Estonia Taps Media Veteran to Lead National Crisis Communications
Journalist Henrik Roonemaa will assume the role of Deputy Director of Estonia's Government Communications Bureau on February 2, tasked with coordinating strategic and risk messaging to bolster public confidence amid a tense security environment.
- —Henrik Roonemaa will assume the role of Deputy Director of the Government Communications Bureau starting February 2, 2026.
- —Roonemaa's responsibilities will include coordinating strategic, crisis, and risk communication plans to enhance public confidence and security.
- —Government Secretary Keit Kasemets highlighted Roonemaa's extensive experience in the private sector and media, emphasizing his strategic vision for clear and reliable communication amidst security challenges.
- —Roonemaa, a journalist with a background in digital and new media formats, previously worked on a temporary contract to address public anxiety related to the security situation.
- —Liis Velsker is also set to join as deputy director in April, returning from parental leave.
Recap
This appointment is a calculated move to harden Estonia's societal resilience against information warfare and geopolitical pressure. By installing a media professional focused on crisis messaging, the government is operationalizing public trust as a component of national security, aiming to control the domestic narrative before external actors can disrupt it.