Agenda Profile: Helle-Moonika Helme
First reading of the draft resolution of the Riigikogu concerning the appointment of members of the Estonian National Broadcasting Council from recognised experts in the field of activity of the Estonian National Broadcasting. (643 OE)
2025-05-14
15th Riigikogu, 5th sitting, plenary session
Political Position
The political focus is on the Riigikogu's decision to appoint members to the ERR council, emphasizing the importance of selection criteria. The speaker positions themselves as a supporter of expertise-based selection, opposing a gender-based approach, yet simultaneously criticizing the coalition's choice, which resulted in the preference for male candidates. This position is both value-based (prioritizing expertise) and results-based (criticism of the coalition's actions).
2 Speeches Analyzed
Topic Expertise
Expertise has been demonstrated through knowledge of Riigikogu decisions and the candidate selection process, with the central issue being the application of the "expertise" criterion to public offices. The speaker claims that there were several good female experts on the list, indicating an awareness of the candidates' backgrounds.
2 Speeches Analyzed
Rhetorical Style
The style is confrontational and personal, utilizing direct addresses ("Liinakene") and rhetorical questions ("Show us how sincere you were!") to accuse the opponent and cast doubt on their sincerity. An ironic and mocking tone is employed (S2: "So sweet," "It's so nice to watch") to emphasize the opponent's uncomfortable situation and evasion.
2 Speeches Analyzed
Activity Patterns
There is not enough data.
2 Speeches Analyzed
Opposition Stance
The main adversary is a member of the coalition ("Liinakene"), who is being accused of inconsistency and hypocrisy regarding gender issues. The coalition is criticized for using their votes to elect male candidates, despite their rhetoric about supporting women. The criticism is intense and focuses specifically on individual voting behavior.
2 Speeches Analyzed
Collaboration Style
The speaker references the positions of another Riigikogu member (Reili Rand), demonstrating awareness of, or partial alignment with, other critics on the gender issue. Direct cooperation with the opposing side is absent; confrontation prevails, and explanations are demanded from the opponent.
2 Speeches Analyzed
Regional Focus
There is not enough data.
2 Speeches Analyzed
Economic Views
There is not enough data.
2 Speeches Analyzed
Social Issues
The discussion addresses gender equality and representation in public offices, with the speaker emphasizing that selection must be based on expertise, not gender. Simultaneously, criticism is leveled at the outcome, which excluded qualified women, and attention is drawn to how the selection criteria disparaged female candidates.
2 Speeches Analyzed
Legislative Focus
The legislative focus is narrowly directed at the Riigikogu draft resolution (643 OE) concerning the appointment of members to the council of the Estonian Public Broadcasting. The speaker is a critic of the process's outcome, concentrating on voting behavior and the application of selection criteria.
2 Speeches Analyzed