Plenary Sessions

A single item on the agenda concerned the carrying out of the first reading of the draft act amending the State Budget Act, initiated by the Centre Party faction. The discussion raised issues of budget transparency and the need to bring the state budget and its explanatory notes into alignment, and to include expenditure and revenue lines in the act. Speakers pointed out that the existing system consolidates details into the explanatory notes, allowing ministers to make changes even after the Riigikogu (Parliament) has voted; critics argue this is a contradiction of constitutional order and clarity. Discussions also covered, in broad terms, proposed solutions and the opportunity to achieve a very thorough discussion and cooperation between the opposition and the coalition during the second reading, in order to achieve a clearer and more accountable budget structure.

The first agenda item concerned the third reading of the draft law amending the Adult Education Act, initiated by the Republic’s Government, and amending other laws in connection with it. The central idea of the draft is the introduction of micro-qualifications, which creates flexible and short learning methods and enables people to quickly acquire specific skills to remain competitive in the labor market. Micro-qualifications are aimed at practical and labor market-required skills and ensure quality in educational institutions through thorough assessment. The terms formal and non-formal education are also clarified, and the concept of a micro-degree is added, which can only be offered by higher education institutions and for which a large part of the program must consist of courses at the higher education level in order to achieve international recognition. Examples from the construction sector illustrated the practical application of micro-degrees in assessing building energy efficiency, restoration, and the use of construction software (e.g., BIM). Discussions emphasized the need for lifelong learning and workforce engagement, but questions were also raised about the succession of teachers and the implementation of the education agreement, as well as the need to resolve additional workloads and salary issues. With the matter proceeding to a final vote, the following result was achieved: the draft was adopted as a law by a majority vote of the Riigikogu.

The Riigikogu discussed draft resolution 498 submitted by the Riigikogu group of the Centre Party, which proposed that the Government of the Republic allocate funds for the co-financing of Tallinn Hospital. Presenter Anastassia Kovalenko-Kõlvart emphasized the critical need for the construction of a new, modern medical city, citing the depreciation of existing hospital buildings and the need to improve the health care system's resilience. She sharply criticized the Reform Party's 2022 decision to withdraw 280 million euros from the European Union recovery fund for the project, calling it political sabotage. The Centre Party and the Tallinn City Government have proposed a financing model in which Tallinn covers the larger portion of the costs (550 million euros), on the condition that the state contributes the national taxes generated from the investment (estimated at 300 million euros).

Representative Irja Lutsar (Estonia 200) from the Leadership Committee and Tanel Kiik, representative of the Social Democratic Party, fundamentally supported the construction of Tallinn Hospital, but emphasized the need for a systemic reform that would also include the merging of North Estonia Regional Hospital (PERH) and the development of both medical cities (Mustamäe and Lasnamäe). They criticized the draft's politicization and noted that the need for funding is not immediate. A majority of the Riigikogu membership (51 votes) was required to pass the draft. The draft did not find support in the final vote.

Under agenda item three, the Riigikogu considered the first reading of the draft law amending the Occupational Safety and Health Act and the Health Insurance Act, initiated by the Estonian Centre Party faction. The presentation was given by esteemed colleague Lauri Laats from the Riigikogu speaker's chair. The draft law aims to establish a system for sickness benefit payments from July 1, 2025, that distributes the deductible over three days, five days, and onward, shifting responsibility to the state (Health Insurance Fund), while simultaneously increasing sickness benefits to 80% of the employee's average wage. The current system and the proposed changes in the draft law were clearly compared: the employee’s responsibility for the first day, the employer's burden for a fourth, and the remaining days’ compensation covered by the Health Insurance Fund.

The first item on the agenda's focus is Estonia’s security and its future; the discussion revolved around the question of whether Estonia should reassess its state-oriented approach to security and seek broader cooperation beyond the NATO framework. Mart Helme posed a question to Prime Minister Kaja Kallas regarding security and, in the context of a 2020 interview, highlighted Plan B and the Intermarium concept, which would bring about closer cooperation between neighboring countries. Regardless of the situation, it was emphasized that NATO alone may not be sufficient or predictable if geopolitical conditions or the trends of larger countries change.

Attention then turned to specific national capabilities and regional cooperation topics: naval capabilities, helicopters and ships, the protection of critical infrastructure, and energy security. The discussion emphasized that NATO operates as a collaboration, and the Baltic states, Finland, and other allies contribute jointly, but this does not mean that Estonia should remain passive or solely rely on allies. Topics were also raised regarding the functioning of a democratic rule of law, the need for explanatory communication to the public, and the importance of enhancing credibility through national laws and institutions.

Today, the state budget's transparency and related cooperation problems were discussed at a sitting of the Riigikogu. In the ongoing discussion, the question was raised as to why a fund of 100 million euros for increasing the share capital of Eesti Energia is visible in the budget, when there was no money for it during some previous government periods. The discussion pointed to confusion regarding allocations with the same name and how different ministers and parties understand these allocations. Opinions were presented that the budget must be understandable and traceable for everyone – both parliamentarians and the public – and that clear and readable forms are needed for presenting the state budget.

