Agenda Profile: Peeter Ernits
First Reading of the Draft Act on the Accession to the International Convention for the Protection of All Persons from Enforced Disappearance (681 SE)
2025-10-09
The 15th Riigikogu, 6th Session, Plenary Sitting
Political Position
The speaker approaches the convention (681 SE) cautiously and from a value-based perspective, calling it a "werewolf bill" that is inapplicable in the Estonian cultural space. Although he doubts its necessity, he supports the procedural advancement of the bill based on consensus, in order to demonstrate Estonia's membership in the international community. His main concern is whether the bill is connected to immigration from countries where such crimes are prevalent.
2 Speeches Analyzed
Topic Expertise
The speaker demonstrates knowledge regarding the history of the convention (the first attempt was in 2013, the translation cost 150 euros) and its geographical scope (Iraq, Sri Lanka). He draws comparisons with the Estonian Penal Code, noting that while it contains similar concepts (such as deprivation of liberty or unlawful imprisonment), they are not exactly identical. His analysis relies on the detailed discussions held by the committee and the explanations provided by the minister.
2 Speeches Analyzed
Rhetorical Style
The rhetorical style is informative, yet ironic and skeptical, utilizing vernacular expressions such as "werewolf bill" and "reheating." It balances detailed procedural reporting (committee members, dates) with cultural and anecdotal examples (the story of Jüri and Liisa) to emphasize the theoretical nature of the draft legislation. The tone is generally conversational and informal.
2 Speeches Analyzed
Activity Patterns
The speaker's pattern of activity involves active participation in the committee's work, including the September 23 session, where the draft bill was discussed extensively and in great detail. He/She was appointed as the rapporteur for the first reading of the bill, which indicates an active role in the legislative process.
2 Speeches Analyzed
Opposition Stance
There is no direct confrontation with political opponents, as consensus was reached in the committee. However, the speaker expresses doubt regarding the relevance of the draft bill, suggesting that it addresses problems alien to the Estonian cultural sphere.
2 Speeches Analyzed
Collaboration Style
The style of cooperation is consensual and procedurally correct, stressing that all decisions made within the committee (including placing the draft bill on the agenda and appointing the rapporteur) were unanimous. He/She specifically names the committee members (e.g., Hanimägi, Karilaid, Pikhof, Randpere) and the Minister of Justice, with whom the discussion took place.
2 Speeches Analyzed
Regional Focus
The focus is international, highlighting the prevalence of enforced disappearance in Iraq, Sri Lanka, and Congo. Simultaneously, the question is being raised whether the revival of the convention is linked to increased immigration from those countries and the resulting cultural conflicts in Estonia.
2 Speeches Analyzed
Economic Views
Economic perspectives are not addressed, apart from a reference to the low cost of handling the draft bill (150 euros for the translation), which demonstrates an awareness of procedural expenses.
2 Speeches Analyzed
Social Issues
The speaker addresses social issues within the context of immigration and cultural conflicts, citing examples of forced disappearance within the family (the Jüri/Liisa example), a practice which is widespread in other cultural spheres. He/She expresses hope that such a custom will not spread in Estonia.
2 Speeches Analyzed
Legislative Focus
The legislative focus is on the ratification of the draft act on accession to the international convention (681 SE). The speaker focuses on the technical side of the draft, its definitions, and the consensual execution of the procedure, while serving as the rapporteur.
2 Speeches Analyzed