Tallinn City Diplomacy

Tallinn’s international cooperation and representation

Tallinn increasingly acts as a city that thinks and operates internationally. To be better prepared for crises and change, we need strong international partners and cooperation. International engagement helps attract investment, knowledge and talent to Tallinn and supports the city’s economic and social development.

Active participation in international networks and discussions also enables Tallinn to contribute to shaping policies that affect cities in the European Union and beyond. To do so, Tallinn must be visible, active and present where decisions that influence the future of cities are made.

Principles of internationalisation

Tallinn’s international activities are based on three strategic pillars:

City diplomacy
Representing Tallinn’s interests in the European Union and in global city networks.

International place branding
Increasing Tallinn’s visibility and recognition internationally, particularly in the fields of innovation, culture and education.

Competence
Bringing new knowledge and skills into the city administration through international cooperation and strengthening the capacity of city staff.

In international cooperation, we follow a values-based approach built on partnership, support for the city’s strategic objectives, and clear responsibility and coordination. We work closely with national authorities, international organisations, other cities and networks, as well as with the diplomatic corps.

How is our international work organised?

Tallinn’s international cooperation and external relations are coordinated by the City Diplomacy and Communications Department of the Tallinn Strategic Management Office.

International cooperation within the city administration is horizontal in nature – different municipal departments contribute according to their areas of responsibility. Activities are guided by the strategic framework International Tallinn 2035 and are coordinated so that every cooperation format and network membership has a clearly designated responsible unit.

Tallinn works with European Union institutions, international organisations, other cities and networks, as well as embassies and partners operating in Estonia.

Our main areas of activity

Tallinn’s international activities focus on three main areas.

City diplomacy and representation at EU level

Tallinn actively participates in European city networks and policy-making processes, shapes the city’s positions in European Union policies, and cooperates with other capitals and partner cities.

Cooperation with cities and networks

International projects and city-to-city exchange of experience help bring new knowledge and solutions to Tallinn. Cooperation with cities in the Baltic Sea region and development cooperation with Ukrainian cities play an important role.

International representation and relations with partners

Tallinn hosts international delegations, cooperates with the diplomatic corps, and represents the city at international meetings and forums.