Agentuurid

Agentuurid is the Estonian term for agencies—entities that act on behalf of others to carry out defined tasks or provide services. The word covers both public sector agencies and private sector agencies, regardless of size or sector. In general, an agentuur has a formal mandate, a specific scope of work, and a degree of organizational autonomy.

Public sector agentuurid are government bodies established by law to implement policy, regulate activities, or deliver public services. They often operate with legal personality and a governance framework that may include a director general, a supervisory board, or a commission. Their budgets are typically approved by the legislature, and they are subject to audits, transparency requirements, and reporting obligations. Common functions include licensing, enforcement, statistics, research, and the delivery of government services.

Private sector agentuurid cover a range of specialized service providers that act on behalf of clients under contract. Examples include advertising agencies, recruitment or talent agencies, travel agencies, and public relations or management consulting firms. These agencies typically earn fees, commissions, or retainers, and their work is defined by service agreements, performance metrics, and client confidentiality requirements.

Key features shared by most agentuurid include a defined mandate, formal accountability, and a need to balance independence with stakeholder oversight. Depending on jurisdiction, the line between autonomy and control can differ, influencing transparency, procurement rules, and regulatory compliance. The term underscores the diverse roles agencies play in public administration and in private markets.