The Tallinn City Government approved a regulation today to raise the minimum salaries of youth workers in the city’s youth centers and youth work institutions, effective January 1, 2025.
Deputy Mayor Aleksei Jašin explained that the salary increase aims to retain qualified specialists and improve service quality. “Youth work is not limited to providing leisure activities; it shapes values, develops social skills, and supports personal growth. Alongside traditional school education, youth work needs greater recognition and support as it contributes to better learning outcomes for young people,” Jašin noted. “The differentiated salary increase primarily targets higher-qualified workers to motivate youth workers to obtain certifications and ensure high-quality services,” he added.
Tallinn operates 10 youth centers employing 39 youth workers and 5 managers. Most staff members hold higher education in youth work or a Level 6 or 7 qualification.
Starting January 1, 2025, the minimum salary for youth workers with higher education in youth work or a Level 6 or 7 qualification will be €1,650. For those with other higher education or a Level 5 qualification, the minimum salary will be €1,500. Youth workers with secondary education will retain the current minimum salary of €1,320. The minimum salary for managers of youth centers and youth work institutions will be €1,870.
Funds for the salary increases are included in Tallinn’s 2025 budget, with an estimated total annual cost of €76,836. The regulation approved by the Tallinn City Government today will come into effect on January 1, 2025.
Youth work focuses on non-formal education and creating open and inclusive environments. The primary role of youth workers is to offer children and young people aged 7–26 diverse opportunities to participate in activities, projects, and camps designed for leisure and personal development, fostering their engagement and integration into society. All youth center services remain free of charge for young people.
Source: tallinn.ee