At the annual HR event EHRS Summit, the HR Awards were announced for the third time – the President Kaljulaid Foundation and the initiative Employers Against Domestic Abuse were selected as the winners in the HR Friend of the Year category.
&#8220;We are truly grateful as a team that our efforts have been recognised and we are considered important partners among HR enthusiasts. Our goal is to create domestic abuse-aware workplaces together with employers, and the support and continuous encouragement from HR teams are invaluable. This award belongs to everyone who has believed in us and supported us in one way or another on this journey,&#8221; says Triin Adamson, Head of the Initiative.
On February 18, at the EHRS Summit organised by the Estonian HR Society, the winners of the HR Awards were announced in five categories: HR Team, HR Initiative, HR Volunteer, HR Solution, and HR Friend. A total of 155 nominations were submitted in January for these five categories. The leadership group of the Estonian HR Society selected five finalists in each category. The winners were determined by the HR community, who had the opportunity to vote until February 11 – a total of 891 people participated in the voting!
The winners in other categories were:
HR Initiative: Väike Päike – Health Journey 
HR Team: Rademar HR Team 
HR Volunteer: Gerly Roosmets 
HR Solution: Persona
&#8220;The HR Awards are a great opportunity to highlight the contribution of the HR field to organizations and society at large. This recognition not only values the contributors but also inspires others and supports the well-being of Estonian organizations. The consistently high number of nominations and an exceptionally large number of voters confirm that the HR field is visible, influential, and increasingly valued. It is a joy to see how the HR community supports and encourages each other,&#8221; says Helo Tamme, founding member and president of the Estonian HR Society.

President Kaljulaid Foundation Honored with the HR Friend of the Year Award

Today, President Kaljulaid’s Fund and Estonian employers jointly launched the Employers Against Domestic Abuse initiative, which aims to help reduce domestic abuse. Among the first key members of the initiative are Enefit, Betsson Group, SOL Baltics, and Ensto Estonia. Regular members include IKEA, Bolt, Nordea, Lidl Estonia, and Swedbank.
“In Estonia, nearly 700,000 people are employed, including both perpetrators and victims of domestic abuse. Given that 41% of women and 33% of men in Estonia have experienced abuse in a relationship at least once in their lifetime, it is safe to say that employers encounter individuals affected by abuse daily—whether as victims, witnesses, or perpetrators,” said Head of the Initiative, Triin Adamson.
She pointed out that while domestic abuse primarily occurs outside the workplace, it also impacts employee well-being, colleagues, and the overall work environment.
“Domestic abuse in intimate relationships causes serious emotional, psychological, and physical trauma, as it is often inflicted by the person who seems to care for us the most. Research shows that domestic abuse has, in addition to its direct individual impact, a significant effect on work life. For example, Vodafone’s internal research revealed that 75% of employees who experienced domestic abuse reported that it negatively affected their performance and career progression,” Adamson added.
To raise awareness and create domestic abuse-aware workplaces, the Employers Against Domestic Abuse initiative provides training, tools, educational materials, and networking opportunities for sharing experiences and ideas. The initiative has also published a handbook to guide employers in addressing domestic abuse effectively.
“Too many cases of domestic abuse in Estonia go unnoticed, leaving victims without the support they need. That’s why it is crucial for bystanders, including employers, to understand the nature of abuse, recognise warning signs, and direct victims to the help they need. Employees spend nearly half their waking hours in the workplace or working remotely, which provides ample time to observe changes in behaviour and workplace dynamics,” said President Kersti Kaljulaid. “With this initiative, we are offering hope to victims and a toolbox for employers to recognise concerns and offer support. Employers may often be the first to notice problems and provide support,” she added.
The initiative was officially launched at Estonia’s largest conference on domestic abuse, Stronger Together, where representatives from the first key members discussed the role of employers in preventing abuse. This year’s conference focused on creating an ethical and trauma-informed information space. The discussion addressed the influence of media (journalism and social media) both in normalising abuse and challenging these norms. Speakers included Martin Šmutov, Mihkel Kärmas, Urmas Viilma, and others.
Watch the conference recording here: <a href="https://epl.delfi.ee/artikkel/120340450/otse-aasta-suurim-lahisuhtevagivalla-konverents-koos-tugevamad">https://epl.delfi.ee/artikkel/120340450/otse-aasta-suurim-lahisuhtevagivalla-konverents-koos-tugevamad</a>

