Estonia's reliance on foreign seasonal workers for agriculture is a complex issue, with a multitude of factors influencing the labor market. This year, the number of foreign workers has decreased noticeably, with 2,396 arrivals so far, a decline from recent years. The main destinations for these workers are agricultural jobs, particularly in berry picking, which is a short-term, seasonal work arrangement. The Police and Border Guard Board (PPA) reports that most workers come from Ukraine, Moldova, Uzbekistan, India, and Georgia, with a notable fluctuation in recruitment from India and Georgia. This pattern repeats annually, with applications rising in March and falling in autumn, indicating a strong connection to seasonal work.
The decline in foreign workers can be attributed to various factors. Firstly, the war in Ukraine has disrupted labor availability, with additional security checks and the requirement for difficult-to-obtain documents, such as school diplomas, causing delays. Bureaucracy and restrictions also play a significant role, as do transport issues and visa rule changes. The PPA's increased scrutiny of workers' backgrounds has led to a more streamlined process, but the impact on labor availability remains a concern.
Raimond Strastin, head of the Estonian Horticultural Association, highlights the challenges faced by berry growers. The industry relies on seasonal labor from Ukraine and Moldova, with workers often coming through personal connections. However, the turnover rate is high, with workers moving around due to better pay in Central Europe or health issues. This makes it difficult for growers to find consistent workers, especially during the short berry-picking window, where delays can result in significant losses.
The berry-picking season is characterized by irregular hours, which do not align with the daily rhythm of Estonians. The industry is also facing a shortage of local seasonal workers, with many preferring leisure activities over hard work in the fields. This further exacerbates the reliance on foreign labor, as farmers struggle to find local help.
Despite the challenges, the Estonian agricultural sector continues to adapt. The industry is exploring new methods to attract local workers, but the short-term nature of seasonal work remains a significant obstacle. The future of foreign labor in Estonian agriculture is uncertain, with the potential for further disruptions due to global events and changing labor dynamics.
