Estonia’s national defence is built on reservists, whose readiness to defend the country underpins the security of society as a whole. Maintaining this readiness requires participation in refresher training exercises. Employers play a critical role in enabling reservists to take part in these exercises.
The recognition awarded by the Ministry of Defence highlights organisations that stand out for their strong and consistent support to national defence and to those who serve.
Any legal entity or institution (such as a company, non-profit organisation, or public sector institution) may be nominated by any individual, accompanied by a description of how the nominee supports national defenders and why they deserve recognition.
The primary criterion for awarding the “Supporter of National Defence” label is outstanding support for national defenders, including ensuring the continuity of income for reservists during refresher training. This may include maintaining full salary, providing additional compensation, offering paid leave, or covering the difference between state allowances and regular pay.
Additional contributions are also taken into account, such as offering benefits to national defenders, supporting veterans, or recognising the value of conscription experience in recruitment.
Levels of Recognition
The recognition is awarded at three levels – gold, silver, and bronze – depending on the extent of the contribution and compliance with the established criteria.
Gold Level
Awarded to organisations that demonstrate long-term and exceptional support to Estonia’s national defenders and serve as role models within their sector.
Requirements include:
- meeting the criteria for the Silver level;
- demonstrating leadership within their sector by actively promoting support for reservists among partners, clients, and stakeholders.
Silver Level
Awarded to organisations that demonstrate notable and consistent support to Estonia’s national defenders.
Requirements include:
- meeting the criteria for the Bronze level;
- providing additional support measures, such as benefits for reservists and the Defence Forces, including discounts, equipment rental, transport, or similar contributions.
Bronze Level
Awarded to organisations that support national defenders, particularly by enabling participation in refresher training.
At least one of the following criteria must be met:
- maintaining full salary for employees during refresher training by covering the difference between salary and state allowance;
- continuing to pay full salary during the training period;
- providing additional compensation or paid leave during the training period.
Special Recognition
Based on the decision of the evaluation committee, special recognition awards may also be granted in exceptional cases. These are not standardised and are awarded to organisations or entities that have made particularly outstanding contributions to supporting national defence and reservists.
Last updated: 08.04.2026
