Student Kadri Liis Laas: we, the young, must take responsibility for creating our future

Address by Kadri Liis Laas, fourth-year medical student of the University of Tartu, at the concert and ceremony marking the anniversary of the Republic of Estonia on 20 February 2026.

Honoured vice rector for research, deans, mayor, dear guests, award recipients, and the entire university family,

“Is this the kind of Estonia we wanted?”

This question tends to surface in society at the slightest stir of discontent, because Estonians are worriers by nature – we do not even “get ourselves” a car or a house, we use the verb “to worry” for that.

Where does this phrase come from?

This rhetorical question resonated with those who, amid the upheaval of the early 1990s reforms, had to make sacrifices to create an independent state. It continues to resonate with many of us today, as there is still much that causes pain.

For instance, is this the kind of Estonia I wanted, where the problem of childcare places has been “solved” simply because children are no longer being born? Or where half of all practising doctors will reach retirement age within the next ten years, yet despite the university’s readiness to train more young doctors, the state does not find funding for it?

And yet, somehow, we have survived here in this dark, boggy land – our young people shine in PISA tests and later in start-ups, we can hear birdsong when we step outside, and our folk songs carry us through our song celebrations.

So where lies the key? Worrying becomes a strength rather than a weakness for Estonians when we choose to do something about what troubles us. We usually do.

Responsibility is the key. In today’s shifting world order, it is more important than ever. My fellow young people, we must take responsibility for creating our future. “A young dog has sharp teeth,” says an Estonian proverb. One way to do this is by contributing our time to civic organisations, which is also why I stand before you today. I am fighting for the future of medical students and the field of medicine. What are you fighting for?

It is also important to acknowledge that we must deal with the things we can actually influence. In Estonia, the measure of influence might well be the saying that the President is always two phone calls away. Living in a small country is, in this sense, a privilege. In the wider world, it might be the knowledge that with a purple, twelve-starred passport in your pocket, every corner of the world is two flights away. The world is open to us, whereas Ukraine fights every single day for a freedom that is no longer something we can take for granted.

Dear listeners, while young people must take responsibility for shaping our shared future, those older and more experienced can create these opportunities for us. The opportunities to take responsibility. You can help us be angry. Even rebellious. This is where entrepreneurs and alumni can give back to their alma mater and its students. To stand for accessible and high-quality higher education. And later, to create a working environment where young people can apply their talents. To support students who were not born into wealth. Because we need young people who care. Who first worry – and then set things right.

So, what can we do to be able to say at future ceremonies: “Yes! This is the kind of Estonia we wanted”? I believe the key lies in community – a community that takes responsibility and builds its future together. Today, it is especially important to ask: “What is my role and responsibility in the making of this country?” The future of our homeland depends on this very question.

My wish for Estonia, and the university, is that we carry our community with lightness, for as long as there is strength in our shoulders and vigour in our steps. That we help others, and allow ourselves to be helped, building a community to which every world traveller can easily return when a longing for home sets in.

Dear friends, let us celebrate, cherish and carry the freedom of our homeland! Happy Independence Day!