Tsiviilkaitse

Tsiviilkaitse, meaning civil protection, refers to the set of measures, institutions and arrangements designed to protect civilians, their homes and critical infrastructure from disasters and other threats, and to support rapid recovery in peacetime, emergencies and wartime. It integrates prevention, preparedness, response and recovery activities at local, national and sometimes international levels.

Key functions include risk assessment and planning, public warning and information, evacuation and shelter, first aid and medical care, protection of essential services such as power and water, and coordination of relief and rescue operations. Training, drills and public education help maintain readiness among authorities and citizens.

Governance typically involves state authorities, local governments, and collaboration with emergency services, utilities, armed forces, and voluntary organizations. Plans and resources are organized to enable timely decision making, interoperable communications, and surplus resource management during crises.

In Estonia, tsiviilkaitse forms part of the Riigikaitse (state defense) framework and is implemented through agencies such as the Rescue Board (Päästeamet), the Police and Border Guard Board (Politsei- ja Piirivalveamet) and national ministries, in cooperation with municipalities. Public information campaigns and regular exercises aim to keep the population prepared for a range of hazards, including natural disasters, technological incidents and security threats.

Historically developed during the transition from Soviet-era civil defense to a modern civilian protection system, tsiviilkaitse emphasizes risk reduction, civilian protection and resilience within national security planning.