Agenda Profile: Kalle Grünthal
First Reading of the Draft Act on the Amendment of the Estonian Public Broadcasting Act (165 SE)
2024-02-21
15th Riigikogu, 3rd session, plenary session
Political Position
Fierce opposition to the political imbalance and alleged propaganda at ERR (Estonian Public Broadcasting), which is seen as serving globalist interests. The MP stresses a value-based framework, defending traditional family values and criticizing the Prime Minister for blocking opposition drafts. The stance is highly critical and value-driven, centered on restoring media neutrality. Political balance is defined as the obligation to present counter-arguments and introduce the viewpoints of all political parties.
2 Speeches Analyzed
Topic Expertise
The representative has personal work experience at Estonian Television, which lends him authority regarding the internal workings and management structure of ERR. He demonstrates knowledge of legislation (specifically, similarities to the Commercial Code) and journalistic ethical principles (the right of reply, impartiality). He references his earlier experience in the current affairs editorial department under Mati Talvik to justify the necessity of a responsible editor.
2 Speeches Analyzed
Rhetorical Style
The tone is confrontational and accusatory, especially directed at the coalition and ERR, using accusations of propaganda and serving the deep state. The delegate employs both logical arguments (changing sections of the law) and emotional appeals, illustrating their views with personal experiences and well-known cases (Anna Levandi, biolabs). The style is detailed and includes historical references, such as a quote from Joseph Goebbels regarding the nature of propaganda.
2 Speeches Analyzed
Activity Patterns
The MP is an active initiator of draft legislation, presenting the bill under discussion for the second time in consecutive terms of the Riigikogu (Estonian Parliament). He actively participates in sessions, asking questions and defending his draft laws, and is prepared to defend his actions should they be deemed obstructionist. He also refers to his previous activities where he had to defend his positions in the media (the topic of biolabs).
2 Speeches Analyzed
Opposition Stance
Criticism is aimed at the governing coalition and the prime minister (Kaja Kallas), who are accused of blocking opposition bills and obstructing work. Strong criticism is also directed at the National Broadcasting (ERR), accusing it of political imbalance, biased coverage (denigrating Trump), and labeling opposition members as "Kremlin trolls." The criticism is both procedural and substantive.
2 Speeches Analyzed
Collaboration Style
The deputy is open to cooperation and proposed amendments, expressing the desire for the draft bill to advance to the committee stage and the second reading, believing that "no person is ever wise alone." He referenced previous support received during the last parliamentary term (Aadu Must, Rein Lang), demonstrating a willingness for cross-party dialogue. However, he views the current coalition as an obstacle to cooperation.
2 Speeches Analyzed
Regional Focus
The focus is primarily on the national (the ERR law) and international levels. International topics include coverage of the US elections, mass demonstrations in Europe (protesting globalist plans), and the issue of biological laboratories in Ukraine. Local or regional focus is not featured in the speeches.
2 Speeches Analyzed
Economic Views
The economic arguments focus primarily on ERR's management structure and financial discipline. The MP opposes paying compensation to board members when they resign or are dismissed for failing to perform their duties. He/She demands clearer criteria for defining management failures.
2 Speeches Analyzed
Social Issues
The MP takes a strong stance in defense of traditional family values, criticizing the bias shown by ERR in its coverage of same-sex marriage. He also addresses cancel culture, defending elite sports—using the Anna Levandi case as an example—as an environment that demands great sacrifice and suffering, comparing it to military training. He stresses the need to ensure both propriety and legality in media reporting.
2 Speeches Analyzed
Legislative Focus
The primary priority is the amendment of the Estonian Public Broadcasting Act (Draft Law 165 SE), the purpose of which is to ensure political balance and impartiality. The proposed changes involve establishing the right of reply, prohibiting media accusations prior to a court ruling, and clarifying the procedure for the recall and remuneration of members of the ERR management board. The MP is both the initiator and defender of this bill, having submitted it for the second time.
2 Speeches Analyzed