Estonian Demographer: A Smaller Population Can Sustain Estonian Culture

Ene-Margit Tiit, a leading demographer, argues that Estonia's culture and identity can thrive without population growth. She highlights the connection between population issues and Estonian identity, noting signs of recovery as Estonians return home. Tiit believes that a slightly smaller population can sustain the nation's culture.

Updated on

November 19, 2024

Ene-Margit Tiit, professor emeritus and demographer, believes that the survival of the Estonian people, language, and high culture does not rely on population growth. She shared her insights on the talk show "Plekktrumm," and in her book "The Estonian Population – Uncounted and Counted."

Tiit emphasized that Estonian identity and population issues are deeply connected. She noted that during the Soviet era, it was difficult to access population data, leading to concerns about the declining proportion of Estonians.

Her research on family dynamics and population began 60 years ago at the State University of Tartu. She believes that happy families come in many forms, and the factors contributing to happiness are varied.

Tiit highlighted that Estonia's population has shown signs of recovery, with many Estonians returning from abroad. She believes that living conditions in Estonia are favorable, contributing to this trend.

Tiit argues that a smaller population can still sustain Estonian culture and identity. The world is experiencing a global shift in population trends, and Estonia is part of this process. She concludes that life can continue successfully with a slightly smaller population.