Pleegitamisel

Pleegitamisel is a term used in Estonian to describe the process of adopting a child from a foreign country. The term is a combination of the words "pleeg" (foster) and "gitamisel" (adoption), reflecting the unique aspects of Estonian adoption practices.

In Estonia, adoption is regulated by the Adoption Act, which outlines the procedures and requirements for both domestic and international adoptions. The process typically involves several stages, including the preparation of the adoptive parents, a home study, and the matching of the child with the adoptive family. The adoption process can be lengthy, often taking several years, due to the thorough evaluation required to ensure the best interests of the child.

International adoptions in Estonia are facilitated by the Estonian Central Authority for Child Protection, which works with international adoption agencies to find suitable matches for Estonian children in need of permanent homes. The adoption process for international children involves additional steps, such as the approval of the child's birth country and the completion of post-adoption reports to monitor the child's well-being.

Pleegitamisel is an important aspect of Estonia's social welfare system, providing a permanent home for children who may not have one otherwise. It is a complex process that requires careful planning and preparation, but it offers the opportunity for children to grow up in loving, stable families. The Estonian adoption system is committed to ensuring that all adoptions are conducted in the best interests of the child, with a focus on permanency, stability, and the preservation of cultural identity.