Agenda Profile: Kalle Grünthal
Draft law amending the Act on Obligations and, consequently, other laws (613 SE) – first reading
2025-04-22
15th Riigikogu, 5th session, plenary sitting
Political Position
The political position centers on criticizing the provisions of Bill 613 SE concerning discretionary power and the burden of proof. The speaker strongly opposes the vague legal language, which, in their assessment, creates the potential for unequal treatment of individuals. The focus is policy- and value-based, emphasizing the principles of the rule of law and clarity in the application of the law. They warn that implementing discretionary power in this manner leads down a "very slippery slope."
2 Speeches Analyzed
Topic Expertise
The speaker demonstrates detailed expertise in the field of the law of obligations and legislation, focusing on specific sections (LOA § 7101 subsection 21) and legal concepts such as the burden of proof and discretionary power. He/She demands a precise clarification of the draft law's criteria in order to define what constitutes an "unreasonable burden" for the consumer.
2 Speeches Analyzed
Rhetorical Style
The rhetorical style is analytical, critical, and cautious, warning the proponent against venturing onto a "very slippery slope." The speaker employs formal and technical language, focusing on logical arguments and highlighting the dangers of ambiguous discretion when applying the law equally. Emotional appeals are absent; the emphasis is placed on the practical and legal consequences of implementing the law.
2 Speeches Analyzed
Activity Patterns
Data is scarce.
2 Speeches Analyzed
Opposition Stance
The criticism is directed at the rapporteur of the draft bill and the content of the legislation itself, which grants excessive discretionary power. The opposition is intense and principled, as the speaker sees a danger in individuals being treated differently depending on whether they are considered an "unpleasant person." The criticism targets both the procedural and substantive deficiencies of the law.
2 Speeches Analyzed
Collaboration Style
Data is scarce.
2 Speeches Analyzed
Regional Focus
The focus is on national legislation and the uniform implementation of legal norms within Estonia, specifically addressing amendments to the Law of Obligations Act. There is no regional or international focus.
2 Speeches Analyzed
Economic Views
There are no direct economic implications, but the topic concerns consumer protection and the burden of proof in contractual relations. The speaker seeks to protect the consumer from an unreasonably onerous burden of proof.
2 Speeches Analyzed
Social Issues
The primary social concern is ensuring equal treatment in the application of the law, warning that vague discretionary power allows individuals to be treated differently. The emphasis is on protecting citizens' rights from subjective official authority.
2 Speeches Analyzed
Legislative Focus
The legislative focus is on the amendments to the Law of Obligations Act (Bill 613 SE), where the speaker is acting as a critical scrutinizer. He/She demands the precise definition of the law's provisions in order to prevent unequal and subjective application, thus opposing the bill in its current form.
2 Speeches Analyzed