Agenda Profile: Kalle Grünthal
WHO Pandemic Agreement
2024-04-17
15th Riigikogu, 3rd session, information briefing
Political Position
The political stance is strongly directed against the government's actions concerning the WHO pandemic agreement negotiations. The primary focus is on the lack of transparency and the Ministry of Social Affairs' failure to uphold promises regarding the public disclosure of documents and the organization of public sessions. The position is clearly results-oriented, demanding accountability for the failed communication efforts and the availability of materials in Estonian.
2 Speeches Analyzed
Topic Expertise
The speaker demonstrates detailed knowledge of the schedule and procedures of the WHO pandemic accord negotiations, referencing specific dates (e.g., March, May, August 2022) and officials (Elen Ohov). The expertise focuses on identifying violations of bureaucratic oversight and transparency requirements, highlighting documented commitments.
2 Speeches Analyzed
Rhetorical Style
The rhetorical style is sharp, critical, and directly challenging, accusing the minister of dishonesty and breaking promises ("Why have promises been broken?"). Strong emotional expressions are used ("Total secrecy, total silence!"), and the logical appeal is emphasized by referencing documented promises and the names of officials.
2 Speeches Analyzed
Activity Patterns
The speaker's patterns of activity involve monitoring previous negotiations and sessions, as well as active political intervention. He/She mentions involvement in a letter sent to the WHO by 11 members of parliament (MPs), which expressed disagreement with Estonia's positions. He/She was also involved in a letter sent to the president by non-governmental organizations (NGOs).
2 Speeches Analyzed
Opposition Stance
The main opponents are the Ministry of Social Affairs and the minister, who is being intensely criticized for procedural violations, including breaking promises and the lack of an Estonian translation of the documents. Criticism is also directed at the president, who referred the matter to the social committee, thereby avoiding direct responsibility.
2 Speeches Analyzed
Collaboration Style
The collaborative style is evident in joint activities with other members of parliament (11 members sent a letter to the WHO) and non-governmental organizations, with whom they jointly appealed to the president. This demonstrates a readiness to form coalitions when opposing a specific issue and exerting pressure.
2 Speeches Analyzed
Regional Focus
The focus is divided between the national level (covering the Estonian government’s responsibility and the requirement for Estonian-language documents) and the international level (involving negotiations for the WHO pandemic agreement conducted via the European Commission). The necessity of informing the Estonian public is also highlighted.
2 Speeches Analyzed
Economic Views
Insufficient data
2 Speeches Analyzed
Social Issues
The primary social concern relates to public health governance and democratic transparency during the negotiation and conclusion of international agreements. Strong emphasis is placed on the inclusion of the public and NGOs, and the availability of Estonian-language documents is required, referencing the applicable Estonian language legislation.
2 Speeches Analyzed
Legislative Focus
The legislative focus is directed towards holding the executive branch accountable for the procedural opacity surrounding the negotiation of international treaties (the WHO pandemic agreement). The speaker acts as an overseer and critical opponent, demanding the fulfillment of the mandate granted by the Riigikogu and the organization of public sessions.
2 Speeches Analyzed