Estonia

Islam in Estonia is a very small minority religion, but it has an established historical presence and enjoys religious freedom under the country’s secular laws.

1. Population & Demographics
Muslims make up less than 0.1% of Estonia’s population — around 1,500 to 3,000 people. The community includes:

  • Tatar Muslims — descendants of immigrants from Russia and the Volga region who settled in Estonia during the 19th and early 20th centuries,
  • A few ethnic Estonian converts,
  • Recent immigrants from the Middle East, Turkey, and other Muslim-majority countries,
  • Some students and workers from Muslim countries.

2. History of Islam in Estonia

  • The earliest Muslims in Estonia were Tatars who migrated from the Russian Empire in the 1800s for trade and military service.
  • During the Soviet period, religious activities, including Islamic practice, were heavily restricted.
  • After Estonia regained independence in 1991, Muslims were able to freely organize religious and cultural activities again.

3. Religious Institutions & Mosques

  • There is no purpose-built mosque in Estonia.
  • The Muslim community uses prayer rooms and cultural centers, primarily in Tallinn (the capital) and Narva.
  • The largest and most active organization is the Estonian Islamic Congregation, representing both Tatars and other Muslim groups.
  • Plans for a proper mosque have been discussed, but so far, none has been constructed.

4. Islam in Public Life

  • Islam is legally recognized, and Muslims have full rights to practice their religion.
  • Halal food is available in some specialty shops in Tallinn.
  • Islamic holidays like Eid al-Fitr and Eid al-Adha are celebrated by the community but are not public holidays in Estonia.
  • Religious education for Muslim children is provided informally by community organizations.

5. Integration & Challenges

  • Estonia is a largely secular country, and most Estonians are not religiously observant, which reduces tension between religious groups.
  • The Muslim community is well integrated and keeps a low profile.
  • Public attitudes towards Muslims are mixed but generally tolerant, with rare instances of Islamophobia.
  • The small size of the community means limited religious infrastructure and representation.

6. Cultural Aspects & Community Life

  • Estonian Muslims, especially Tatars, have maintained some unique culinary and cultural traditions.
  • Occasional interfaith dialogue events are held to promote understanding between Muslims and the largely Christian or secular majority.

Summary:
Islam in Estonia is a tiny but historic and legally protected religion, mainly composed of Tatar descendants and recent Muslim immigrants. The community is small, peaceful, and low-profile, with religious freedom and minimal public conflict.

Estonia
Country Code Top-Level Domain: .ee
Country Code: +372