julgeolek

Julgeolek is the term used to describe the set of policies, strategies, and actions aimed at safeguarding a state's independence, sovereignty, constitutional order, and territorial integrity from a wide range of threats. It encompasses not only traditional military defense but also political, economic, cyber, social, and informational security.

Threats to julgeolek can originate from external actors, such as armed aggression or coercive pressure, as well as from non-state actors, including cyberattacks, disinformation campaigns, terrorism, organized crime, and disruptions to critical infrastructure. Environmental risks, pandemics, and economic crises can also affect national security. National security policy seeks to reduce vulnerabilities, deter aggression, and build resilience through preparedness, defense planning, and crisis management.

Governance of julgeolek typically involves an inter-ministerial coordination framework, supported by defence, intelligence, border, and law enforcement agencies, along with civil protection and critical infrastructure authorities. Parliament, the government, and independent bodies provide oversight, while international cooperation—especially with allied organizations—plays a central role in deterrence and information sharing.

In Estonia, julgeolek is closely linked to participation in NATO and the European Union. The country emphasizes cyber security and the resilience of digital infrastructure, reflecting its advanced digital society. Estonia hosts the NATO Cooperative Cyber Defence Centre of Excellence in Tallinn and maintains integrated cyber defense and emergency response capabilities alongside conventional defense.

Because threats evolve with technology, julgeolek policy is dynamic, addressing emerging domains such as cyber, space, and information operations, while promoting public awareness and civil protection as components of national resilience.