In 2026, more than 40,000 people in Estonia had received international protection — the majority fleeing the war in Ukraine since February 2022. Thousands more have arrived in search of safety but have not formally registered for temporary protection. While many are Ukrainian, Estonia has also welcomed people displaced by conflict, persecution, or insecurity in other parts of the world — including Syria, Afghanistan, Russia, Belarus, and Türkiye, among others.

Each person brings a unique story, but many face similar challenges. Starting over in a new country means navigating unfamiliar systems, finding safe housing, learning a new language, and adjusting to cultural differences — all while coping with the emotional impact of displacement.

“The hardest thing was to come to terms with the fact that life could never be the same as it was before the war.”

– Yelyzaveta from Ukraine

Yelizaveta from Ukraine

Our response

Protection and empowerment
Protection and empowerment
We support the adaptation of crisis-affected people through counselling, community activities, and mental health programmes. Additionally, we systematically advocate for the rights of refugees and raise awareness among locals about the issues related to forced migration.
Estonian Refugee Council
Economic recovery
We support crisis-affected people in rebuilding their livelihoods — whether by starting a small business or finding meaningful employment. Our focus is on sustainable, long-term solutions that help people earn a stable income and provide for their families well beyond the end of the programme.

Learn more

Explore all the services we offer for refugees in Estonia.

News

Young Ukrainians ESF
As October arrived, the Language Ladder project came to an end. Over the past year, we have supported young Ukrainians living in Estonia in learning Estonian,…
  • Estonia
  • Protection and empowerment
ESF
The Estonian Refugee Council has developed a practical guide for teachers, youth workers, education professionals and other specialists working with Ukrainian…
  • Estonia
  • Protection and empowerment
Conference 2025
On 5 November, the Estonian Refugee Council’s Tallinn Humanitarian Conference returns for its fourth edition. This year we explore three urgent themes shaping…
  • Estonia