Agenda Profile: Varro Vooglaid
Second Reading of the Draft Act (344 SE) on the Amendment of the Riigikogu Election Act and Related Amendment of Other Acts
2024-04-17
15th Riigikogu, 3rd session, plenary sitting
Political Position
The political stance is highly critical of how the Riigikogu's procedural rules are being implemented, particularly concerning the bundling of amendments, which is deemed both illogical and arbitrary. Furthermore, the speaker expresses strong opposition to the current system of internet voting, citing low public confidence (nearly 40% of citizens do not trust it) and demanding that this trust be restored. These positions are strongly principled, focusing on the standards of the rule of law and logic.
6 Speeches Analyzed
Topic Expertise
The speaker demonstrates detailed knowledge of the Riigikogu Rules of Procedure and Internal Rules Act, citing specific sections (e.g., § 102 subsection 2) and procedural requirements. Their expertise is evident on the topic of electoral systems and internet voting, where they utilize survey results (nearly 40% lack of confidence) and comparisons with the electoral systems of other EU member states.
6 Speeches Analyzed
Rhetorical Style
The rhetorical style is demanding, insistent, and critical, emphasizing the necessity of receiving a "rational and understandable answer" as well as written criteria. The speaker relies heavily on logical and legal appeals, labeling the opponent's positions an "error against elementary school logic." The tone is formal and focuses on procedural correctness.
6 Speeches Analyzed
Activity Patterns
The speaker’s pattern of activity is characterized by active participation in the session, submitting brief, yet repetitive and persistent questions concerning both procedural rules and substantive matters. There are indications of difficulty securing speaking time, necessitating repeated intervention.
6 Speeches Analyzed
Opposition Stance
The primary objection is aimed at the individuals or the commission overseeing the proceedings, criticizing their decisions regarding the consolidation of amendments as arbitrary and lacking standards. Criticism is also leveled at the government's stance, which dismisses the low public confidence in the electoral system, and demands that the issue be addressed seriously.
6 Speeches Analyzed
Collaboration Style
Insufficient data.
6 Speeches Analyzed
Regional Focus
The focus is strictly on national legislative procedures (the Riigikogu Rules of Procedure and Internal Rules Act) and the nationwide electoral system. The speaker uses other European Union member states as a point of comparison, but there is no local or regional focus.
6 Speeches Analyzed
Economic Views
Insufficient data.
6 Speeches Analyzed
Social Issues
The main social issue is public trust in the electoral system, which the speaker considers extremely low (nearly 40% do not trust it). This situation neither increases voter turnout nor makes elections cheaper. The speaker calls for the restoration of confidence to prevent the problem from worsening.
6 Speeches Analyzed
Legislative Focus
The legislative focus is on the draft bill (344 SE) concerning the amendment of the Riigikogu Election Act. The speaker is acting as a strong opponent of the bill, focusing on procedural rules (the bundling of amendments) and improving the reliability of the electoral system.
6 Speeches Analyzed