Nõustamist
Nõustamist is an Estonian concept that refers broadly to the act of providing advice, guidance, or consultation to individuals, organizations, or governmental bodies. The word comes from Estonian noun "nõustamine," itself derived from the verb "nõustada," meaning "to advise" or "to counsel." It is employed in everyday speech and in formal contexts, including legal documents, public administration, business planning, and health services. Historically, the term entered modern Estonian legal and administrative lexicon in the early 1990s as the country transitioned to market-oriented governance. Estonia’s constitution and statutes require that public authorities shall provide information and counseling to citizens regarding their rights and obligations, thereby institutionalizing the notion of obligatory “nõustamist” in public service.
In contemporary practice, Estonian “nõustamist” manifests in several domains. In legal and civic contexts, citizens may
The Estonian model promotes an inclusive, people‑centric approach, emphasizing transparency, accessibility, and respect for individual autonomy.