Agenda Profile: Helle-Moonika Helme
First Reading of the Bill on Amendments to the Language Act (161 SE)
2024-01-24
15th Riigikogu, 3rd sitting, plenary session
Political Position
The political stance strongly advocates for the protection of Estonian-language services and the overall linguistic environment, stressing that this is both a constitutional right and a crucial matter of national culture. This position targets violators of the Language Act, particularly large corporations, who must face tangible and noticeable sanctions. The resolution of this issue is primarily viewed through stricter law enforcement and the increase of fine rates—an approach grounded in both policy and core values.
4 Speeches Analyzed
Topic Expertise
The speaker demonstrates expertise regarding the Language Act and its enforcement, detailing specific fine amounts and the rationale behind increasing them. They are familiar with the role of the Language Board (Keeleamet) and understand that the current low penalties are insufficient to motivate businesses with high turnovers. Detailed information is provided concerning the new fine limits (up to 50,000 euros and up to 5% of turnover) and their economic impact.
4 Speeches Analyzed
Rhetorical Style
The rhetorical style is concerned and urgent, emphasizing that the situation regarding Estonian-language service has deteriorated and is "getting out of hand." Both logical arguments (the economic impact of fines) and emotional examples from daily life (service at Maxima or in Otepää) are used. The speaker employs terms like the "fear factor" and "nudging" to describe the state's means of influence.
4 Speeches Analyzed
Activity Patterns
The discussion centers on presenting and defending a specific draft law (Bill 161 SE) during its first reading. It is noted that the bill's processing has been delayed, having been sitting in the committee since "quite some time ago." The speaker also referenced personal experiences regarding the lack of service available in Estonian.
4 Speeches Analyzed
Opposition Stance
The primary targets of criticism are large corporations and employers who disregard the Language Act because the fines imposed previously had no effect on them. Criticism is also aimed at the broader immigration policy and the education system, both of which are failing to adequately protect the linguistic environment. The criticism is policy- and procedure-based, focusing specifically on the ineffective enforcement of the law.
4 Speeches Analyzed
Collaboration Style
The speaker points to the cross-party consensus within the committee concerning the status of Estonian as the state language and the requirement for service in Estonian. However, he acknowledges that draft legislation of similar content but containing varying numerical data has been submitted, leaving the final decision on the penalty amount to the Riigikogu plenary and the committee.
4 Speeches Analyzed
Regional Focus
The regional focus is nationwide, highlighting that the issue of Estonian-language service is prevalent both in major urban centers and in regions traditionally considered Estonian-speaking (such as Otepää). Ida-Virumaa is also brought up, where the situation was previously even better than it currently is in some other parts of Estonia.
4 Speeches Analyzed
Economic Views
It supports strong regulatory intervention and high fines aimed at compelling high-turnover companies to comply with the law. It is believed that the current low fines fail to motivate businesses, and the penalty amount must be substantial, reaching up to 5% of turnover. The objective is to force companies to restructure their business operations in order to meet state requirements.
4 Speeches Analyzed
Social Issues
The main social issue is the protection and preservation of the Estonian language, which is viewed both as a constitutional right and the foundation of national culture. This topic is closely linked to immigration and the difficulties involved in transitioning to Estonian-language education, both of which are considered causes for the deterioration of the linguistic environment.
4 Speeches Analyzed
Legislative Focus
The legislative priority is the amendment of the Language Act (Draft Bill 161 SE) to raise the fine rates and establish turnover-based penalties for legal persons. The purpose of the bill is to ensure better protection of the Estonian language in the service sector and to grant the Language Inspectorate additional powers to carry out its duties. The speaker is the initiator and a strong proponent of this bill.
4 Speeches Analyzed