Agenda Profile: Helle-Moonika Helme
The situation in the country
2025-06-04
15th Riigikogu, 5th sitting, press briefing
Political Position
The political focus is currently on the poor state of the national economy, which is defined by runaway inflation and an economic downturn that has lasted 13 consecutive quarters. The speaker strongly opposes the government's tax policy, which involves raising 26 different taxes, alongside an unprecedented increase in excise duties and various fees. The criticism is primarily performance-based, highlighting the government's failure to manage the economy and protect citizens' purchasing power.
2 Speeches Analyzed
Topic Expertise
The speaker demonstrates knowledge of macroeconomics by discussing inflation, the decline in purchasing power, and the impact of taxation on real wages. Specific data is utilized (e.g., a 4.6% price increase, a 0.3% economic contraction), and references are made to the forecasts provided by Statistics Estonia, the Estonian Institute of Economic Research, and the Bank of Estonia. Particular emphasis is placed on the vicious cycle between taxes and inflation ("the snake eating its own tail").
2 Speeches Analyzed
Rhetorical Style
The rhetorical style is highly combative, critical, and urgent, underscoring the gravity of the situation (described using phrases like "very bad," and "tearful/sad"). Both logical arguments (a specific family example, economic data) and emotional accusations are leveled at the prime minister, specifically accusing them of using half-truths and deliberately lying. There is an insistent demand for a reality check.
2 Speeches Analyzed
Activity Patterns
The speeches were delivered on the same date as part of a parliamentary debate, addressed directly to the Prime Minister. A recurring pattern is noted in warning the government about the same issues ("we have told you about this here over and over again").
2 Speeches Analyzed
Opposition Stance
The main target is the Prime Minister and the government, who are facing fierce criticism not only for their policies (specifically tax packages) but also for a lack of ethics and honesty. They are accused of using half-truths and deliberately sugarcoating the situation, which makes the criticism personal and intense. Furthermore, the government's forecasts are widely considered inaccurate and unreliable.
2 Speeches Analyzed
Collaboration Style
There is no information regarding any willingness to cooperate; the rhetoric is strictly oppositional and accusatory, focused entirely on exposing the government's flaws.
2 Speeches Analyzed
Regional Focus
The focus is strictly national, addressing the overall state of the Estonian economy and its position in Europe (the so-called "red lantern" status). Specific regional or local issues are entirely absent.
2 Speeches Analyzed
Economic Views
Economic views are strongly opposed to tax increases, viewing them as the primary driver of inflation and economic recession. They stress the necessity of protecting purchasing power and real wages, highlighting, for instance, the losses that tax packages inflict on the average family. The text calls for a realistic fiscal policy and the encouragement of investment.
2 Speeches Analyzed
Social Issues
Social issues are framed in terms of their economic impact, focusing specifically on the drop in living standards and the financial losses that families (such as a two-child family) suffer due to tax hikes. The emphasis is placed squarely on family financial security and the soaring costs of everyday expenses (fuel, food, rent).
2 Speeches Analyzed
Legislative Focus
The legislative focus is centered on opposing the government's tax packages, which involve raising 26 different taxes, excise duties, and various fees. The speaker positions themselves as a strong critic and opponent of the government's fiscal policy initiatives.
2 Speeches Analyzed