Reisipäevadeks

Reisipäevadeks is a traditional Estonian folk insurance system where participants contribute to a communal fund to provide financial assistance to members in case of illness, injury, or other unforeseen circumstances.

The reisipäevadeks system is based on mutual aid and relies on the contributions of all members to financially support those in need. In exchange for their contributions, members receive coverage for a portion of their expenses related to illness, injury, or other unforeseen events. This system was especially important in rural Estonia, where access to formal healthcare and social services may have been limited.

Participation in reisipäevadeks is collective and often informal. Members may choose to contribute a fixed amount of money per event or agree to help one another in times of need. While formal contracts are not always used, participants generally adhere to an unwritten understanding that mutual aid is provided. The system is characterized by informality and trust between members.

Historically, reisipäevadeks was an essential component of Estonian folk welfare. However, with the introduction of more formal social security systems, such as pensions and healthcare, the need for reisipäevadeks decreased significantly. Today, while the traditional form of reisipäevadeks is relatively rare, elements of the system continue to influence informal social support structures within Estonian communities.