Estonian opposition blasts Justice Ministry's new police surveillance bill

Estonia's Justice Ministry has proposed an amendment to the Public Order Act that would give police broad powers to request documents, including audio and video recordings, from private individuals and legal entities. The opposition has responded with sharp criticism of the proposal.

Estonia's Justice Ministry has drafted a controversial amendment to the Public Order Act that would significantly expand police powers to obtain information from both private citizens and organizations. Under the proposal, law enforcement would gain the legal right to request a wide range of materials, including audio and video recordings, from individuals and businesses.

The bill has triggered fierce pushback from opposition parties, who argue the measure goes too far and poses a serious threat to civil liberties and privacy rights. Critics contend that granting police such broad documentary powers without adequate judicial oversight could open the door to abuse and undermine the rule of law.

Opposition lawmakers have questioned whether the proposed changes are proportionate or even necessary, suggesting that existing legal tools already provide sufficient means for police to conduct investigations. They have called on the government to reconsider the scope of the amendment and engage in broader public debate before advancing the legislation.

The Justice Ministry has not yet publicly detailed the specific safeguards or limitations that would accompany the expanded powers, leaving critics concerned about how the provisions would be applied in practice. The proposal is expected to face a contentious parliamentary debate as it moves through the legislative process in the Riigikogu.