The coalition and the government emphasized that planned measures will direct the increase of the budget's transparency and usage-based reporting: the 2025 budget will be described in two different formats to simplify tracking, and digital tools will be increased to enable any stakeholder to monitor spending trends. Opinions extended to the point that sometimes noteworthy technical names or expressions (“discovered,” “lottery win,” etc.) arise, but in reality the money remains, and previous years may not reflect the true nature of large transfers.

The present session addressed KredEx's loan to Nordica and the connections between Nordica and KredEx that occurred in the spring view of 2024. In the first question, Priit Sibul raised the issue of why and on whose decision a loan was provided to Nordica or previous loan collateral was liquidated in the spring of 2024, and whether and how cooperation has taken place in the context of a special audit and in the direction of the prosecutor's investigation. The second part of the discussion focused on the historical background: the loan agreement between KredEx and the Ministry of Economic Affairs and Communications concluded between 2020 and 2021, and the working capital loan granted to Nordica, as a result of which loan disbursements have been made over several years. Immediately following were questions regarding the contract with the Knightwood Global consulting firm and the responsibility of the climate minister, referring to conflicts of interest and the impact of current events on Nordica’s economic situation. The session concluded with an emphasis on refutations, risks raised, and the prosecutor’s independent investigation within the context of cases that have ended up in legal proceedings and the results of the special audit; at the end of the discussion, in accordance with the protocol, the form of the proceedings and the subsequent plan of action were also brought to the table.

This agenda item concerned the question of publishing the final report of the special audit of Nordica. Member of the Riigikogu Rene Kokk posed a question to Prime Minister Kaja Kallas regarding the publication of the final report of the special audit of Nordica, and the discussion touched on the transparency of audits, the protection of state funds, and the notification of management obligations to the public. The discussion also raised the need to share the report with members of the Riigikogu, the National Audit Office, and the Prosecutor's Office, and to broaden the discussion to understand what management errors and risk management findings the special audits revealed. At a fundamental level, the discussion highlighted that, in the name of maximum transparency and the implementation of the rule of law, such materials should be accessible to the public and a wider range of authorities, not just specialist committees.

Furthermore, the need for special audits of state-owned enterprises was later discussed in a broader context, and whether and when similar audits could take place, referencing previous experiences at Eesti Energia, Tallinna Sadam, and Rail Baltic. The aim was to clarify how critical questions and risks reach the general assembly and to ministers, and how increasing public and responsible institutions' awareness can help prevent similar management errors in the future. Finally, the importance of the Prosecutor's Office investigation was emphasized, which will compile a picture of who and what exactly was done, and will provide signals on how to ensure accountability for management and asset management.

The agenda’s focus is a thorough discussion of the newly opened Tallinn–Vilnius rail connection: why this line was opened, how it affects state funding, and what approaches are planned to connect our country with neighboring countries (including Lithuania and Latvia), as well as what interactions there are between all participants during rail operations. Member of the Riigikogu Vladimir Arhipov raised a question regarding the economic and practical aspects, and the discussion highlighted the synchronization of schedules, the duration of transfers, and the potential expansion of future connections.

Furthermore, an additional question was raised concerning Nordica aircraft, which addressed the situation of an aircraft in Vietnam against the background of bankruptcy proceedings and its impact on taxpayer costs and transparency. Minister Vladimir Svet then explained the principles related to the management and sale of the aircraft and promised to mitigate risks through publically accessible procedures and reports, emphasizing the need to coordinate and publish processes within certain limits.

The Riigikogu’s sixth question was addressed to Prime Minister Kaja Kallas and concerned the government's actions regarding the right to vote for non-citizens in local elections. The question was posed by Riigikogu member Urmas Reinsalu, who accused the government of cowardice and being held hostage by the Social Democrats, as the coalition has been unable to make a decision to revoke the right to vote from all non-citizens, including stateless persons, even though it would align with Estonia’s security interests and enjoy widespread support in parliament.

Prime Minister Kallas acknowledged that her personal preference would be to revoke the right to vote from all non-citizens, but emphasized that an urgent amendment to the constitution requires broad consensus in parliament, which is lacking due to the Social Democrats’ opposition. Kallas stressed that politically achievable and the most important priority from a security perspective is to prevent citizens of aggressor states (Russia and Belarus) from participating in Estonia's internal affairs. She labelled the broader question (grey passport holders) as "nice to have" and called on the opposition to first support this narrower, but critical, step. Vadim Belobrovtsev also participated in the debate, challenging Reinsalu’s claims of widespread support and referring to criticism from the Chancellor of Justice and lawyers, who do not see a security risk in revoking the right to vote from long-term residents.

Today's session addressed the seventh question to Prime Minister Kaja Kallas, posed by Riigikogu member Siim Pohlak, concerning the supply of electricity. The discussion centered on the desynchronization of the Baltic states from the Russian grid and the timing of this process—why early February was chosen and whether it was the correct date for the country's residents. The discussion highlighted the need to ensure supply security and cooperation with continental European grids, so that energy security no longer depends on the Russian network. Additionally, the issue of preparedness and compiled plans for covering energy supply, and the impact of interim price changes in the absence of forecasts, came to the forefront. The legal and security aspects, as well as the roles of operators, Elering, and European partners, also came into focus.

