain high standards of care. Their recommendations focus on practical steps rather than broad policy changes.