Estonian Museum Association: museum workers' salaries must reach national average level

A wage survey conducted by the Estonian Museum Association in early 2026 shows that museum workers' compensation does not match the responsibility of their work or the required qualification level. The association demands that the minimum wage for cultural workers be raised to at least 90 per cent of the national average, and that the average salary of museum workers reach the national average.

The Estonian Museum Association released the results of a wage survey in early 2026, confirming that museum workers' salaries do not correspond to the responsibility of their work, the required qualification level, or the sector's social role. Although the minimum wage for cultural workers rose to 1,720 euros gross in 2026, this does not apply to all museum workers and does not solve the problem.

Salary does not reflect the value of work

"A museum worker is a highly qualified specialist in the cultural field who is responsible for preserving, researching, interpreting, and promoting Estonia's cultural heritage. The value of such work must be reflected in the salary," said Anu Viltrop, executive director of the Estonian Museum Association.

According to the association, the wage issue is one of the key problems for the sustainability of the museum sector. Museums are expected to provide educational activities, work with communities, provide science-based interpretation, develop digital solutions, ensure accessibility, engage in international cooperation, and participate in public debates. Yet in many positions, wages do not match these expectations.

Sense of mission does not replace salary

"Estonian museums are visible, trusted and beloved by visitors. We have a strong museum network and professional employees, thanks to whom museums are able to offer quality educational activities, preserve heritage and receive international attention. However, this cannot be done indefinitely at the expense of a sense of mission," emphasised Merili Mariehagen, chair of the Museum Association's board.

A previous wage satisfaction survey conducted last year showed that low compensation directly affects employee satisfaction, motivation and the desire to stay in the sector. People are kept in museums by a sense of mission and dedication, but financial insecurity, limited career opportunities and increasing workload create ever-greater pressure.

The association's demands on the state

The Estonian Museum Association demands that the minimum wage for cultural workers in positions requiring higher education be raised to at least 90 per cent of the national average salary, and that the average salary of museum workers reach the national average salary. In addition, wage policy should take into account the different forms of ownership of museums, regional differences and the actual complexity of museum work.

"The responsibility of museum work has grown over time, but salaries have not kept pace. If we want museums to offer attractive content, reach different target groups and be visible in society, we need to keep the people who do this work every day," Viltrop added.