Agenda Profile: Helle-Moonika Helme
Inquiry Regarding the Threat to the Independence of Press Publications (No. 345)
2024-01-08
15th Riigikogu, 3rd sitting, plenary session.
Political Position
The political position is strongly critical of the content produced by the state-funded media outlet (ETV+), which glorifies the Russian/Soviet way of life and history. The speaker questions the government’s assurances regarding the media’s independence, demanding state intervention to prevent the funding of foreign propaganda using Estonian state resources. This position is clearly value-driven and focuses on the ideological aspect of national security.
1 Speeches Analyzed
Topic Expertise
The speaker demonstrates knowledge regarding the content and programs of the national broadcaster's Russian-language channel (ETV+), especially the New Year's Eve program, referencing specific critical reviews. The expertise focuses on the ideological direction of the media, the funding, and the hierarchical organization within the national broadcaster.
1 Speeches Analyzed
Rhetorical Style
The rhetorical style is formal, direct, and sharply interrogative, beginning by casting doubt on the minister's previous assurances. Emotionally charged terms and references ("Russian-Soviet channel," "state propaganda") are employed to underscore the gravity of the situation and demand answers.
1 Speeches Analyzed
Activity Patterns
The pattern of activity demonstrates participation in the Riigikogu interpellation process, where clarifying and critical questions are posed regarding the government's actions in the field of media oversight.
1 Speeches Analyzed
Opposition Stance
The confrontation is directed against the government and the ministry's inaction regarding the control of content and the ideological direction of state-funded media. The criticism is politically intense and focuses on the government's accountability for the use of public funds.
1 Speeches Analyzed
Collaboration Style
Not enough data.
1 Speeches Analyzed
Regional Focus
The focus is on national media policy (public broadcasting) and its ideological influence, particularly concerning the Russian-speaking audience served by ETV+. The concern revolves around the heroization of Russian history and the dissemination of Soviet-style content within Estonia.
1 Speeches Analyzed
Economic Views
Economic considerations concern the expediency of state resources (funding) and require that public money does not support content that is ideologically questionable or contrary to the interests of the Estonian state.
1 Speeches Analyzed
Social Issues
Regarding social issues, the media's role in shaping historical memory and ideological direction is emphasized, standing against the heroization of the Russian system and Soviet history on the state channel.
1 Speeches Analyzed
Legislative Focus
The legislative focus is on government oversight and the submission of inquiries (or interpellations), aimed at compelling the ministry to explain and, if necessary, amend its policy regarding the financing of the national broadcaster and the influencing of its content.
1 Speeches Analyzed