Employers Against Domestic Abuse Initiative Launched

The general assembly of the Estonian Olympic Committee elected Kersti Kaljulaid as president of the organization. 
The vote took place at the 50th plenary session at Tallinn Hilton Park Hotel on the 11th of October.
Kaljulaid, who served as the fifth president of Estonia between 2016 and 2021, got 62 votes in Friday&#8217;s second-round run-off against former NOC president Urmas Sõõrumaa. Kaljulaid polled 62 votes to Sõõrumaa&#8217;s 57.
Kaljulaid named 2008 Olympic Champion Gerd Kanter and sports development chief Tiit Pekk as vice presidents.
The new executive board also includes: Mihkel Mardna, Tõnu Tõniste, Marti Hääl, Erki Nool, Raivo Rand, Assar Jõepera, Kristjan Koll, Natalja Inno, Anne Rei, Mart Tarmak, Kristjan Port, Martin Thomson, Leho Haldna, Mihhail Kõlvart, and ex officio chair of NOC athletes commission, rowing Olympic bronze Allar Raja.
Photo: Karli Saul/EOK

Kersti Kaljulaid elected next Estonian Olympic Committee president

“Too many cases of domestic abuse in Estonia go unnoticed, leaving victims without the support they need. That’s why it is crucial for bystanders, including employers, to understand the nature of abuse and know how to direct victims to the help they need,” said President Kersti Kaljulaid. “With this initiative, we are offering hope to victims and a toolbox for employers to recognise concerns and offer support. Employers may often be the first to notice problems and provide support,” she added.
“Domestic abuse can affect any of us—regardless of income, location, education, or gender. For many employees, the workplace and their manager may be the only place where they feel safe. A good leader notices changes in their team members&#8217; behavior and emotional state,” said Rinel Pius, Chairman of the Board of SOL Baltics, which employs over 2,000 people.
Pius emphasized that employers have greater power and influence than individuals and a social responsibility towards their employees. “Through raising awareness, we can potentially impact more than 5,000 lives, including victims, perpetrators, and children who may carry these patterns forward. A responsible and caring employer can play a key role in preventing domestic abuse, and this initiative gives us the tools to do so,” he explained.
Kadi Piikov, Chief of Employee Experience at Eesti Energia, highlighted the role of employers in ensuring employee well-being and the importance of preventing domestic abuse for their organisation. “We joined the initiative because it reflects our values. One of our core principles is &#8216;Care (for people),&#8217; which means we cannot stand by when people around us need help and support. Through our employees, we can positively influence a large cross-section of society. Together, we can create a healthier and safer society,” said Piikov.
Ensto Estonia CEO, Kristy Valgma, also highlighted the role of organisational values and the desire to contribute to creating a better society in joining the initiative. “Our organization is ready to take steps towards a society free from violence because our values—trust, creativity, and winning together—support this vision,” said Valgma.
“As a sustainable company, Betsson is committed to creating a positive impact in the communities where we operate. We are honoured to work with this initiative to help reduce domestic abuse. This serious social issue affects both individuals and communities. We want to raise awareness and create a safe workplace where people feel encouraged to seek help and receive support. Together, we can create positive change that benefits individuals, employers, and society as a whole,” said Jaarika Nurmsalu, HR Manager for the Baltics at Betsson Group.
The initiative, along with its initial services, will be made available to employers in December. Organisations interested in learning more about the topic are already welcome to contact the President Kaljulaid Foundation.

Cornerstone Laid for Employers Against Domestic Abuse Initiative

<h2>Employers Can Play a Key Role in Reducing Intimate Partner Violence in Estonia</h2>
The President Kaljulaid Foundation is establishing a Competence Center for the Prevention of Intimate Partner Violence, aimed at empowering employers to help reduce the impact of this violence on Estonian society. For many victims, the workplace may be the only safe environment where they can seek help.
“The President Kaljulaid Foundation is continually seeking innovative ways to contribute to a violence-free society in Estonia. Involving employers in the prevention of intimate partner violence is one such approach, as the workplace often serves as the only refuge for victims,” said Triin Adamson, Project Manager at the President Kaljulaid Foundation.
According to Statistics Estonia, 41% of women and 33% of men have experienced violence in a relationship at least once in their lives. But how exactly are employers connected to violence that typically occurs outside the work environment?
Intimate Partner Violence Affects Both Employees and Organizations 

