Religiously unaffiliated (59.6%); Christian (39.9%). Among Christians, 51% are Lutherans and 45% are Orthodox (2010)
Political system
A unicameral national assembly is elected for four year terms, and a President for five-year terms. All presidential candidates must gain the nominations of at least one-fifth of assembly deputies in order to stand.
Electoral system
There are 12 electoral districts with eight to 12 mandates in each. A candidate is elected by gaining more than ‘quota’ (the number of votes cast divided by the number of mandates), or else being on a party list which achieves more than quota nationally. A presidential candidate must achieve a two-thirds majority of votes to be elected. If one does not, then an electoral college, comprising national deputies and local councillors, must choose the president by simple majority.
Current leaders
President: Kersti Kaljulaid (b.1969), since October 2016)
Previous leaders:
Presidents: Toomas Ilves (2006-2016); Arnold Rüütel (2001-2006) Prime Ministers: Taavi Rõivas (2014-2016); Juhan Parts (2003-2005)
Joined the EU/EC
2004
Commissioner from country in Barroso II College of Commissioners, and portfolio
Siim Kallas (Transport)
Number of MEPs
6
Turnout in 2014 EP elections (%)
43.2
Member of eurozone
Yes
Except where a specific reference is inserted, the sources for this profile are either Neill Nugent’s book itself, or Barry Turner (ed.), The Statesman’s Yearbook Online, Basingstoke and New York: Palgrave Macmillan. If your library subscribes, you can gain access at http://www.statesmansyearbook.com
