Järeltulnud

Järeltulnud is a term used in Estonian to describe a person who has been adopted into a family after the birth of their biological parents. The term is derived from the word "järeltulija," which translates to "successor" or "descendant." In the context of adoption, it refers to the child who is adopted after the birth of their biological parents.

The concept of järeltulnud is rooted in Estonian cultural and legal practices. Traditionally, Estonian families have been encouraged to adopt children who have been left without parental care, often due to the biological parents' inability to provide for them. This practice is seen as a way to provide a loving home and a stable upbringing for children who might otherwise face neglect or abandonment.

The term järeltulnud is used to distinguish these adopted children from those who are adopted as infants or young children. It emphasizes the idea that these children are not orphans but rather descendants of their biological parents, who have chosen to adopt them as part of their family.

In recent years, the use of the term järeltulnud has been subject to debate and criticism. Some argue that it perpetuates a negative stereotype about the biological parents, implying that they are unable or unwilling to care for their children. Others argue that it is a neutral term that simply describes a specific type of adoption.

Despite the debate, the term järeltulnud remains in use in Estonian society, reflecting the complex and often contentious nature of adoption practices in the country.