The first paragraph addressed the topic of corruption risks in government decisions within the framework of the eighth question, followed by a discussion on the role and requirements of the State Secretary. The question was posed by Riigikogu member Anastassia Kovalenko-Kõlvart to Prime Minister Kaja Kallas, and the central focus was directed at issues of trust and transparency concerning higher officials and decision-making processes.

Nine’s prepared question concerned the railway investment topic represented by Infrastructure Minister Vladimir Svet. The central discussion revolved primarily around the mobility reform and the 2025 budget context of its implementation. Karilaid raised the attention to the central 20 million euro sum, which in his opinion would likely be a small, but important stop in the next stage of the Tallinn–Haapsalu–Rohuküla railway development. He questioned how far away the utilization of the 20 million is and when the works will actually move forward, referring to the need to eventually reach Risti and onward to Rohuküla. Minister Svet set broader frameworks: 20 million is not within the Climate Ministry’s budget and the funding is planned under the Regional and Agricultural Ministry’s resources as part of the mobility reform. He emphasized that the project does not limit itself to Haapsalu, but encompasses the Rohuküla connection and ferry transfer possibilities, and stressed the importance of the state budget and budget strategy in the context of quick and decisive actions. How far and with what steps the next stage will reach depends on the state budget procedure and long-term plans and occasionally growing investment interest rates for the entire railway. Ultimately, it emerged that a large investment in Estonian Railways, including electrification and acceleration, is planned for the coming years (approximately 500 million euros), which will create a foundation for improving connections and speeds, and in turn also for the development of Haapsalu–Hiiumaa connections in the future.

The Riigikogu held the first reading of draft law amending the Legal Chancellor Act and the Prosecutor's Office Act, initiated by the Estonian Conservative People’s Party faction (EKRE). The draft's purpose is to change the principles of reimbursement for representation expenses for the Legal Chancellor and the Prosecutor General, stipulating that representation expenses are to be paid out based on submitted receipts. The order is established by the Riigikogu’s anti-corruption special committee. During the debate, the importance of transparency and public trust was highlighted, and questions were raised about how higher-ranking officials could be subject to the same standards of control as members of the Riigikogu. It was clarified that transparency and accountability are critical for good governance, and various solutions were discussed, including the need for a unified regulation of expense allowances for all institutions.

The Riigikogu began its agenda with the discussion of a question posed by Riigikogu members Lauri Laats, Andrei Korobeinik, Vladimir Arhipov, and Vadim Belobrovtsev, concerning the actions of the members of the Republic of Estonia’s Government regarding the raising of taxes and fees, focusing particularly on the sharp increase in notary fees. The presenter of the question, Lauri Laats (dCJrTlUxNYA), criticized the government for another “bad surprise,” noting that the 30% increase in notary fees (which will bring an additional 11.5 million euros in revenue to notaries) will negatively impact the economy, creating a snowball effect. He asked whether the Prime Minister was aware of the initiative from the Minister of Justice and whether the government considers this a tax increase.

Prime Minister Kaja Kallas responded that the bill on the law on notary fees was submitted to the government on November 17, 2023. She emphasized that state fees and charges are not taxes, but are related to the provision of specific public services, and confirmed that tax peace is valid until 2027. Kallas explained that the purpose of raising notary fees is to ensure the availability of services in regional centers, as the fees have not been changed for a long time. In the subsequent debate, Vadim Belobrovtsev (TqT5YjnBr0U) and Lauri Laats asked whether such a sharp increase is proportional and why the regional accessibility problem is not being solved on a needs basis, but rather a nationwide fee increase is being implemented. The Prime Minister replied that there is a clear connection between fees and the availability of services and suggested that the opposition can make proposals for regionally differentiated fees during the bill's processing.

Today, the Riigikogu addressed the question posed by Lauri Laats, Vadim Belobrovtsev, and Andrei Korobeinik, submitted on November 13th of last year, concerning the restoration and resilience plan and the use of shale oil. The purpose of the question was to clarify how and how quickly it might be possible to promote the use of shale oil in the energy sector while ensuring manageable capacity and energy security, particularly in the context of changes occurring during the war. The questions raised included the feasibility of planned reforms, necessary investments, financing schemes, and the government's positions regarding the role of shale oil in strategic energy policy.

In speeches, the focus was on energy security and future production capacity, and discussions were held about whether and for how long shale oil-based electricity should remain a controllable energy consumer in the system, and how to align with European Union funds and the conditions of the restoration and resilience plan. Furthermore, it was pointed out that altering or violating the objectives associated with the plan would have serious consequences for cooperation and funding from the European Commission, and that dialogue will continue in the energy sector both with the Riigikogu and with the government. The second part of the discussion also touched on the possible use of shale oil in fine chemistry and the need to ensure equipment reliability and competitiveness in the future.

