erimeetmeid

Erimeetmeid is the Estonian term for extraordinary or special measures taken by a government in response to exceptional circumstances that threaten public safety, health, order, or the functioning of essential services. The concept covers temporary, targeted actions designed to prevent or mitigate harm and to restore normal conditions as quickly as possible. Erimeetmeid are intended to be proportionate and necessary, with the goal of limiting restrictions to what is strictly required.

Legal basis and safeguards typically accompany erimeetmeid. In many jurisdictions, including Estonia, such measures are defined within a legal framework that specifies when they may be used, the scope and duration of the measures, and the mechanisms for oversight and revocation. Provisions often include time limits, reporting requirements, and avenues for judicial review or legislative oversight to ensure accountability and to prevent abuse.

Common elements of erimeetmeid can include restrictions on movement or assembly, limitations on certain activities, temporary reallocations of resources, and the mobilization or coordination of emergency services and civil protection assets. They may also address information management and the prioritization of critical infrastructure to maintain public services.

Limitations and concerns accompany the use of extraordinary measures. Because they alter normal rights and freedoms, safeguards emphasize transparency, proportionality, clear sunset clauses, and regular review to prevent overreach and to protect civil liberties while achieving public safety goals.

See also: state of emergency, emergency management, public health emergency, constitutional safeguards.