Ametivõimude

Ametivõimud are bodies and persons authorized by law to exercise public power. In Estonia, the term covers central government ministries and agencies, local government authorities, as well as independent public bodies and offices that administer and enforce statutes, provide public services, or regulate specific activities. Ametivõimud perform administrative functions, issue permits and licenses, impose penalties, conduct inspections, and render decisions that have legal effect on individuals and entities.

Legal basis and division of powers: Ametivõimude actions are grounded in the Constitution of the Republic of Estonia and in statute. The Estonian system is based on separation of powers among the legislative, executive, and judicial branches. Public authorities derive their mandates from specific laws and must act within the limits of the law; their acts can be reviewed by courts and, in most cases, can be appealed.

Examples include: ministries (e.g., Ministry of Finance, Ministry of the Interior), government agencies (e.g., Tax and Customs Board), law enforcement (police), border guard, local councils, and specialized independent authorities such as the Chancellor of Justice (Õiguskantsler), the Data Protection Inspectorate (Andmekaitse Inspektsioon), and Riigikontroll (National Audit Office).

Accountability and oversight: Public authorities are subject to oversight by courts, parliamentary committees, and independent supervisory bodies. The Chancellor of Justice protects constitutional rights and legality; the Data Protection Inspectorate enforces data privacy; Riigikontroll audits the use of public funds. Citizens can challenge administrative decisions before administrative courts or general courts, depending on the matter.

Transparency and access: Ametivõimud are required to publish decisions, provide reasons, and enforce the principle of proportionality. In Estonia, digital governance and e-services are central to how ametivõimud interact with residents.