Session Profile: Kalle Grünthal
15th Riigikogu, 5th session, plenary session
2025-02-25
Political Position
The political focus is the strong opposition to amending the constitution in a way that would extend voting rights in local elections to EU and NATO citizens. The speaker deems this amendment dangerous and foolish, stressing that the constitution is the bedrock of the state and is not something to be trifled with. He criticizes the use of political situations as a pretext for constitutional change and maintains that the amendment is a complete failure. This position is strongly value-based, centered on the preservation of the Estonian language and culture.
4 Speeches Analyzed
Topic Expertise
The speaker demonstrates knowledge of constitutional law, referencing the Constitution's role as a general norm and citing the position held by Chancellor of Justice Ülle Madise. They also present geopolitical and strategic arguments (e.g., the case of Turkey) concerning the potential dangers of expanding suffrage. Furthermore, they demand a detailed description of Russia's influence activities, indicating a desire to delve deeply into the subject matter.
4 Speeches Analyzed
Rhetorical Style
The style is highly confrontational and aggressive, featuring personal remarks regarding the presenter's appearance, intellect, and behavior. The speaker employs emotional and occasionally inappropriate language ("What the hell is that?", "playing dumb") and repeatedly demands detailed explanations, accusing the presenter of dodging the question. The overall tone is critical and condemnatory, stressing the lack of substance.
4 Speeches Analyzed
Activity Patterns
The speaker is highly active during the plenary session, participating intensely in the debate concerning the Act on the Amendment of the Constitution. Their pattern of activity involves repeatedly questioning the rapporteur and requesting extra time to present their positions. They mention pressing the button on the Riigikogu apparatus, which demonstrates active involvement in the question round.
4 Speeches Analyzed
Opposition Stance
The main opposition is directed at the bill's rapporteur (Mr. Terras) and the bill's proponents, who are criticized for failing to provide a substantive answer and for unparliamentary behavior. The criticism is intense and personal, accusing the rapporteur of wasting time and "playing dumb," and labeling his excuses as "pathetic." He also criticizes the Reform Party's earlier stances regarding visa freedom.
4 Speeches Analyzed
Collaboration Style
No data available
4 Speeches Analyzed
Regional Focus
The focus is on the national level (Estonian constitution, language, and culture) and the international/geopolitical level (Russia's influence, NATO member states, the EU). It analyzes the strategic importance of the Baltic Sea and cites Turkey, a NATO member state, as an example of a potential demographic threat to Estonia. Specific local or regional Estonian topics are absent.
4 Speeches Analyzed
Economic Views
No data available
4 Speeches Analyzed
Social Issues
Among the social issues addressed is concern over the threat of foreign demographic invasion, citing as an example the potential influx of Turkish citizens, which could marginalize Estonians in local decision-making. Furthermore, he/she refers negatively to the COVID-19 era, criticizing the societal lockdowns and mandatory vaccinations as examples of government overreach.
4 Speeches Analyzed
Legislative Focus
The primary legislative focus is opposing the draft law amending the constitution, which addresses the right to vote in local elections. The speaker is a staunch opponent of the bill, considering it legally unsound and destructive to the foundations of the state. He emphasizes that specific countries should not be written into the constitution, as the political situation is subject to change.
4 Speeches Analyzed