Agenda Profile: Peeter Ernits
Interpellation concerning the transfer of Swedish criminals to Estonia (No. 803)
2025-10-06
The 15th Riigikogu, 6th Session, Plenary Sitting
Political Position
The political position is strongly opposed to the Tidö Agreement regarding the transfer of Swedish prisoners to Estonia, viewing it as a shortsighted and dangerous deal. Criticism is aimed at the government's priorities, particularly the burdening of citizens (the car tax) at the same time that swift and risky foreign agreements are being concluded. The stance is value-based and results-oriented, emphasizing security risks and the failure to address domestic problems.
3 Speeches Analyzed
Topic Expertise
The speaker demonstrates knowledge of international analyses and historical cases concerning the leasing of prisons (Norway, Belgium, Netherlands projects). He/She uses specific financial data (cost per prisoner €8500, minister's salary €7445) and legal details regarding ratification requirements (three-quarters in the Riksdag). Specific sources are cited, such as Euronews and the Prison Reform Trust blog.
3 Speeches Analyzed
Rhetorical Style
The rhetorical style is ironic and sharply critical, employing sarcasm (e.g., "every Muhammad for 8,500 euros to Tartu, the city of good thoughts"). The tone is concerned and cautionary, highlighting risks (administrative complaints, Oriental languages) and contrasting the 'cheap' money (30 million) with moral and security risks. The speaker utilizes both logical arguments (cost comparison) and emotional appeals (violent foreign criminals).
3 Speeches Analyzed
Activity Patterns
The speaker's actions involve reading foreign analyses and blogs, as well as consulting with the Chief Justice of the Supreme Court concerning a potential influx of administrative complaints. The presentation is being held as part of an inquiry, focusing specifically on a particular international treaty.
3 Speeches Analyzed
Opposition Stance
The main opponents are "the long plan party" (Eesti 200) and Kristen Michal's government, who are accused of rushing the historical Tidö deal and of political decay. The criticism is intense and focuses on the substance of the policy (violent criminals) and the procedural haste. The speaker clearly rejects the compromise, stating that they do not approve the agreement.
3 Speeches Analyzed
Collaboration Style
The speaker stressed the unified opposition, pointing out that the Social Democrats and numerous other colleagues also reject the Tidö Agreement. The cooperation style is cross-coalition, actively seeking support from other opposition parties on this specific matter.
3 Speeches Analyzed
Regional Focus
The regional focus is international (Sweden, the Netherlands, European prison reform) and national, but specific emphasis is placed on the impact on Tartu, where the prisoners would be housed, ironically calling it the "City of Good Thoughts." Earlier clients in Tartu (Serbian and Yugoslav war criminals) are also mentioned.
3 Speeches Analyzed
Economic Views
The economic views are contradictory: while the necessity of earning 30 million euros "in difficult times" is acknowledged, the government's tax policy is sharply criticized for burdening its own citizens (the car tax), even as it attempts to earn foreign money through risky transactions. It is emphasized that these funds are not being used to solve the problems facing the local population.
3 Speeches Analyzed
Social Issues
The primary social issue is security and immigration, expressing concern over "foreign violent individuals" (Muhammads, serial or passion killers) arriving from Sweden. It is stressed that these individuals are aware of their rights and create an administrative burden (foreign language complaints, Oriental languages) for the Estonian legal system.
3 Speeches Analyzed
Legislative Focus
The legislative focus is on opposing the ratification of the Tidö Agreement, questioning the voting requirement necessary for its approval (simple majority versus three-fourths). The speaker is an active opponent of this international treaty, which concerns the leasing of prison services.
3 Speeches Analyzed