Kooskõlastusmenetlus

Kooskõlastusmenetlus is a procedural mechanism in Estonian public administration used to obtain input and, where required, consent from relevant authorities before a draft act, regulation, planning document, or significant project is adopted. Its goal is to ensure legal coherence, compatibility with higher-level rules, and expert scrutiny from different sectors.

The procedure is typically triggered by the preparation of acts, regulations, and planning or environmental documents that may have broad impact. The initiating authority circulates the draft to designated kooskõlastus authorities (such as ministries, agencies, or regional bodies) and provides a deadline for written comments. Each authority reviews the proposal from its mandate and may propose changes or attach conditions. After the set deadline, the initiating body compiles the received opinions into a consolidated package and, if necessary, amends the draft accordingly. The final version is then forwarded for adoption or approval, with the kooskõlastus opinions archived as part of the preparation materials.

The opinions produced in kooskõlastus are generally advisory, unless a specific legal rule requires explicit consent or alteration as a precondition for proceeding. The exact procedures, deadlines, and participating authorities are defined in sector-specific laws and in the general Administrative Procedure Act, as well as in planning and environmental legislation.

Benefits of kooskõlastus include improved cross-sector coherence, reduced risk of later amendments or objections, and greater transparency in decision-making. Critics argue that it can prolong processes and create additional administrative steps. It remains an important tool for coordinating public policy and regulatory activities in Estonia.