Agenda Profile: Peeter Ernits

First Reading of the Draft Act on the Ratification of the Agreement between the Republic of Estonia and the Principality of Liechtenstein for the Avoidance of Double Taxation with respect to Taxes on Income and Capital and the Prevention of Tax Evasion and Tax Fraud, and the Protocol thereto (718 SE)

2025-10-13

15th Riigikogu, 6th Session, Plenary Sitting

Political Position
The political focus is directed towards legislative clarity and procedural consistency, comparing the current Liechtenstein agreement with the earlier Oman agreement. The speaker is demanding clarification from the minister regarding differences in the wording of the agreements' titles (e.g., the mention of double taxation) and concerning the classification of model agreements. The stance is moderately critical, emphasizing the necessity for policy-based clarity.

2 Speeches Analyzed
Topic Expertise
The speaker demonstrates awareness of the process of ratifying international tax treaties and is able to reference 63 previous similar agreements. He/She focuses on technical terminology, asking for clarification regarding the definition of a "model treaty" and its various types (Oman, Liechtenstein). The expertise is aimed at a comparative analysis of the wording and standardization of the treaties.

2 Speeches Analyzed
Rhetorical Style
The rhetorical style is direct and questioning, focusing on obtaining explanations from the minister. The speaker uses simple language ("Explain it to the common folk"), emphasizing the need to make complex legislation understandable to the public. The tone is formal, yet demanding, balancing logical argumentation with the desire for simplification.

2 Speeches Analyzed
Activity Patterns
The speaker is actively involved in legislative work, referencing last week's debate on the Oman treaty and continuing this week with the Liechtenstein treaty. This indicates regular participation in financial and ratification processes.

2 Speeches Analyzed
Opposition Stance
The challenge is directed at the government representative (the minister) regarding the imprecision of the legislation and the ambiguity of the standards. The criticism is procedural and focuses on demanding clarity, rather than being a personal attack.

2 Speeches Analyzed
Collaboration Style
The cooperation style is formal, requiring the minister to provide answers to legislative questions to ensure the proper handling of the draft legislation. There are no references to cross-party cooperation or the search for compromises.

2 Speeches Analyzed
Regional Focus
The focus is clearly international, addressing bilateral treaties with countries in Europe (Liechtenstein) and the Middle East (Oman). There is no mention of local or domestic regional issues.

2 Speeches Analyzed
Economic Views
The economic views focus on fiscal discipline and streamlining international taxation. The objective is to prevent double taxation on income and capital taxes, and to curb tax avoidance and fraud.

2 Speeches Analyzed
Social Issues
There is not enough data.

2 Speeches Analyzed
Legislative Focus
The legislative focus is on the draft legislation concerning the ratification of international tax treaties (Bill 718 SE). The speaker's role is that of a bill scrutinizer, demanding clarity regarding the standards and wording of the treaties before ratification.

2 Speeches Analyzed