Kaitseklassid

Kaitseklassid is Estonian for defense classes and is used to describe programs, courses, or organizational activities focused on teaching participants about national defense, civil protection, and emergency preparedness. The term combines kaitse (defense, protection) with klass (class) and is used in various educational and youth contexts rather than as a single standardized curriculum.

In schools, kaitseklassid may refer to elective modules within civics, safety education, or health classes that cover topics such as basic security concepts, first aid, communication with authorities, evacuation procedures, and disaster preparedness. Some programs are conducted in cooperation with state defense institutions, civil protection authorities, or voluntary defense organizations like Kaitseliit, and may aim to foster civic responsibility and readiness for civilian service.

The exact structure and content of kaitseklassid vary by school, municipality, or program. They can take the form of short courses, semester-long modules, or after-school clubs, and they may culminate in demonstrations or drills. The concept reflects Estonia's broader emphasis on preparedness and national resilience, and is connected to related terms such as kaitseõpe (defense education) and Kaitseliit (Defence League).

See also: Kaitseliit, Kaitsevägi, Kaitseõpe, Civil defense.