Session Profile: Helle-Moonika Helme
15th Riigikogu, Riigikogu's extraordinary session.
2024-07-22
Political Position
The political position is strongly oppositional, focusing on the government's operational failures and corruption. The main points of emphasis are the economic decline, wasteful state administration, and the damaging nature of Kaja Kallas’s decisions, which were allegedly made purely for the sake of her personal career. The speaker rejects the claim that the situation has been ravaged by war, stressing instead that the decisions made by the Reform Party governments are to blame.
4 Speeches Analyzed
Topic Expertise
The speaker demonstrates expertise regarding economic policy, decisions within the energy sector, and the efficiency of public administration. Particular emphasis is placed on financial matters, the epidemic spread of corruption (referencing the "white plastic bag"), and the history of pension policy. Specific terminology, such as "green ideology," is employed, and specific politicians (Jürgen Ligi) are referenced in the context of budget cuts.
4 Speeches Analyzed
Rhetorical Style
The rhetorical style is highly combative, accusatory, and cynical, employing strong emotional language (e.g., "outrages," "battered," "destructive decisions"). Rhetorical questions are frequently used, along with direct attacks on the opponent's motives and integrity, demanding accountability. The tone is extremely confrontational and distrustful ("we can now read lips very well").
4 Speeches Analyzed
Activity Patterns
The information is confined to the appearance at the extraordinary session of the Riigikogu, where the speaker actively participates with questions and comments, addressing the candidate/presenter directly. Other patterns of activity (meetings, travel) are not evident from the speeches.
4 Speeches Analyzed
Opposition Stance
The main opponents are the Reform Party, Kaja Kallas, and the new-old coalition. Criticism is intense, encompassing both political decisions (the destruction of the economy, the energy sector) and ethical accusations (corruption, lies, personal gain). The speaker rejects the government's attempts to justify its actions by referencing the behavior of a neighboring country.
4 Speeches Analyzed
Collaboration Style
There is a lack of willingness to cooperate; the speaker positions themselves in complete opposition to the government and demands accountability. A reference is made to an internal opposition dialogue (with Isamaa) concerning pensions, but this is primarily intended to refute the opponent's assertion.
4 Speeches Analyzed
Regional Focus
The focus is on national and international topics, covering the Estonian economy, the livelihood of its people, and relations with the neighboring state. Special attention is drawn to Kaja Kallas's high-ranking position in Europe and its influence on Estonian politics. There is no regional or local focus.
4 Speeches Analyzed
Economic Views
Economic views are heavily geared towards reducing the tax burden and putting an end to government waste, while criticizing 'green ideology' and decisions made in the energy sector. The speaker opposes new taxes, arguing they are simply used to cover up corruption, and champions the well-being and livelihood of both entrepreneurs and the general public.
4 Speeches Analyzed
Social Issues
Regarding social issues, emphasis is placed on the livelihood and well-being of the Estonian people, which have deteriorated due to government decisions. Pensioners, rescuers, and teachers are highlighted separately, as their funding is threatened by government cuts, and the protection of pension increases is advocated.
4 Speeches Analyzed
Legislative Focus
The legislative focus is on opposing government policy, particularly regarding new taxes and budget cuts, and demanding accountability for detrimental decisions. The speaker is an opposition force criticizing current policies (energy, green ideology) and calling for their reversal.
4 Speeches Analyzed