In Estonia, there is a proposal to restrict name changes for those convicted of serious crimes
The Estonian Ministry of the Interior has submitted a draft Personal Names Act to the government for approval. The document, in particular, provides for a lifetime ban on obtaining a new name by any means for people who have committed particularly serious crimes, according to ERR News.
The new law is intended to replace the current Names Act, which has been in effect for over 20 years. The bill revises terminology, clarifies procedures related to names, and changes the process for granting a new name upon a person’s request.
The proposed restriction will apply to individuals who have committed crimes against humanity, genocide, aggression, war crimes, terrorism, crimes against the state, organizing mass riots, as well as serious crimes involving explosives or explosive substances.
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Interior Minister Ihor Taro stated that the changes should meet public expectations, promote security, and foster trust. According to him, individuals convicted of terrorism, war crimes, crimes against the state, or serious crimes against a person should not be allowed to change their name in order to conceal their past or avoid any connection to their previous actions.
The bill also incorporates into the new law the existing restriction on name changes for those convicted of sexual crimes against minors. The new Law on Personal Names will impose a lifetime restriction on name-related procedures for such individuals.
In addition, the bill clarifies the rules for choosing a new last name. A person will not be able to freely choose a last name already held by a living individual listed in the Population Register. The Ministry of Internal Affairs noted that this is intended to prevent the creation of fictitious family ties and reduce the risk of identity theft. The bill also allows for the creation of new surnames in the Estonian style. The law is expected to take effect in 2028.
