Eriolukorrad

Eriolukorrad are emergency or exceptional situations in Estonia during which normal governance rules may be temporarily adjusted to protect life, health, property and national security. The term is used to describe a set of legally defined regimes that come into effect when broad disruption or danger affects the public or state functions. Eriolukorrad are distinct from ordinary administrative measures and are intended to enable a coordinated and timely response.

The legal framework for eriolukorrad is set out in Estonian law, notably in the Eriolukorra seaded (Emergency Situations Act) and related statutes. Competent authorities, such as the government and, in certain cases, the President, can declare eriolukorrad, specify their scope and duration, and lay down the measures that may be taken. The framework also provides for oversight, sunset provisions and avenues for judicial or parliamentary review to prevent misuse.

Triggers for eriolukorrad include natural disasters (for example floods or severe storms), major accidents or infrastructure failures, public health emergencies, and security threats or external aggression that disrupt essential services or governance. Once declared, eriolukorrad authorize a coordinated response across emergency services, civil protection, and relevant public agencies, and may involve mobilization of resources, temporary restrictions on movement or assembly, requisition of property or facilities, or other extraordinary measures.

Rights protections remain a consideration; actions during eriolukorrad must be proportionate, necessary, and time-limited, with mechanisms for accountability and reversibility as the situation evolves. For precise definitions, triggers, and procedures, the current Estonian Emergency Situations Act and related legal texts should be consulted.