JBANC Baltic Spotlight. “Reboolting a Nation. Estonia’s Rise as a Tech Powerhouse”

The Joint Baltic American National Committee (JBANC) hosts its latest Baltic Spotlight on June 4 at 8:00 PM ET, featuring Joel Burke, a technologist, author, and former e-government advisor.

The conversation will explore Estonia’s digital transformation—from a post-Soviet state to a world leader in e-government and startup innovation. We’ll discuss Estonia’s pioneering use of artificial intelligence in governance, digital identity systems, and what other nations can learn from its success.

Joel Burke is a Georgetown University alumnus based in Washington, D.C., with experience working on four continents and advising both startups and governments. He previously led a team for the Republic of Estonia’s groundbreaking e-Residency program and has advised members of the U.S. Congress on technology and AI policy.

Joel’s book, Rebooting a Nation: The Incredible Rise of Estonia, E-Government and the Startup Revolution, offers an insider’s perspective on Estonia’s rapid ascent as a digital powerhouse. From the rise of companies like Wise and Bolt to a state where 99% of government services are online, the book explores the bold reforms, technologies, and mindset that reshaped an entire nation.

Join us for a thoughtful look at how one nation leveraged innovation to modernize governance and empower its citizens!