Agenda Profile: Helle-Moonika Helme
The situation in the country
2024-05-29
15th Estonian Parliament, 3rd session, information briefing
Political Position
The political stance is strongly opposed to the government's actions, centering on the uncontrolled expenditure of state finances and the ideological push for a green transition. Key concerns include the shortcomings in Estonia's defense capability given the threat of war, and the increasing burden on taxpayers. The political framework is heavily performance-based and highly critical of the government's failure to address the daily worries of the populace.
5 Speeches Analyzed
Topic Expertise
The speaker demonstrates expertise in the financial analysis of the state budget and major infrastructure projects, specifically highlighting the massive cost increase of Rail Baltic—from an initial 2.4 billion to 30.7 billion euros. Priit Humal's article on profitability analyses is also referenced. Furthermore, issues concerning national defense and border security are discussed, stressing the lack of preparedness against an attack from the eastern neighbor.
5 Speeches Analyzed
Rhetorical Style
The rhetorical style is highly combative, accusatory, and pressing, emphasizing the daily concerns of the populace and the threat of war. Strong emotional appeals are employed, particularly regarding the Prime Minister’s personal responsibility and potential flight, alongside ironic examples concerning taxation (beards, bald heads). The tone is formal, but the substance is sharply confrontational.
5 Speeches Analyzed
Activity Patterns
The addresses were delivered in the Riigikogu during the question period directed at the Prime Minister, pointing to active involvement in parliamentary debates. The speaker also mentioned mingling with the public and listening to their concerns, which suggests active communication with constituents outside of parliament.
5 Speeches Analyzed
Opposition Stance
The primary target is the Prime Minister and the government, who face criticism for their personal detachment, poor handling of state finances, and the pursuit of ideological projects. Intense criticism is also aimed at the 30 years of actions by the Reform Party and other "major parties," particularly concerning the elimination of the border guard and the Rail Baltic project. The critique is both policy-driven and personal, accusing the Prime Minister of seeking a cushy position abroad.
5 Speeches Analyzed
Collaboration Style
Information regarding willingness to cooperate is missing; the speaker presents demands and accusations to the government, not proposals for compromise. The only reference to cooperation is a demand that the government use its influence within the European Union to halt Rail Baltic.
5 Speeches Analyzed
Regional Focus
The focus is clearly on the national level (Estonian economy, defense capability, state budget) and international relations (European Union projects, the Russian threat). The situation of Estonian entrepreneurs and taxpayers is emphasized, but there are no references to specific local regions.
5 Speeches Analyzed
Economic Views
Economic views are strongly fiscally conservative, opposing the state's reckless spending and the rising costs of governance. The speaker is pro-business, opposing the green transition as a drain on resources, and criticizes the Rail Baltic project due to its excessive cost and negative economic impact. There is a perceived risk that the government is merely enriching certain businessmen at the taxpayer's expense.
5 Speeches Analyzed
Social Issues
When addressing social issues, the main focus is placed primarily on the growing daily worries of the Estonian people and their fear of the future, particularly in light of the threat of war. The speaker notes that the government is failing to offer any solutions to these concerns.
5 Speeches Analyzed
Legislative Focus
The legislative focus is on opposing the government’s major projects (Rail Baltic, the green transition) and demanding the halting of Rail Baltic at the European Union level. Clarity is also sought regarding national defense and budget planning. Additionally, a procedural requirement was submitted concerning filming in the Riigikogu chamber.
5 Speeches Analyzed