Estonia is situated in the North-West of Europe. In its north it is surrounded by the Finnish Bay, in its west by the Baltic Sea. Its neighboring countries are Russia in the east and Latvia in the south and south-east. Estonia is not far from Finland: it is only 65 kilometers across the Finnish Bay from Helsinki to Tallinn.
Territory and population
Estonia occupied an area of about 45 thousand square kilometers with a population of 1.6 million people. Its population is composed of 65% Estonians and 28% Russians, while the others are represented by Ukrainians, Byelorussians, Finns, and other nationalities. Estonian largest city is its capital – Tallinn with 397.2 thousand people, which is one third of all population; then goes Tartu (101.2 thousand), Narva (67.8 thousand), Kochla-Yarve (46.8 thousand) and Pyarnu (44.8 thousand).
Languages
Country’s official language is Estonian, which is relates to the Baltic-Finnish branch of Finnish-Ugrian language family. Another language, which is spoken in majority by non-Estonians, is Russian. Finnish, English and German languages also play an important role and are quite common in everyday life.
Religion
The main religion is Lutheranism. Orthodox, Baptist, Methodical and Catholic churches are also represented among other relatively large confessions. An Orthodox Uspensky-Pyuhticky nunnery is situated in Kuremyae.
Government symbols
Estonian flag is blue-black-white with each color bearing symbolic meaning. Blue is the reflection of Estonian sky, lakes, and sea; it is the symbol of truth and loyalty to national ideas. Black is the color of Motherland’s soil and national frock-coat. White represents nation’s striving for light and happiness. Estonian hymn “Mu isamaa, mu onn ja room” (My motherland is my happiness and joy) was co-written by a composer Fridrich Pacius, and a poet, Voldemar Yanncen. Estonia’s State Emblem, a golden shield with three walking lions, roots from the Danish Royal Emblem. The Dutch kings presented Tallinn and Haryu-Viruss chivalry with a right of using such emblem.
Political State
Ryigikoku – one-chamber parliament, consisting of 101 delegates, elected for a term of 4 years has legislative power in Estonia. Executive power is in the hands of the government, which reports to the Ryigikoku. Appointment and dismissal of government are both Ryigikoku’s competency. The President serves first of all representative functions, but has some executive power as well. The President has veto power for postponing the passing of laws, and his signature is needed for appointing the members of government. It is within his competency to present candidates for a number of highest ranks for Parliament’s consideration. The president is the commander-in-chief of State Armed Forces. The president is elected by the Ryikikoku for a term of 5 years.
