Agenda Profile: Helle-Moonika Helme
Chair implementation
2025-09-04
15th Riigikogu, extraordinary session of the Riigikogu
Political Position
The focus is on sharp criticism of government activities and ministerial accountability, particularly concerning education, justice, and social policy. There is strong opposition to the school reform, the renting out of prison places, and the ideological influencing of gender identity within the population register. The political framework is strongly value-based, consistently challenging the government's actions and demanding constant answers and explanations.
28 Speeches Analyzed
Topic Expertise
Demonstrates a deep awareness of the Riigikogu's rules of procedure and working arrangements, frequently submitting proposals to amend the agenda and challenging the decisions of the Bureau. Possesses thorough knowledge of the critical issues in the education sector, such as inclusive education, teacher workload, and the closure of rural schools. Poses detailed questions regarding the state budget and tax policy, demanding answers from the Prime Minister that go beyond standard, boilerplate responses.
28 Speeches Analyzed
Rhetorical Style
The tone is predominantly critical, demanding, and occasionally ironic, particularly towards the Riigikogu Board and ministers. Formal language is employed, though the speaker interjects rhetorical questions and strong expressions ("in the categorical imperative") to critique the government's actions. The primary focus is on submitting well-argued questions and demanding public information.
28 Speeches Analyzed
Activity Patterns
Very active during the implementation phase of Riigikogu sessions, repeatedly submitting motions opposing changes to the agenda, the withdrawal of items, and the extension of session time. Interpellations are regularly submitted on behalf of the faction to various ministers (Kallas, Pakosta, Taro). They also address security issues concerning Riigikogu members.
28 Speeches Analyzed
Opposition Stance
The primary opponents are the government ministers (Kallas, Pakosta, Riisalo, Taro) and the ruling coalition. The criticism targets both political decisions (such as the renting of prison spaces and the school reform) and procedural matters (including the drafting of the agenda and the anticipation of no-confidence motions). It demands that the opposing side justify their resistance to EKRE's proposals, rather than merely stating their opposition.
28 Speeches Analyzed
Collaboration Style
It focuses on cooperation within its own faction (EKRE), submitting interpellations on behalf of several MPs. There is no clear indication of a readiness to compromise with other factions; rather, opposition is emphasized (e.g., to extending the session or to proposals made by other factions). It attempts to come to the government's aid with a tax reduction bill, but this is rather a rhetorical maneuver.
28 Speeches Analyzed
Regional Focus
Although most of the issues discussed are nationwide, emphasis is placed on the negative effect of closing rural schools, and support is offered to rural micro and small enterprises through the proposed VAT legislation. The text also mentions the funding of the Haapsalu railway during the EKREIKE government, highlighting earlier regional investments.
28 Speeches Analyzed
Economic Views
They support lowering the VAT on domestic food items (potatoes, fruits, and vegetables). The stated goal is to support small enterprises in rural areas and boost overall revenue flowing into the state budget. They criticize the government's fiscal policy and demand detailed answers from the Prime Minister regarding the state budget, rather than just a vague promise like "we will put the country in order."
28 Speeches Analyzed
Social Issues
Strong opposition to the implementation of inclusive education and school reform, which burdens teachers and poses a threat to children with special needs. It opposes ideological influence regarding gender identity issues (such as changing names in the population register) and is categorically opposed to importing criminals into Estonian prisons. It also raises concerns about the draft Child Protection Act regarding the allowance for pedophiles to work with children.
28 Speeches Analyzed
Legislative Focus
The primary focus is on submitting interpellations to ministers (Education, Justice, Interior Ministry) and making procedural changes to the organization of work within the Riigikogu. They initiated Draft Amendment 596 to the Value Added Tax Act regarding the taxation of domestic foodstuffs, but later withdrew it from the agenda. They are also engaged in criticizing the practice of placing important legislative drafts (such as the Employment Contracts Act) at the very end of the agenda.
28 Speeches Analyzed