Karis: Relationship between state and local governments reflects societal balance

TALLINN - President Alar Karis said on Tuesday at the general meeting of the Association of Estonian Cities and Municipalities in Tallinn that the relationship between the state and local governments is not merely about money and obligations, but a broader ethical question concerning the functioning of the state and the balance of society.

"The issue is not just about money and obligations. It is a broader ethical question about the functioning of our state and the balance of society, about the role, responsibilities, and opportunities of local government. It is a question of the state's structure and the actual ability of a local government to develop its region and represent its people," said President Karis.

The head of state referred to a thought from a meeting with municipal leaders. "At a recent meeting with municipal leaders, one thought stuck with me: ‘We are tired of being constantly lectured.’ This summarizes a very common concern: our own state's central government does not trust our own local governments," said President Karis.

President Karis spoke of the relationship between the state and local governments as one of fair and respectful cooperation. "This includes respect for both allies and competitors and must be part of a normally functioning democratic system," the head of state noted.

"Each of us has our own concerns and important issues, but for the sake of a better hometown or home municipality, we must be able to look beyond them and assess more broadly what would develop the region as a whole," said President Karis.

According to the head of state, after elections, local governments have both the opportunity and the obligation to fulfill their promises while also conveying their messages to those who will shape national life after the next parliamentary elections. "Be persistent and demanding, so that as many political parties as possible take the issues important to the future of regions beyond Tallinn and Tartu into the elections," said President Karis.

President Karis highlighted that the resolution of issues important to many local governments has been delayed, and the problems have deepened. Among these, he mentioned the condition of roads and infrastructure, the future of public transport, the retention and return of young people, the state of education, the narrow revenue base of municipalities and their increasing responsibilities, the departure of state agencies, and the availability of capital.

President Karis also addressed security and crisis preparedness as an important topic. According to him, in crisis situations, people expect the local government to act together with the state to help reduce uncertainty. "In such crisis situations, people expect the local government, together with the state, to be by their side, managing community crisis information, alleviating uncertainty and fear, and sharing recommendations on how to act correctly. But for this, local governments also need up-to-date information and knowledge. They need the state's support and trust," said the head of state.