Summary

The article gives an overview of the situation of policy analysis in Estonia in the context of the societies in transition of Central and East Europe. A review is provided of “think tanks” as an opportunity to shape the legal policy based on the innovative and quality policy analysis and research, considering different policy alternatives and assessing their possible social and economic impact.
The connection between policy analysis and think tanks with legal policy development in Estonia is a remarkable topic, especially in a situation where experience concerning think tanks generally exists but their role in shaping the legal policy has so far been only marginal. The setting up of such kind of centres will result in the shaping and development of a network of experts who are capable of launching and handling projects on a professional level. The involvement of foreign partners allows comparison studies and the exchange of experience. If the position of the opinion-former is achieved through a politically neutral position and quality analysis, its influence on small countries may be greater than is currently believed. In Estonia, the centres would begin to create a tradition of strategic planning, and initiate a culture that is more effective and better reasoned in decision-making.