Maris Lauri

Maris Lauri, Member of the Parliament of Estonia: “My aim as WPL ambassador in Estonia is to encourage women to take a more active role in public life as decision-makers and leading experts. I would like to change the biased view that there are areas “for women”, and would like to increase women’s involvement in shaping the policies in business, economy, security, science, local governance, etc. The burden of the fight against Covid-19 has been especially heavy for the working women, and the economic consequences of the pandemic have affected them harshly, hence I see the need to pay special attention to the post-COVID policies and their impact on the women’s life.”

Bio: 

Maris Lauri is a member of the Riigikogu and a dedicated representative of the Estonian Reform Party. She has held significant ministerial roles, including Minister of Justice from 2021 to 2022, Minister of Finance from 2014 to 2015, and Minister of Education and Research in 2016. Lauri has also served as an economic adviser to the Prime Minister in 2014. Her political career includes being a member of the 13th and 14th Riigikogu, where she was the Deputy Chairman of the faction and Finance Committee, respectively. She is currently a member of the 15th Riigikogu, a member of the Finance Committee and Chair of the Security Authorities Surveillance Select Committee.  Maris Lauri graduated from the University of Tartu with a degree in economic cybernetics in 1989 and earned a master’s degree in economics from the same university in 1994. She has a rich professional background, having worked as a senior accountant, specialist, and economic analyst in various esteemed organizations, including the Estonian Academy of Sciences, Eesti Pank, and Hansapank/Swedbank. In addition to her political and professional achievements, Lauri is actively involved in academic and public spheres, contributing to higher education, publishing articles, and co-authoring a social studies textbook. She is also a member of several organizations and has been recognized with the Order of the White Star, 5th Class in 2008. Her interests include history and genealogy, reflecting her multifaceted engagement with both her professional and personal passions.