The first female President of Estonia, serving from 2016 to 2021, known for her strong advocacy for climate action, digitalization, and e-government. She has been a vocal critic of authoritarianism and a champion of liberal democracy.
Kersti Kaljulaid is a renowned Estonian politician who made history by becoming the first and only female President of Estonia, serving from 2016 to 2021. At the age of 46, she was not only the first woman to hold the office but also the youngest president in Estonia's history since its declaration of independence in 1918.
Kaljulaid was born on December 30, 1969. She developed an interest in ornithology during her studies at Tallinn Secondary School no. 44, where she was an active member of the Students Scientific Association. In 1992, she graduated cum laude as a biologist from the University of Tartu. She is a member of the Estonian female student corporation, Filiae Patriae.
In 2001, Kaljulaid earned an MBA in business management from the University of Tartu, with her thesis titled "The Improvement of the Management System of State-Founded Foundations."
Kaljulaid's career spans across various industries, including business and politics. Some notable milestones include:
In 2016, Kaljulaid entered the presidential election race as a joint candidate supported by the majority of parliamentary parties. She won the election with 81 votes and 17 abstentions, becoming the first female President of Estonia.
During her presidency, Kaljulaid focused on issues such as climate change, digitalization, and European integration. She also worked to strengthen Estonia's relationships with other European countries and NATO allies.
Kaljulaid's presidency was marked by her commitment to promoting gender equality, education, and innovation. She has been a strong advocate for increasing women's participation in politics and has worked to reduce the gender gap in Estonia.
Kaljulaid has received several awards and honors for her contributions to politics and society, including:
Kaljulaid is married and has four children. She is an avid cyclist and enjoys spending time outdoors.
Kersti Kaljulaid's remarkable journey and accomplishments have inspired countless individuals, particularly women, to pursue careers in politics and public service. Her legacy continues to shape Estonia's future and her impact on modern society will be felt for generations to come.
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Estonian geographer and politician who served as the 10th Prime Minister of Estonia, known for his role in the country's transition to independence from Soviet rule. He's also a prominent environmentalist and advocate for sustainable development.
