Agenda Profile: Peeter Ernits
Draft law amending the Money Laundering and Terrorist Financing Prevention Act and the International Sanctions Act (640 SE) - second reading
2025-06-17
15th Estonian Parliament, 5th session, plenary session
Political Position
The most prominent issue is the amendments to the Money Laundering and Terrorist Financing Prevention Act (640 SE), which are facing extremely strong opposition. The stance is value-based, focusing on protecting the rule of law and fundamental rights against the emergence of a totalitarian or preventive state. The content of the bill and its accelerated procedure are framed as an attempt by the government to seize power at a time when their support is low.
3 Speeches Analyzed
Topic Expertise
The speaker demonstrates expertise in legislative procedures by criticizing the absence of a policy intent document and the failure to involve key stakeholders. Knowledge concerning data protection and the mandates of security authorities is highlighted, referencing super-databases, the creation of artificial intelligence patterns, and the necessity of analyzing infringements on fundamental rights. The expansion of the powers of the Financial Intelligence Unit (FIU) to the level of a security authority is also mentioned.
3 Speeches Analyzed
Rhetorical Style
The style is extremely combative, urgent, and emotional, utilizing strong and alarmist descriptions ("the most disgusting draft law," "should be set on fire"). The speaker relies heavily on literary and historical analogies (Orwell's "1984," "Big Brother," Stalinism) for the purpose of fear-mongering, emphasizing the threat of totalitarianism. Appeals are directed at both logic (procedural errors) and emotions (impoverished and frightened people).
3 Speeches Analyzed
Activity Patterns
The speaker is actively participating in the Riigikogu session during the second reading of the draft law, demonstrating a clear focus on legislative work. Mention is made of a recent consultation with the Chancellor of Justice concerning the potential dangers of the bill currently being debated. The speaker also notes their nearly nine years of experience in parliament.
3 Speeches Analyzed
Opposition Stance
The main criticism is directed at the ruling "party group" and Kristen Michal, who is referred to as "Big Brother" and the leader of the party group. The criticism is intense and widespread, focusing both on the political motivation (the hasty seizure of power due to low support) and on procedural errors. Compromise is ruled out, with demands for the immediate scrapping of the bill.
3 Speeches Analyzed
Collaboration Style
The style of cooperation demonstrates a readiness to seek external support, highlighting the backing of the Chancellor of Justice when assessing the risks associated with the draft bill. At the same time, the speaker noted the absence of the Social Democrats and previous disagreements regarding the Competition Act, suggesting inconsistent support from partners outside the coalition.
3 Speeches Analyzed
Regional Focus
The focus is entirely on national legislation and its impact on the entire Estonian populace, who face the threat of state surveillance. There is no regional or local focus, which underscores the nationwide danger posed by the draft bill.
3 Speeches Analyzed
Economic Views
The economic perspectives are offered as context, pointing to public dissatisfaction, the continuous increase in taxes, rising prices, and general impoverishment. According to the speaker, these factors are the reason the government is rushing to impose totalitarian measures in an effort to retain power.
3 Speeches Analyzed
Social Issues
The primary social issue concerns the severe infringement of fundamental rights and privacy in the name of national security, which the speaker strongly opposes. The draft legislation is viewed as a drastic step toward a preventative state and totalitarian control, potentially resulting in innocent people being targeted due to errors within the super-database.
3 Speeches Analyzed
Legislative Focus
The main legislative focus is the opposition to the draft bill amending the Money Laundering and Terrorist Financing Prevention Act (640 SE). The speaker is a vocal and uncompromising opponent of the bill, demanding its swift rejection or destruction.
3 Speeches Analyzed