Riigieelarved

Riigieelarved are Estonia’s state budgets. They outline the government’s planned revenues and expenditures for the coming year, and often for a multi-year period, serving as the main instrument for setting fiscal policy and allocating public funds.

A riigieelarve typically includes revenue projections (such as income tax, social security contributions, value-added tax, corporate income tax, and other taxes and non-tax revenues) and expenditure appropriations by function (social protection, education, health, defense, transport, public order, administration, environmental protection). It also covers financing details, including any deficit or surplus and how it will be financed through borrowing or reserves, as well as contingency reserves.

Process: In Estonia, the government, led by the Ministry of Finance, prepares the draft riigieelarve and submits it to the Riigikogu, the parliament. The parliament debates, amends if needed, and passes the State Budget Act (riigieelarve seadus) for the next year. The budgeting cycle generally aligns with the fiscal year and EU financial regulation and often includes a multiannual financial framework.

Oversight and rules: Public finances in Estonia are guided by rules to promote sustainability. The Riigikontroll (State Audit Office) audits spending, while the Ministry of Finance and other authorities monitor implementation and report on accounts. Supplementary budgets may be issued if adjustments are required.

Impact: Riigieelarved determine the level and quality of public services, investments, and social programs. They reflect policy priorities and are subject to democratic process, transparency, and public scrutiny.