The focus of the third agenda item was the inquiry presented to the Riigikogu (Estonian Parliament) on December 2nd of last year regarding the stability and price of electricity production. The members of the inquiry were Lauri Laats, Vadim Belobrovtsev, Vladimir Arhipov, Andrei Korobeinik, Anastassia Kovalenko-Kõlvart, and Aleksandr Tšaplõgin. Lauri Laats, representing the members of the inquiry, spoke from the Riigikogu rostrum. The justification was a special audit of Eesti Energia, and the observation that the lack of raw materials and investments, as well as green policies, are reflected in the electricity market and price dynamics.

The second major section addressed the government and energy sector's responses regarding: the desynchronization of the Baltic states’ networks, ensuring production capacity, and mitigating risks, including a 1000 megawatt controllable volume, island mode, and strategic reserve. In addition, discussions were held concerning gas stations and the potential future adoption of nuclear energy, as well as the role of a renewable energy-based price structure. The discussion raised a critical question for green policy and the need to avoid a two-sided approach, emphasizing the need for balanced solutions for the economy's competitiveness and the interests of consumers.

The Riigikogu discussed a question (no. 666) submitted by the Centre Party faction regarding the closure of the Jõhvi courthouse. Lauri Laats, speaking on behalf of the questioners, expressed concern about the government's austerity policies and the lack of regional policy, considering the closure of the Jõhvi courthouse a bad example. Justice and Digital Minister Liisa-Ly Pakosta explained that the austerity proposals came from the courts themselves, ensuring independence. She emphasized that the upkeep costs of the Jõhvi building are strikingly high compared to other courthouses, as it is a building completed in cooperation with the private sector at a high rental price. According to the minister, the goal is to save per square meter (rental costs), not from those administering justice, and that judges can fit into the Rakvere and Narva courthouses. Pakosta stressed that the judicial reform focuses on digitization, specialization, and reducing the workload of the courts, citing divorce cases as an example, which do not require substantive judicial discussion. The opposition (Centre Party, EKRE) sharply criticized the decision, considering it unacceptable from the perspective of security and the sense of justice in Ida-Virumaa, and accused the government of managing based on "Excel." The minister confirmed that options are being sought in Jõhvi to maintain a judicial representation to ensure service accessibility.

A brief overview of the agenda: Riigikogu debate regarding the inquiry presented on November 20, 2024, by Arvo Aller, Martin Helme, Rain Epler, Kert Kingo, and Evelin Poolamets, concerning court budget cuts plan no. 669. The central question involved the possibility of closing the Jõhvi courthouse and its impact on Ida-Viru County and the entire border region. The content of the inquiry encompassed questions of the efficiency of court building space usage as well as the presence of the state and accessibility of justice. In the initial speech, Arvo Aller spoke, and the entire debate moved toward a wide range of questions and answers regarding the regional impact of court reforms and the necessary guarantees.

This sitting was a fun and festive gathering in the Riigikogu hall to mark the end of the year, centered around the distribution of Christmas presents and gifts, alongside a suitably ironic discussion about the year’s happenings. An introduction filled with impressions and keywords drew attention to the balance left behind: while the hall was filled with a lightly sarcastic sense of good cheer, the speaker in question alluded to the reduction of expense allowances, the issue of income tax, and a gently comedic treatment of other economic policy contradictions. The socially and politically diverse composition of the participants shaped a multifaceted performative discourse, where each party represented itself with a characteristic gift, poem, or musical suggestion.

In the second half, the focus shifted to the rituals associated with Santa Claus, which were simultaneously symbolic and entertaining: the distribution of gifts in committees, gifts intended for window sills, and the observer’s role, attempting to capture the panorama of the hall. At the same time, the economic and administrative theme was highlighted: discussions about limiting expense allowances and theories about income tax, which belonged to the contextualized discussions during the sitting. All of this concluded with a call to continue working together and a contemplation on time and the future for the Riigikogu and for all of Estonia.

Agenda item number 1 concerned the third reading of the draft law amending the Code of Civil Procedure and other laws (establishment of collective redress proceedings) number 334, initiated by the Government of the Republic. After opening and closing deliberations, the committee proposed holding the final vote on the draft. The chair drew attention to the fact that the adoption of the law requires a majority of the composition of the Riigikogu. In the final vote, 69 members of the Riigikogu supported the adoption of the draft, 2 were against, and there were no abstentions. As the required majority was achieved, draft 334 was adopted as a law.

This agenda item concerned the third reading of the draft law amending the Act on the Status of a Member of the Riigikogu (Parliament). The draft was initiated in collaboration with several factions (including Eesti 200, the Social Democratic Party, the Estonian Reform Party, and EKRE) and addresses both the representative expenses of members of the Riigikogu and the salaries of government members, and their connection to work obligations. A clear line has formed, indicating the aim is to increase the transparency of expenses and to make them more understandable and fairer in the context of national defense and government. The background of similar drafts discussed in December reflects an effort to demonstrate that expenses are being discussed and that solidarity fosters thrift.

On the third reading, the draft amendment to the Mining Act, initiated by the Republic's Government, was discussed, the purpose of which is to temporarily halt current permitting procedures for 2025 and to establish exceptions under which production could continue in the presence of critical raw materials. The draft operates at the level of better management of national wealth and state regulation, taking into account climate and environmental policy and international obligations to reduce CO2 emissions.

