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Equality Commissioner’s Annual Conference “What Color Is Equality?” Sparks Discussions on Racism

Equality Commissioner’s Annual Conference “What Color Is Equality?” Sparks Discussions on Racism.

On December 10, the Gender Equality and Equal Treatment Commissioner’s Office will host its annual “What Color Is Equality?” conference at Tallinn’s Kultuurikatel. For the first time, the conference will focus on discrimination based on skin colour, highlighting personal stories from people in Estonia.

The conference will present a new report revealing fresh data on racial discrimination in Estonia. “Estonia is generally considered a safe living environment, but survey results show many respondents have experienced inappropriate behaviour in public spaces and workplaces. Often, perceived discrimination occurs in seemingly everyday situations — opinions are ignored, conversations are interrupted, or employees are excluded from important discussions,” said Equality Commissioner Christian Veske. “Racism is not just about isolated incidents — it is a systemic issue that requires concrete steps from both the government and employers,” Veske emphasised, adding that the leading cause of discrimination often stems from ignorance and a lack of interaction with diverse nationalities and cultures.

In addition to unveiling the report, the conference will feature discussions led by prominent international and Estonian experts, such as Michaela Moua, European Commission’s Coordinator on Anti-Racism; Nourhene Mahmoudi, representative of the European Network Against Racism (ENAR); Dr. Faith Mkwesha from the University of Helsinki (CEREN); and Estonian ministers Kristina Kallas (Education and Research), Liisa-Ly Pakosta (Justice and Digital Affairs), Riina Sikkut (Health), and Signe Riisalo (Social Protection).

The day will also include engaging panel discussions featuring Daniel Ita (Estonian African Students Association), Linda Kaljundi (Estonian Academy of Arts), Kelly Grossthal (Estonian Human Rights Centre), Martin Laine (Delfi Media), Egert Belitšev (Estonian Police and Border Guard Board), and other experts. Musicians Sissi Nylia Benita and Dave Benton will share their personal experiences and challenges. Actress and TV host Sandra Ashilevi will moderate the event.

“Discrimination based on skin colour is a painful part of daily life for many. With this conference, we aim to open up the discussion, provide solutions, and call for greater social cohesion,” said Veske.

The event is open to anyone interested in promoting equality and reducing racism in Estonia. Pre-registration is required. For more information about the event and speakers, visit https://www.volinik.ee/en/node/1528.html. The entire special report will be published on December 10.

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