A screening of the 2015 documentary “The Story of the Baltic University” will take place at the Vabamu Museum of Occupations and Freedom in Tallinn on March 19, commemorating the 80th anniversary of the university’s founding in exile.
A University Born of Displacement
The Baltic University in Exile was established in Hamburg, Germany, by refugees from Estonia, Latvia, and Lithuania. It provided a continuation of studies for students whose education had been interrupted by the advance of the Red Army.
Despite its brief existence, the university demonstrated the resilience and organizational capabilities of Baltic refugees in the years following World War II.
Documenting a Forgotten History
Dutch filmmaker Helga Merits’ 2015 documentary reconstructs the story of the Baltic University through interviews with former students, rare footage, and historical documents. Merits was initially inspired to create the film after discovering her father’s study book and diary from his time at the university.
Merits noted that her father “was so happy to leave the depressing refugee camp and start a modern life” at the university, though his studies were cut short by illness. She also referenced a text by Robert Riggle, an American working with UNRRA, who described establishing the university as “the kind of exaggerated adventure to which a man cannot say no.”
Merits aimed to showcase the hope, courage, and determination of those involved, and to demonstrate what can be achieved through collaboration, even under difficult circumstances.
Event Details
The screening, beginning at 6 p.m., will be shown in English with Estonian subtitles. A discussion and Q&A will follow, featuring filmmaker Helga Merits, literary scholar Tiina Kirss (whose parents attended the university), and telecommunications engineer Guntis Berzins (whose mother was an associate professor at the university).
Prior to the film, a guided tour of Vabamu’s temporary exhibition, “Estonia Worldwide,” will be offered at 5:15 p.m. With curator Ede Schank Tamkivi. The exhibition explores 150 years of Estonian migration.
Attendance is free, but registration is required due to limited seating. Registration can be completed here. More information about the documentary is available here.
Frequently Asked Questions
When and where will the screening take place?
The screening will take place on Thursday, March 19, at the Vabamu Museum of Occupations and Freedom in Tallinn, beginning at 6 p.m.
Who will be participating in the discussion after the film?
Filmmaker Helga Merits, literary scholar Tiina Kirss, and telecommunications engineer Guntis Berzins will participate in the discussion and Q&A.
Is there a cost to attend the event?
The event is free, but advance registration is required due to limited seating.
What does the story of the Baltic University tell us about the power of education and community in times of crisis?
