Agenda Profile: Kalle Grünthal
Draft law (583 SE) for the second reading on accession to the Optional Protocol to the Convention on the Elimination of All Forms of Discrimination Against Women and approval of amendment to Article 20(1) of the Convention.
2025-04-23
15th Riigikogu, 5th session, plenary session
Political Position
The political stance is fiercely oppositional, centered on utilizing draft legislation (583 SE) to criticize the government (the Reform Party) and halt its "steamroller" tactics. One speaker voiced profound concern regarding the constitutionality of the convention's optional protocol, arguing that it undermines the finality of Supreme Court rulings. The position is driven primarily by values (constitutional principles) and by results (obstructing the government's actions).
3 Speeches Analyzed
Topic Expertise
The presenters demonstrate knowledge of the three-tiered structure of the Estonian court system and constitutional principles, questioning the suitability of international rights of appeal. They also have an overview of international conventions and complaint protocols, referencing both the conventions on women's rights (CEDAW) and children's rights. One presenter mentioned specific legislation, such as the Employment Contracts Act.
3 Speeches Analyzed
Rhetorical Style
The rhetorical style is questioning, skeptical, and at times combative, employing powerful metaphors—such as "steamroller"—to characterize the government's actions. It utilizes both logical argumentation (specifically, the hierarchy of the judicial system) and strategic, emotional appeals (defending the rights of women and children against the Reform Party). One speech concludes with a direct call for women and children to seize the opportunity presented to them.
3 Speeches Analyzed
Activity Patterns
The speakers refer to their active participation in the work of the Social Committee, mentioning the recent visit of a children's delegation and the report submitted to the UN. Reference is also made to earlier legislative discussions regarding the complaints protocol on children's rights. This demonstrates consistent involvement in both the legislative process and the work of the committees.
3 Speeches Analyzed
Opposition Stance
The primary adversary is the ruling coalition, particularly the Reform Party, which faces intense criticism both for steamrolling the opposition and for its socio-political decisions (the reduction of child benefits). The criticism is intense and policy-based, with the aim of calling the government to order using an international mechanism. No willingness to compromise is being expressed; instead, new methods of obstruction are being sought.
3 Speeches Analyzed
Collaboration Style
Not enough data
3 Speeches Analyzed
Regional Focus
The focus is primarily national (Estonian legislation and government) and international (the UN right to petition). Nevertheless, examples of local issues are provided, such as the closure of the Metsaküla and Tapa schools, to illustrate the potential application of the right to petition in cases where local rights have been violated.
3 Speeches Analyzed
Economic Views
The economic perspectives become apparent through criticism of social policy, specifically opposing the Reform Party government’s decisions to reduce or eliminate child benefits. This signals support for social welfare and ensuring that families can maintain their livelihood using public resources.
3 Speeches Analyzed
Social Issues
A key social theme is the elimination of discrimination against women and the expansion of their right to seek redress, but this is balanced by the issue of protecting men's rights and the lack of their own right to appeal. Also crucial is the well-being of children and families, especially given the reduction in child benefits.
3 Speeches Analyzed
Legislative Focus
The legislative focus is on the second reading of the draft act (583 SE) concerning accession to the Optional Protocol to the Convention on the Elimination of All Forms of Discrimination Against Women. The speakers are critics of the bill who question its constitutionality, or strategic opponents who see it as a new opportunity to obstruct the government.
3 Speeches Analyzed