“Approximately 700,000 people are employed in Estonia. Given these statistics, it is inevitable that employers will encounter issues related to intimate partner violence. Every day, victims of domestic violence—whether mental, physical, sexual, or economic—along with their abusers, come to work. Often, these cases go unnoticed, or if they are noticed, there is no intervention,” Adamson explained.
Research indicates that intimate partner violence directly impacts a victim&#8217;s ability to work, as well as the dynamics of teams and the overall performance of organizations. “Victims may experience low mood, heightened anxiety, sleep disturbances, exhaustion, withdrawal, and other issues as a result of the violence. This, in turn, leads to reduced motivation, decreased work engagement, lower creativity, and a decline in work quality. Such impacts can quietly erode workplace relationships, team dynamics, customer interactions, and overall organizational outcomes. It is estimated that intimate partner violence costs the Estonian economy 1.1 billion euros annually—equivalent to the budget of the city of Tallinn,” Adamson elaborated.
The Competence Center Will Provide Essential Tools for Employers
A Kantar Emor survey conducted last autumn revealed that 58% of the population considers it important for employers to support victims of intimate partner violence. A recent survey by the Estonian HR Society found that 73% of HR managers share this view. This suggests that employers could play a crucial role in preventing and addressing intimate partner violence, thereby contributing to a healthier and safer society.
“We sense a willingness among Estonian employers to contribute, but there is often a lack of experience and expertise. That is why we are establishing a Competence Center for the Prevention of Intimate Partner Violence, specifically aimed at employers. This center will serve as a resource for those employers who wish to systematically address domestic violence in the workplace. Our goal is to equip employers with the support, knowledge, skills, and tools necessary to tackle this complex issue effectively,” said Adamson. The toolbox being developed for employers will include various educational opportunities, statistics, research, training materials, and other informational resources.
“A key component of the Competence Center is the network of employers we are building, which will enable us to learn from each other and draw inspiration from shared initiatives. We invite all interested employers to subscribe to our newsletter and stay updated on our activities,” Adamson urged, adding that the Competence Center is expected to launch its first services in December of this year.
If this topic resonates with you, join the President Kaljulaid Foundation&#8217;s newsletter for employers (in Estonian): <a href="https://mailchi.mp/kerstikaljulaid/kompetentsikeskuse-uudiskiri">https://mailchi.mp/kerstikaljulaid/kompetentsikeskuse-uudiskiri</a>

PKF creates a competence center for the prevention of intimate partner violence aimed at employers

Kersti Kaljulaid, former President of Estonia, will join GLOBSEC&#8217;s Board of Directors. Ms. Kaljulaid&#8217;s appointment marks a significant addition to GLOBSEC&#8217;s leadership, bringing her extensive experience in international relations, economic development, and governance to the forefront of the organization’s mission. This strategic move also strengthens GLOBSEC&#8217;s position in the Baltics, reinforcing its influence and reach in the region.
&#8220;GLOBEC is an organisation with a fantastic ambition to develop transatlantic dialogue and discussions over security and also economic development, contributing with ideas from the CEE region. I&#8217;m proud to be part of it!&#8221; said president Kaljulaid.
&#8220;Kersti Kaljulaid&#8217;s commitment to fostering global cooperation and her forward-thinking approach align perfectly with GLOBSEC&#8217;s mission to enhance security, prosperity, and sustainability. We are confident that her guidance will significantly strengthen our impact on the global stage. Her experience and visionary leadership will be invaluable as we continue to shape international dialogue and advance our strategic objectives as a voice of CEE in the transatlantic space,&#8221; commented Róbert Vass, President and Founder of GLOBSEC.

Kersti Kaljulaid Joins GLOBSEC’s Board of Directors

The Democracy Academy of the President Kaljulaid Foundation concluded this year, graduating 25 young people.
Over six months, the young participants met with President of the Republic Alar Karis, members of the Riigikogu, parliamentary parties, journalists from Estonian National Broadcasting, Õhtuleht and Delfi, representatives from Milton New Nordics and SpeakSmart, NGO Democracy Training, mayors Urmas Klaas and Jevgeni Ossinovski, and many others.
Thank you to Sorainen Estonia and the European Commission&#8217;s representation in Estonia! And, of course, to the foundation’s own Gea Kangilaski, who led the project.
It seemed that the 25 graduates were genuinely inspired – and many also made new friends with whom they could discuss and debate. We will certainly hear more from these graduates of the Democracy Academy in the future, possibly not very far in the future.
Thank you to everyone who helped organize and fund the program, inspire the young participants, and attended!
The Democracy Academy of the President Kaljulaid Foundation is an inspiring journey that spans the second half of the school year, aimed at young people who wish to actively engage in societal affairs now and in the future. It offers both management and leadership training, an insight into the workings of our country and society, as well as collaborative activities and co-creation on topics that resonate most with young people.