The second part of the discussion focused on the issues of the divergence of constitutional foundations and legal expectations (the principle of legal certainty). Analyses from the Legal and Analysis Department and the Ministry of Climate found that while a certain degree of divergence may arise, the law is not unconstitutional in its fundamental basis, but it requires a clear timetable and consideration of the impact on legal certainty in order to avoid the greatest damage to entrepreneurs. At the same time, the need was emphasized to ensure a transition to a sustainable economy and to maintain stability in the energy and economic systems as the state controls the use and preservation of its mineral resources. Finally, the Reform Party faction and other government partners supported the draft as the best means of balancing economic activity, the impact on legal certainty, and the sustainable management of the state's wealth. The final vote on the draft was brought forward and the funding and adoption were confirmed.

The fourth agenda item concerned the third reading of draft law 497 amending the Identity Documents Act and, in connection therewith, amending other laws, initiated by the Government of the Republic. Following the opening and closing of debate, as proposed by the leading committee, the final vote on the draft law commenced. A total of 72 members of the Riigikogu participated in the vote. Sixty-seven members voted in favor of the draft law, three voted against, and two abstained. Draft law 497 was adopted as a law, marking a significant step in the modernization of the regulation of identity documents.

The agenda item was the second reading of draft resolution 542 of the Riigikogu, "Increasing the Republic of Estonia's participation in the European Bank for Reconstruction and Development," submitted by the Government of the Republic. On behalf of the Finance Committee, Tanel Kiik gave a presentation, stating that no proposals were received from members of the Riigikogu or factions by the deadline for submitting amendments, and therefore only linguistic and technical clarifications were incorporated into the draft. The lead committee decided unanimously to propose conducting a final vote on the draft. During the presentation, it was explained that the increase in participation is primarily necessary to support projects in Ukraine, as the volume of work of the European Bank for Reconstruction and Development (EBRD) has increased there due to war damage. Estonia's contribution to the capital increase (a total of 4 billion euros) is 4 million euros. Following brief discussions, a final vote was taken, as a result of which resolution 542 was adopted.

The agenda item was the second reading of the draft law amending the Adult Education Act, and amending other laws in connection therewith, initiated by the Republic's Government. Liina Kersna, a member of the Culture Committee, presented a detailed report, explaining the draft law’s process and the work done by the committee. The main objective of the draft law is to establish the concept of micro-qualifications at the level of law, to legalize micro-degrees already offered by universities. No external proposals were received by the deadline for submitting amendments, but the Culture Committee initiated four amendments in cooperation with the Ministry of Education and Research. The most substantial amendment was a proposal from the Council of Rectors to include credits as the basis for state funding for supplementary training, to take into account the volume of micro-degree training in higher education institutions. The committee also discussed a proposal from the private sector to reduce the state fee for quality assessment, which the ministry rejected, and a proposal from the Employment Office to extend voluntary quality assessment, which was not considered suitable for inclusion in the law. All four committee amendment proposals were fully taken into consideration, including postponing the entry into force of the draft law to April 1, 2025. The leading committee made a proposal to conclude the second reading of the draft law.

The budget and health legislation debate focuses on the first reading of bill 532 amending the Medicines Act, which concerns the creation and use of medicines handled within the hospital exemption. The bill aims to ease restrictions from 2022 and allow wider access to innovative treatment options when a similar medicine with a marketing authorization is not sufficiently available in Estonia. The permitted duration of use within the hospital exemption is also being increased and procedure deadlines reduced to accelerate accessibility for patients. Medicines prepared within the hospital exemption are exceptional and intended for specific patients, not for sale or export, and quality, efficacy, and safety requirements remain paramount.

The second part of the debate focuses on risk mitigation, oversight, and financing: how to ensure safety and quality, when hospital pharmacies’ capacity and production conditions must meet stringent standards; how to address the specific challenges of cell therapy (CAR-T) and gene therapy; and how the bill addresses the situation where similar innovative medicines may be available on the market, potentially reducing the need for the hospital exemption. The discussion also includes funding and reimbursement, along with critical examples from around the world that emphasize careful risk assessment and the importance of clinical trials.

The first reading of draft 541, which aims to accelerate the adoption of renewable energy and changes to planning legislation, the building code, and the environmental charges act, took place. The draft proposes solutions for the organization of state and local government special planning procedures, allows for a more detailed project to be prepared in the initial stage, and changes the procedure for public display and discussion so that involvement takes place in the most relevant area. In addition, the system of environmental charges is being modified in relation to wind turbine fees, which will result in greater clarity and a clear geographical distribution among local governments. The planned package of measures is hoped to save time and reduce processing times and make the process more purposeful for both developers and residents.

The debate focused primarily on the role of environmental impact assessments, how involvement is organized, and what the conditions are for the distribution of local benefits in the case of wind turbines. The opposition and several factions (including EKRE, Isamaa, Eesti 200) also raised the issue of establishing offshore wind farms, their impact on both the environment and the economy, and consumer prices, and whether acceleration justifies a possible ecological and social cost. The discussion regarding the objectives and risks of the draft reflects the effort to find a balance between accelerating the development of renewable energy and comprehensive environmental protection, the rights of local residents, and the interests of consumers.

