The Roundtable of National Minorities of the President of the Republic discussed the Cultural Autonomy Act in Kadriorg today. It was admitted that the Cultural Autonomy Act is no longer fulfils the existing needs, and that the National Minorities Act should include more thorough regulations.

Also the need for the working space of the cultural societies was discussed in detail. In this matter, also the Ministry of Culture and the Bureau of the Minister of Population are prepared to come to assistance. As the Roundtable members said, the regional aspect of the problem should not be forgotten.

The Roundtable also discussed the resolution of the Government of the Republic No. 211 from June 29, 1999, to alter the procedures for the registration of the non-profit organisations not subject to income tax. It was pointed out that the resolution hinders the activities of the cultural societies and is in conflict with basic human rights. The Roundtable decided to send a memorandum to the Financial Committee of the Riigikogu.


Press Service of the Office of the President
Kadriorg, September 3, 1999

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