The first class of the Democracy Academy has graduated

Meet More of Our Team!
The President Kaljulaid Foundation is continuously seeking innovative ways to contribute to the creation of a violence-free society in Estonia. As part of this effort, we are establishing a competence center that will provide employers with the resources to prevent and reduce intimate partner violence (IPV).
Research indicates that intimate partner violence directly affects organizations and work teams, even though the violence itself usually occurs outside the workplace. IPV impacts employee motivation, performance, creativity, and commitment, all of which can influence team dynamics and organizational outcomes. Specifically, the well-being of an organization and its results can be compromised if its members are suffering from intimate partner violence. Moreover, the work environment may often be the only safe and supportive space for victims, offering them the help they need to escape the cycle of violence.
To spearhead the launch of this competence center, we are pleased to welcome Triin Adamson. Triin brings extensive experience in communication and project management, having spent the last 10 years directing communications for companies and organizations across various sectors. Additionally, she has worked as a freelance journalist and served as a project manager in Spain, Portugal, and Belgium. Her projects against IPV have earned prestigious awards.
“The impact of violence on a person’s well-being and work ability is severe. I’ve experienced this firsthand, though fortunately for a short time. This is why I believe employers must pay attention to this issue, raise awareness within their teams, and provide support to those affected. I sincerely believe that this will be of tremendous benefit,” said Triin.

Triin Adamson Joins the Fund as Project Manager for the Intimate Partner Violence Initiative

The President Kaljulaid Foundation&#8217;s initiative against intimate partner violence is rapidly gaining momentum!
The Foundation’s primary focus is on harnessing the untapped potential of employers and the private sector in Estonia. With over 700,000 people employed in Estonia, many of whom may either be perpetrators or victims of intimate partner violence, there is a significant opportunity for employers to play a crucial role in prevention, detection, and support. Unfortunately, this potential is not yet fully realized in Estonia. However, there are successful international examples that can be adapted and implemented locally—this is the current focus of the Foundation.
Recently, Helina Loor joined the Foundation as the initiative&#8217;s learning designer. In this role, she contributes to the development of the journey and materials for employers who join the initiative. Helina brings nearly 20 years of experience in people development, having worked with the Women&#8217;s Support Center service of the Social Insurance Board&#8217;s Victim Support unit and as a training partner in victim assistance. She is the creator of the latest e-courses for victim support, covering topics such as resolving cases of intimate partner violence, victim support services, and restorative justice.
Helina has exceptional organizational and project management skills and is an active volunteer. Over the past 20 years, she has organized numerous international and domestic projects, events, and training sessions. Her notable achievements include serving as the main organizer of the 2008 European Debating Championships in Tallinn, project manager for the NO99 Põhuteater project in 2011, a key member of the organizing team for the European Film Awards Gala in Tallinn in 2010, and the chief organizer of the final gala of the European Debating Championships in Tallinn in 2017. Additionally, Helina has built and led the social training company SpeakSmart, through which nearly 2,500 people annually have enhanced their professional argumentation skills.
She is a member of the Estonian Debate Society, the Estonian Andragogists&#8217; Union, and the Union of Training Companies.
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Helina Loor Joins the Foundation as Learning Designer for the Intimate Partner Violence Initiative

The President Kaljulaid Foundation won the Pronksmuna at the prestigious Golden Egg marketing communication competition. 
&#8220;The winter campaign against intimate partner violence of the President Kaljulaid Foundation and Optimist Public+Optimist LIVE was something that needed to be done in any case,&#8221; said President Kersti Kaljulaid.
As a result of this and all other efforts, Estonian society has reached the point where the vast majority of people can recognize intimate partner violence and know where to ask for help. Next, an effort is needed so that this help is really asked for more.
Thank you to the Estonian Marketing Association!

President Kaljulaid Foundation Honored with the HR Friend of the Year Award

Employers Against Domestic Abuse Initiative Launched

Kersti Kaljulaid elected next Estonian Olympic Committee president

Cornerstone Laid for Employers Against Domestic Abuse Initiative

PKF creates a competence center for the prevention of intimate partner violence aimed at employers

Kersti Kaljulaid Joins GLOBSEC’s Board of Directors

The first class of the Democracy Academy has graduated

Triin Adamson Joins the Fund as Project Manager for the Intimate Partner Violence Initiative

Helina Loor Joins the Foundation as Learning Designer for the Intimate Partner Violence Initiative

President Kaljulaid Foundation receives prestigious Bronze Egg award

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