Member of the Riigikogu, Tõnis Lukas, posed a question to the Minister of Culture, Heidy Purga, regarding the tourism strategy 2035, sharply criticizing the fact that the development plan drawn up by the Ministry of Economic Affairs and Communications has assigned an inadequate role to cultural tourism. Lukas emphasized that culture (monuments, theatrical performances, festivals) is actually the main attraction for Estonian tourism and a driver of the economy, and asked why culture lacks a worthy place in the strategy.

Minister Purga acknowledged the criticism, noting that the Ministry of Culture (MC) regrets that their proposals were not taken into account in a timely manner. The MC had just submitted its input, demanding a greater focus on cultural tourism, a connection between culture and the development plan, and an expanded consideration of heritage tourism (both tangible and intangible). Lukas expressed indignation that the long-term strategy was presented without the MC’s input, indicating a second-class status for culture within the government. Purga responded, highlighting recent progress: for the first time, culture is officially recognized as part of the economy in the government’s economic growth plan. Additionally, Helir-Valdor Seeder intervened, criticizing the MC’s decision to end state funding for sports associations Jõud and Koolisport, and presented the minister with a symbolic golden soccer ball, while also acknowledging the successful continuation of the county soccer hall project.

The second question in the Riigikogu addressed the state budget savings and the propagandistic and actual cuts associated with it. The first part concerned the termination of funding for the school psychologists' advisory line 1226 and the need for 30,000 euros; members of the Riigikogu raised the question of whether the funds could be found from the private sector or whether it would be subject to general savings. The discussion also referred to two bills presented by the Centre Party – on the transparency of representative expenses and the salaries of members of the Riigikogu – which were rejected in committee at the insistence of the coalition and for which documents and actual amounts were requested from the minister. The second part focused on broad-based austerity policies related to the economic crisis and regional issues, as well as the plan for special representatives and seed schools or "seed representatives," discussing their benefit to regional development and the logic of their funding.

Member of the Riigikogu Varro Vooglaid submitted an inquiry to the Minister of Foreign Affairs Margus Tsahkna regarding Estonia’s intervention in Georgia’s internal affairs. Vooglaid accused the minister of systematically damaging Estonian-Georgian relations, citing the imposition of sanctions on Georgian politicians and the minister’s participation in opposition rallies in Tbilisi. Vooglaid emphasized that such actions violate the principle of diplomatic relations under the Vienna Convention, which prohibits intervention in the internal affairs of other countries, and found the Georgian government’s commentary about Estonia’s “Soviet mentality” to be entirely appropriate. The Minister of Foreign Affairs Tsahkna categorically rejected the accusations, calling Vooglaid’s arguments "Kremlin talking points." Tsahkna explained that Estonia supports the desire of the Georgian people to move towards the European Union and that the sanctions are targeted at an undemocratic regime that uses violence, torture, and unlawful force against its peaceful demonstrators. Tsahkna emphasized that Estonia’s duty is to support the Georgian people in their fight for freedom. Lauri Laats posed an additional question, criticizing the minister’s rhetoric in labeling a member of parliament as Kremlin-aligned and arguing that the situation in Georgia is not black and white. The debate ended with Vooglaid’s procedural protest against the session chairman, as the minister had avoided answering questions about evidence regarding the Vienna Convention and the undemocratic nature of Georgian elections, focusing instead on personal insults. The session chairman refused to intervene in the political debate.

The fourth question addresses Foreign Minister Margus Tsahkna and focuses on foreign policy. During the speech, Estonia’s position regarding Georgia, the United States, and Israel was raised, and the desire to prevent Georgia from falling under Russian influence was emphasized. Riina Solman also raised questions and criticisms concerning Estonia’s higher education policy and the spread of antisemitism, following EKA’s decision to terminate cooperation with Israeli universities. The discussion encompassed long-standing alliances, security, maintaining a free exchange of knowledge, and continuing cultural and educational cooperation. Participants in the debate stressed the need to base decisions on facts and maintain a united front, so that Estonia’s foreign policy remains stable and the interests of allies are not jeopardized.

The discussion concerning the Kopli fire brigade focused primarily on the future of the Kopli fire brigade in Tallinn and the related budget line reallocation. The raised question concerned the decision made last autumn to close the Kopli fire brigade and reported that the budget line “Rescue operations on land and inland waters” remained unused this year by almost 3.6 million euros, a certain amount of which could have covered the need to continue the Kopli fire brigade. The discussion touched on the feeling of safety in North Tallinn and the workload of the Lilleküla fire brigade, and the question was raised as to who is responsible for the previous decision and why the selected solutions were given.

The second discussion topic dealt with the creation of municipal crisis organizers. The commission’s examination of the funding transfer drew attention to whether each municipality has sufficient resources to hire a single crisis organizer and whether 500 euros (net amount) is enough to get started. Eventually, the discussion progressed to the point where crisis management should be county-based, where, with the help of one or two people, an attempt will be made to provide support over three years, and that municipalities decide how to organize the involvement of money and labor. The overall theme was to increase capacity in crisis situations and to ensure crisis assistance from the state at a regional level in a way that depends on the specific municipalities and county needs.

