Session Profile: Helle-Moonika Helme
15th Estonian Parliament, 4th session, plenary session
2024-10-07
Political Position
The political focus centers on infrastructure development, demanding the prioritization of Via Baltica over Rail Baltica, which is widely viewed as a utopian and wasteful project. There is also sharp criticism directed at the monopolistic practices of Estonian telecom companies and the state's failure to regulate the ratio between internet speed and cost. These positions are strongly oppositional to the government's actions and budget cuts, particularly concerning road maintenance, emphasizing citizens' right to quality service.
4 Speeches Analyzed
Topic Expertise
The speaker demonstrates expertise concerning the strategic importance and financial aspects of infrastructure projects (Via Baltica, Rail Baltica), highlighting specific budget figures and shortfalls (e.g., a 3 billion shortfall by 2030). A detailed analysis of the poor state of Estonian internet services compared to the rest of Europe was also presented, citing monopolism and the necessity of regulation. He/She is aware of the commitments made to the European Union regarding the development of Via Baltica.
4 Speeches Analyzed
Rhetorical Style
The rhetorical style is sharply critical and at times emotional, using strong expressions such as "pure monopolism," "utopian project," and "money laundering." Appeals are made both to logic (economic and strategic importance) and to emotions (traffic fatalities and poor road maintenance). The overall tone is urgent and demanding, emphasizing that the state must intervene where it is necessary to stand up for the people.
4 Speeches Analyzed
Activity Patterns
The speaker is engaged in submitting formal inquiries and continuously monitoring these issues, referencing a previous interpellation directed to Climate Minister Kristen Michal on May 10th. This demonstrates consistent action in keeping specific infrastructure problems on the agenda, now addressing Infrastructure Minister Vladimir Svet.
4 Speeches Analyzed
Opposition Stance
The primary adversaries are the government and ministers, who are criticized for ineffective regulation and poor investment decisions. Opposition is particularly strong against the Rail Baltica project, which is being called EU money laundering and an insane waste of resources. Criticism is also directed at major telecommunications companies, which are accused of monopolistic practices and earning profits without providing corresponding services.
4 Speeches Analyzed
Collaboration Style
Insufficient data
4 Speeches Analyzed
Regional Focus
The focus lies on international transport corridors, particularly the significance of Via Baltica for Estonia, Latvia, Lithuania, and Poland, both economically and strategically. Domestically, emphasis is placed on the necessity of developing four-lane highways leading to Tartu, Pärnu, and Narva, contrasting this priority with the construction of Rail Baltic "in the middle of Estonian fields."
4 Speeches Analyzed
Economic Views
Economic viewpoints strongly favor regulation, particularly for curbing monopolies where the free market has failed. They prioritize the organization and maintenance of existing infrastructure over new, uncertain grand projects, accusing the government of wasting money. It is demanded that, in return for high taxes, the public must receive quality public services, such as proper road maintenance.
4 Speeches Analyzed
Social Issues
The social focus is on road safety and public security, stressing that inadequate road maintenance during the autumn and winter months leads to tragic accidents and preventable fatalities. Proper road maintenance is framed as a state obligation and a fundamental right of the people, ensuring everyone can return home alive and well.
4 Speeches Analyzed
Legislative Focus
The legislative focus is on implementing regulations aimed at curbing the monopolies held by telecommunications firms and on reshaping national investment priorities. The speaker acts primarily as a critic and a challenger, utilizing the mechanism of parliamentary interpellation to compel the government to address the issues surrounding the Via Baltica and road maintenance resources.
4 Speeches Analyzed