Session Profile: Helle-Moonika Helme
15th Riigikogu, 3rd sitting, plenary session.
2024-01-15
Political Position
The speaker adopts a strong, value-driven position against mass immigration and the resulting threat to the nation-state, stressing that Estonians could rapidly become a minority in their own historical homeland. Political priorities include protecting Estonian-language education from Russification, shielding the state budget from immigration-related costs, and opposing expensive and impractical mega-projects such as Rail Baltic. These positions are overwhelmingly critical of the government’s actions and are characterized by strong opposition.
15 Speeches Analyzed
Topic Expertise
The speaker demonstrates a high level of detail on the topic of immigration and demographics, citing specific PPA data regarding the number of applicants for fixed-term residence permits and temporary protection (e.g., 36,000 and 50,739). They are also up-to-date on the figures for defense sector equipment (the number of artillery systems, K9 arrival times) and the cost of the Rail Baltic project, along with its associated administrative expenses. On the subject of education, they reference the opinions of educational scientists concerning assimilation percentages.
15 Speeches Analyzed
Rhetorical Style
The speaker adopts a combative, urgent, and sharply critical tone, particularly aimed at the prime minister, whom they accuse of dismissiveness toward questions and outright dishonesty ("Read my lips!"). Emotional imagery is employed (such as giving away the store or rolling in with a tank) and irony (the "soda machine" reference) to underscore the perilous nature of the government's actions. Furthermore, the speaker utilizes direct evidence, specifically by presenting an audio clip concerning the Town Hall Square incident.
15 Speeches Analyzed
Activity Patterns
The speaker actively participates in the plenary session, submitting inquiries (some of which were already filed in May) and repeatedly posing follow-up questions to the Prime Minister. They also make procedural proposals concerning the conduct of the session, criticizing the Prime Minister's manner of response.
15 Speeches Analyzed
Opposition Stance
The primary opponent is the government, and particularly the prime minister, who faces criticism regarding both policy matters (immigration, Rail Baltic, defense capability) and personal conduct (rushing through answers, displaying disrespect). The speaker connects the interests of businessmen affiliated with the Reform Party to the construction and profits of the nuclear power plant, suggesting corruption. The criticism is intense and uncompromising, casting doubt on the credibility of the prime minister’s promises.
15 Speeches Analyzed
Collaboration Style
There is insufficient data. The speaker addresses colleagues and EKRE MPs, but there are no references to cooperation with other political parties, a willingness to compromise, or bilateral efforts.
15 Speeches Analyzed
Regional Focus
The focus is predominantly on national and international topics, such as immigration from CIS countries, defense policy related to Ukraine, and nationwide infrastructure projects (Rail Baltic). Specific locations are also mentioned, including Tallinn's Town Hall Square and the Olkiluoto nuclear power plant in Finland.
15 Speeches Analyzed
Economic Views
The speaker is fiscally conservative, criticizing the state budget being burdened by immigrant support payments, as well as the rising costs of the Rail Baltic project and the wage bill for highly paid officials. He demands clarity on profit distribution for state projects (such as the nuclear power plant) to guarantee affordable electricity for the Estonian people, while expressing skepticism about profit extraction by businessmen linked to the Reform Party.
15 Speeches Analyzed
Social Issues
The speaker adopts a hardline position against immigration, viewing it as a threat to language, culture, and security (specifically citing the rise of a fifth column and cultural conflicts). In the realm of education, the focus is on protecting Estonian-language schools from Russification. Regarding social issues, the rising alcoholism rates—attributed to women's lack of a sense of security—and the topic of abortion are brought up. The state is criticized for failing to guarantee women's safety or adequately support children.
15 Speeches Analyzed
Legislative Focus
The speaker is focused on holding the government accountable through parliamentary inquiries regarding the challenges of transitioning to Estonian-language education, immigration policy, and the current state of national defense equipment. They are a staunch opponent of the Rail Baltic project and demand a decision to halt its construction if costs escalate too much.
15 Speeches Analyzed