In the sixth question debate held between government members and members of the Riigikogu, the focus was on promoting regional development in the economic sphere and the criticism surrounding the necessity of creating new positions, or "social economic growth guardians." The debate highlighted the role of local governments and development centers in implementing development plans, utilizing investment opportunities, and the importance of the effective distribution of European Union funds throughout the country’s regions. The significance of the Haapsalu railway project in promoting regional networks and economic growth was also brought up, along with questions regarding how and why available funds and knowledge can be better distributed to the regions.

The question at hand concerned the funding of cultural institutions and the strategic and operational issues associated with it. The discussion highlighted that there has recently been critical debate regarding the salaries of cultural workers and broader funding activities: a 4% budget cut for institutions managed by the Ministry of Culture until 2027, while simultaneously there's a need and opportunity to increase the salaries of cultural workers next year. In addition, they discussed the scope and conditions of the construction or expansion of the Estonian National Opera, as well as concessions arising from the architectural competition and heritage protection. Regional funding issues were also raised concerning ERR’s news coverage of Lääne County, Hiiumaa island, and neighboring areas, as well as questions regarding ERR’s independence and budget stabilization. Another important focus was ERR's legal framework and the transparency of budget-based decisions, which the minister promised to clarify in future proceedings.

This agenda item addressed relations between Estonia and Georgia, and Estonia’s foreign policy position within the context of events in Georgia. The Riigikogu questioned Foreign Minister Margus Tsahkna regarding how Estonia envisions recognizing the results of the Georgian elections and what role democracy and human rights issues, and the limits of intervention, play in Estonia’s position. In addition, discussions were held concerning the measures associated with foreign countries’ reactions to the Georgian crisis and how to ensure that the Georgian people can continue to express their wishes and that democratic norms and human rights are protected. Another topic emphasized potential scenarios involving mass demonstrations and the Estonian government’s response, and highlighted the need to monitor the development of these events within the context of democracy and international law.

Agenda item number 1 concerned the third reading of the draft law amending the Accounting Act, and consequently amending other laws, initiated by the Republic's Government. Opening remarks primarily raised the question of the impact of sustainability reporting obligations on business, including increased costs, bureaucracy, and the timing of implementing new standards. The discussion also alluded to the imposition of ideological elements and the alleged undermining of democratic processes; in the form of diversity and inclusion requirements, critics see a potential connection between democracy and the freedom of enterprise. In addition, proposals were made aimed at reducing economic and administrative burdens, and creating a practical timetable, including specifying limits in auditing requirements and regular analyses of potential changes.

Finance Minister Jürgen Ligi presented an overview to the Riigikogu regarding the stability support provided by the European Stability Mechanism (ESM) and the Republic of Estonia’s participation in the mechanism. In his introduction, the Minister emphasized the importance of memory and continuity, recalling the heated debates 12 years ago following the global financial crisis regarding the creation of the ESM. He affirmed that the existence of the ESM has helped to calm financial markets and that it was a good investment for Estonia in ensuring market stability.

Ligi highlighted that the ESM currently has no active support programs. Previous support loans (both from the ESM and its predecessor, the EFSF) are in the monitoring phase and repayments have begun (Spain in 2022, Greece EFSF loan repayments in 2023). He emphasized Greece's successful economic reforms, noting that Greece's current budget is in better shape than Estonia’s. The Minister explained that the ESM reform, which would give the mechanism the role of a crisis resolution fund within the banking union, remains unratified due to Italy's non-ratification. Although the ESM has maintained high credit ratings and has a large lending capacity (€417.5 billion), the Minister does not currently see any country on the horizon that urgently needs assistance. He also cautioned against excessive expansion of the ESM's functions to avoid collective responsibility for the loose budgetary policies of other countries, stressing that budgetary responsibility must remain national.

As the third item on the Riigikogu’s agenda, the first reading of the draft law amending the Act on the Implementation of the Common Agricultural Policy of the European Union and the Feed Act 546 took place, initiated by the Government of the Republic. Regional and Agricultural Minister Piret Hartman introduced the draft, whose main objectives are to align Estonian legislation with amendments to European Union law, increase legal clarity, and resolve implementation problems. The most significant change concerns the implementation of a system of social conditionality, linking the receipt of subsidies to compliance with requirements related to work and employment. It is also being abandoned the easing of the application of protective measures associated with conditionality (although the minister later clarified that the limit of claims of 100 euros without interest will remain in effect), strengthens the protection of geographical indications, and restructures the network of agricultural accounting data into a network of sustainability data.

During the debate, Arvo Aller, representing the faction of the Estonian Conservative People's Party, criticised the increased administrative burden for applicants and the resulting inequality in controls associated with the introduction of social conditionality. He also inquired about the future control functions of the Land Board (MaRu). Kalle Grünthal raised the question of the constitutionality of adopting EU acts between the Riigikogu and the European Union Affairs Committee (ELAK). The leading committee proposed to end the first reading, but the EKRE faction proposed to reject the draft law. The vote did not find support for the EKRE proposal.

