On 18 February 2026, the Johan Skytte Institute of Political Studies hosted a delegation from ESPOL – the European School of Political and Social Sciences at Lille Catholic University – for a full‑day study visit in Tartu. The programme introduced the guests to Estonia’s digital governance model, cyber security practices, and the political environment that has enabled the country’s digital transformation.
The visit began with a welcome by Associate Professor Martin Mölder, Programme Director for Politics and Governance in the Digital Age, who outlined Estonia’s long-term digital development and the political choices behind it. This was followed by a session led by Associate Professor Mihkel Solvak, who presented the structure and functioning of Estonia’s digital public services, emphasising the importance of interoperability, citizen trust, and policy continuity.
Later in the day, Associate Professor Stefano Braghiroli joined the group via Teams to discuss small state diplomacy in the digital age, highlighting how Estonia leverages digital tools and strategic communication in its foreign policy. After lunch at Pierre Café and a short walk through Tartu’s historic centre, the delegation returned for an afternoon session with Logan Carmichael, junior researcher and PhD candidate, who introduced Estonia’s cyber security management model and the role of research and education in strengthening national resilience.
The programme concluded with reflections by Martin Mölder, who engaged the group in a discussion on the Estonian political system and the foundations of public trust in digital tools such as e‑voting.
The Johan Skytte Institute extends its warm thanks to Felix von Nostitz, Associate Professor of Political Science at ESPOL, for supporting this visit and fostering collaboration, as well as to the ESPOL students for their active participation and thoughtful engagement throughout the day. The institute is pleased to see the continued cooperation between ESPOL and the Skytte Institute, especially in the field of e‑governance, where ongoing exchange continues to enrich both institutions.
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