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Estonian EU external border programme


1.12.2020

During the first year of the project ER19 “From Family to Society” families from Narva and Pskov met in Estonia to participate in the common learning. It was the first international meeting of the families and both parents and kids were trying to learn about each other as much as possible and build common bridges

While parents were working with psychologist on such a serious subject as conflict solving, kids were preparing festive celebration and even small concert. 

The most memorable was a musical performance of kids. It was great as even kids who are 2 and 3 years old were involved in it. They were playing simple musical instruments such as spoons and glasses. 

The day was full of learning for everyone. Parents mentioned that it was really touching and inspiring. 


Russian researchers conducted a sampling expedition to characterize marine life distribution of previously unexplored areas. Much to their surprise they discovered two alien species – Atlantic rangia, a mollusc from the Gulf of Mexico and Laonome xeprovala, a worm of unknown origin.  

For two years Estonian, Russian and Finnish researchers have worked together within ER55 “ADRIENNE” project to acquire more knowledge about the Gulf of Finland. Their findings confirm that the two species previously found from other parts of the Baltic Sea have now populated the easternmost region of the sea. The future research will show whether presence of these newcomers bring benefit or disturb the local marine life.

The researchers are now developing a sophisticated computerized tool that integrates the distribution of life forms and the Baltic Sea environment. This tool can then be used to study the health of the Baltic Sea ecosystem. More information: http://adrienne.ut.ee.


Do you know how many islands there are in Lake Peipsi/Chudskoe and which of these islands welcomed first old believers (starovery) who escaped from religious persecutions in Russia? 

You can find answers from online Peipsi Quiz, elaborated by ER8 “CuNaHe” project, and learn that Lake Peipsi/Chudskoe has as much as 29 islands and the Russian old believers were settled in the Estonian island Piirissaare  already late 17th century. 

To learn this high number of the Lake Peipsi islands and that Piirissaare is not the largest island but Kolpina, was one of the main astonishments for the visitors of Lake Peipsi festival workshops in Mustvee and Räpina, in July 2020.

Lake Peipsi Chudskoe Quiz is available in Estonian and Russian language at: https://quiz.peipsi.org


Covid-19 pandemic and closure of Estonian-Russian border didn’t significantly affect cooperation between ER4 “River Promenades III” project partners, who adapted to the new circumstances.

Round tables were organized with entrepreneurs dedicated to business development on the territory of Narva and Ivangorod promenades. A total 42 participants of Narva and Ivangorod business sector discussed via video conference and prioritized problems and opportunities for business development on the border territories.

Some bright ideas were found, which would serve to spur tourism development in the border area.  For example, the construction of funicular above the river and the promenades, free of charge guided tours in border area which keep tourists to stay at least one night in Narva or Ivangorod, organization of light festival of parking lot for campers.