Agenda Profile: Kalle Grünthal
First Reading of the Riigikogu Draft Statement (420 AE) "On Declaring the Moscow Patriarchate an Institution Supporting the Military Aggression of the Russian Federation"
2024-05-02
15th Riigikogu, 3rd session, plenary session
Political Position
The political position is strongly opposed to the Riigikogu's draft statement which declares the Moscow Patriarchate an institution supporting aggression. This opposition is framed in legal and procedural terms, emphasizing that Parliament is exceeding its mandate and citing a lack of evidence. Furthermore, the necessity of protecting the feelings of Orthodox believers and the position of the church is highlighted.
4 Speeches Analyzed
Topic Expertise
The speaker demonstrates strong legal expertise, focusing on sections 12 and 22 of the Constitution of the Republic of Estonia, which address the presumption of innocence and the necessity of a court ruling for conviction. Furthermore, knowledge of the Riigikogu’s procedural issues is evident, demanding the existence of supplementary documents and a legal basis.
4 Speeches Analyzed
Rhetorical Style
The rhetorical style is a blend of legal precision and sharp criticism, directed particularly at the session chair, who is accused of being a "blockhead" and employing "steamroller tactics." The appeals are both logical (referencing the Constitution) and emotional (offending the feelings of the Orthodox faithful), demanding courtesy and procedural correctness.
4 Speeches Analyzed
Activity Patterns
The speaker was active during the first reading of the bill held on May 2, submitting repeated questions and statements that focused on the lawfulness of the procedure and the availability of evidence. The pattern of activity is aimed at procedural obstruction and delay.
4 Speeches Analyzed
Opposition Stance
The primary opposition is aimed at the initiators of the draft bill and the chairman of the session, Lauri Hussar, who is being criticized personally and accused of employing undemocratic "steamroller tactics." The criticism focuses on procedural violations and the demand that the bill's proceedings be halted today.
4 Speeches Analyzed
Collaboration Style
Direct cooperation is not mentioned, but reference is made to Archbishop Viilma's statement, which called for sitting down at the table and holding discussions, hinting at a preference for compromise and debate before political decisions are adopted. Within the Riigikogu, the speaker prefers procedural confrontation.
4 Speeches Analyzed
Regional Focus
The focus is on national legislation and the international/religious issue (the Moscow Patriarchate and Russian aggression), with no references to local or regional matters.
4 Speeches Analyzed
Economic Views
Insufficient information.
4 Speeches Analyzed
Social Issues
Regarding social issues, strong emphasis is placed on the offense caused to the feelings of the Orthodox and the Church by the handling of this current draft bill. The speaker demands courtesy and respect for religious differences, also citing Article 12 of the Constitution, which prohibits the incitement of religious hatred.
4 Speeches Analyzed
Legislative Focus
The legislative focus is centered on opposing Draft Bill 420 AE (Declaring the Moscow Patriarchate a supporter of aggression). The speaker is on the opposing side, demanding the suspension of the proceedings and a review of the bill's legal foundation, based on the provisions of the Constitution.
4 Speeches Analyzed