Agenda Profile: Andre Hanimägi
Draft law amending the Constitution of the Republic of Estonia (536 SE) – first reading
2024-11-20
15th Riigikogu, 4th session, plenary sitting
Political Position
The political focus is currently on a constitutional amendment bill, prompted by Russia's aggression, which seeks to restrict the voting rights of third-country nationals in local elections. The speaker supports the amendment but strongly stresses the need to preserve voting rights for stateless persons (holders of the 'grey passport'), viewing this as a matter of legal certainty and inclusion. This position is value-based and underscores the importance of rationality and the need for consensus.
2 Speeches Analyzed
Topic Expertise
The speaker demonstrates expertise in constitutional law and the regulation of electoral rights, referencing the Venice Commission guidelines concerning the voting rights of permanent residents. Technical terms such as "citizenship threshold" are employed, and a specific figure for stateless persons (approx. 60,000) is provided.
2 Speeches Analyzed
Rhetorical Style
The rhetorical style is rational, deliberate, and constructive, emphasizing the need to avoid emotionalism when amending the constitution. The speaker employs logical arguments and legal terminology, calling for compromise and the search for consensus in order to calm and stabilize society.
2 Speeches Analyzed
Activity Patterns
The speaker is an active participant in the ongoing Riigikogu debate concerning the constitutional amendment, requesting additional time to present their views more thoroughly. It is noted that the discussion is intense, both within the chamber and in society at large.
2 Speeches Analyzed
Opposition Stance
Direct criticism is leveled against the alternative draft amendment to the constitution, which provides for granting voting rights to citizens of third countries through international agreements, highlighting its legal complexity and lack of legal clarity. This stands in opposition to the principle of national basis, emphasizing that any restriction must be citizenship-based.
2 Speeches Analyzed
Collaboration Style
The speaker stresses the importance of constructiveness and a readiness to compromise, viewing these as the bedrock of democracy, particularly concerning constitutional amendments. There is a call to support the draft bill, which has significant common ground, and which must not be treated as a mere decision of current political maneuvering.
2 Speeches Analyzed
Regional Focus
The focus is on the national level (amendment of the Estonian Constitution) and the international level, addressing security threats (Russia and Belarus) and referencing the standards of the Council of Europe (Venice Commission).
2 Speeches Analyzed
Economic Views
Insufficient data.
2 Speeches Analyzed
Social Issues
The main social issue is the retention of voting rights for stateless persons (holders of the grey passport), emphasizing their contribution to society and their commitment to Estonia (paying taxes, being born here). The question is also being raised regarding what the state could do to ensure the number of stateless people decreases more rapidly.
2 Speeches Analyzed
Legislative Focus
The legislative focus is currently on the first reading of the draft act amending the Constitution of the Republic of Estonia (536 SE), the objective of which is to establish a citizenship requirement for local elections. The speaker is a supporter of the bill and wishes for it to enter into force before the next local elections in order to create a clear framework for defining the scope of voting rights.
2 Speeches Analyzed