The fourth item on the agenda concerned the first reading of the draft law 525, initiated by the Isamaa faction, to bring the State Budget Act into compliance with the Constitution of the Republic of Estonia. Urmas Reinsalu, having reached the Speaker's rostrum of the Riigikogu, delivered the presentation, emphasizing parliament’s primary fundamental goal: to restore financially political choices consistent with the Constitution, and to clearly differentiate between income and expenses in budgets. It was also noted that the current funding structure and distribution of subsidies to legal entities require transparency and control. It was explained that the assessment of administrative expenses and their increases appears inadequately aligned with the 2024–2027 budget bases, and that questions arise regarding the growth of transferable funds and the under-utilization of external funds. The content of the draft focused on suitable changes to the basic law and that future subsidies to legal entities would be recorded item by item and transparently. It was regretted that the coalition has not merged or co-financed proposals, and that budget transparency continues to be a problem. In the second part, the discussions became substantive, addressing the commission's role and plan, and at the end, it was decided to continue the procedure, although later, as a final result, a critical assessment was reached regarding the amendment of the State Budget Act's basic law. Overall, it reflected a desire to improve transparency, but differences between the coalition and the opposition and in the final formatting of the draft law caused further considerations.

At a sitting of the Riigikogu, the draft law amending the Act on the Status of a Member of the Riigikogu was debated for a second reading, 545. The presentation was made by the chairman of the Constitutional Committee, Hendrik Johannes Terras. The committee had discussed two amendment proposals. The first proposal, submitted by the Constitutional Committee itself, to add the clarifying phrase "based on supporting documents," found support and was fully taken into consideration. The second amendment proposal, submitted by the Centre Party faction, sought to replace the entire content of the draft law with a previous Centre Party draft that would link the remuneration of members of the Riigikogu to their attendance in both the main hall and committees. The leading committee did not support this proposal and it was not taken into consideration. After opening and closing discussions, a proposal was made to conclude the second reading of the draft law and to hold the final vote on December 18th.

The agenda item was the third reading of bill 461, amending the Waste Management Act and, in connection with that, amending other laws, initiated by the Republic's Government. Although the bill's title referred to the Waste Management Act, all speakers essentially treated it as an amendment bill concerning motor vehicle tax (automotive tax), dealing with the handling of scrap vehicles and the taxation of vehicles temporarily suspended in the registry.

Opposition factions (Isamaa, EKRE, Centre Party) sharply criticized the bill, considering it a hastily assembled amendment to fix errors in the motor vehicle tax. Andres Metsoja (Isamaa) emphasized that motor vehicle tax is inherently unfair, increasing inequality between regions, and highlighted the bill's problems in defining property rights and abandoned property. Rain Epler (EKRE) called the motor vehicle tax a "rushed-together mess" and found that the scrap levy (800 euros) being introduced by the bill is actually yet another tax. Lauri Laats (Centre Party) agreed, confirming that the Centre Party faction does not support the motor vehicle tax or the related amendment laws, which burden households and businesses. Coalition factions (Eesti 200, Social Democrats) conversely supported the bill. Igor Taro (Eesti 200) emphasized that the bill addresses a significant environmental problem in the long term, resolving the scrap issue and balancing the property rights of vehicle owners with the rights of landowners. Anti Allas (SDE) praised the bill as a sensible and improved law, refined during the procedure, which exempts vehicles temporarily removed from the registry from motor vehicle tax, thereby avoiding people's disappointment.

The present agenda deals with the implementation of the fundamental principles of criminal policy until 2030, viewed through a 2023 overview. The presentation length is up to 20 minutes, and each member of the Riigikogu is entitled to ask a question; negotiations are open to parliamentary groups and the minister. The presenter is prospective Minister of Justice and Digital Transformation, Liisa-Ly Pakosta. The structure of the agenda was primarily deliberative and guiding for real decisions: the focus is on planning future steps and drafts, including accelerated procedures and the area of preventative measures. Key topics included cybersecurity and the growth of cybercrime, victim protection, accelerating digital proceedings, the topics of victims with special needs and family and neighborhood safety, improving preventative work and cooperation, and issues related to regional impact in the context of court closures and digital solutions. This was followed by a consideration of the links between narcotics and crime, future possibilities for the court and prison systems, and regional challenges, including the matter of the Põlva courthouse.

Justice and Digital Minister Liisa-Ly Pakosta presented an overview of the implementation of "Principles of Legislation Policy Until 2030" in 2023. The Minister emphasized the massive volume of legislation, noting that 64% of existing laws (249 out of 392) were amended in 2023. She highlighted concerns about a decline in government credibility, which, according to the OECD, is closely linked to the perceived lack of opportunity for people to participate in policy formation. Pakosta named short coordination deadlines (an average of five working days for budget-related bills), the late involvement of stakeholder groups, and inadequate constitutional analysis in bill explanatory notes, as key problems, as also emphasized by constitutional law experts. Pakosta introduced nine steps to improve the quality of legislation, including the principle of reducing bureaucracy – "one in, one out" – clarifying the norms for development intentions, and tightening the requirements for constitutional review. The debate covered the volume of Estonian legislation in an international context, the use of law firms to draft bills, and the Minister's self-critical position within the coalition. Questions were also raised about the regulation of regional policy (the closure of the Jõhvi courthouse) and social media (toxic TikTok).