Agenda Profile: Kalle Grünthal
First reading of the draft resolution of the Riigikogu "Proposal to the Republic of Estonia's Government to abandon the implementation of the Rail Baltic project in Estonia and to withdraw from all international agreements related to the project" (650 OE)
2025-09-24
Fifteenth Riigikogu, sixth sitting, plenary sitting.
Political Position
The political stance is firmly focused on protecting national independence and sovereignty, stressing the perpetual validity of Article 1 of the Constitution. The speaker forcefully opposes the continuation of the Rail Baltic project, arguing that it is both economically detrimental and infringes upon Estonia's sovereign decision-making power. The narrative is clearly value-based and centered on constitutionality, raising doubts about the state's independence in the context of international agreements.
2 Speeches Analyzed
Topic Expertise
The speaker demonstrates knowledge of constitutional issues by citing Article 1 concerning independence, and also of economic arguments, highlighting the cost of Rail Baltic increasing several times over and the lack of any economic benefit. Additionally, specific knowledge of social welfare procedures is used as an example, referencing the Ministry of Social Affairs’ attempt to obtain medicines via the EU decision-making procedure.
2 Speeches Analyzed
Rhetorical Style
The rhetorical style is critical and questioning, challenging the status of Estonian independence. The appeals are primarily logical, relying on constitutional provisions and economic facts (incorrect cost calculation). The tone is formal, addressing the rapporteur, but sharp and demanding in substance.
2 Speeches Analyzed
Activity Patterns
The speaker highlighted active involvement in the work of the committees, specifically mentioning the Social Affairs Committee meeting held yesterday. This demonstrates rapid responsiveness and the ability to connect with current events within the framework of parliamentary duties.
2 Speeches Analyzed
Opposition Stance
The opposition is aimed at the initiators of the Rail Baltic project, who are accused of flawed economic calculations and causing damage to the state. There is also sharp criticism of the government's actions and the implementation of the European Union's decision-making procedure, which has led to the unconstitutional surrender of decision-making power.
2 Speeches Analyzed
Collaboration Style
Insufficient data.
2 Speeches Analyzed
Regional Focus
The focus is on the national level (Estonian independence and the constitution) and on international agreements (Rail Baltic, European Union decision-making procedures). There is no emphasis placed on specific regional or local issues.
2 Speeches Analyzed
Economic Views
The economic perspective is heavily focused on terminating detrimental projects and ensuring fiscal responsibility. It is stressed that the cost of Rail Baltic has increased many times over, and the project will only result in significant losses. Therefore, canceling the contract is an economically sound decision that "sensible economic actors" should pursue.
2 Speeches Analyzed
Social Issues
Social issues are addressed merely as an example of the loss of national decision-making authority (specifically, the procurement of pharmaceuticals through the Ministry of Social Affairs based on EU regulations). There are no stated positions regarding traditional social issues.
2 Speeches Analyzed
Legislative Focus
The legislative focus is clearly directed toward supporting the Riigikogu draft resolution (650 OE), which aims to abandon the Rail Baltic project and withdraw from the associated agreements. The speaker is a strong proponent of this initiative, justifying it by citing the need to resolve an unconstitutional situation.
2 Speeches Analyzed