Session Profile: Helle-Moonika Helme
Fifteenth Riigikogu, fifth sitting, plenary session
2025-03-18
Political Position
The political position is strongly oppositional, focusing on criticizing the government's actions due to the violation of constitutional procedure and the lack of a popular mandate. The speaker opposes legislative bills favoring specific economic interests (such as fast-tracking procedures for startups and film crews) and is against granting new powers to the ERJK, deeming it politically biased. He/She claims that Estonia is no longer a rule of law state, citing the ruling parties' violation of the constitution and the failure of supervisory bodies.
6 Speeches Analyzed
Topic Expertise
The speaker demonstrates an understanding of how to differentiate between startups and large corporations, stressing that large investments do not automatically constitute a startup. They are aware of the issues concerning political bias and violations of constitutional procedures related to the Committee for the Supervision of Party Financing (ERJK). Furthermore, they reference the success of the Estonian film industry, specifically mentioning the film "Tenet."
6 Speeches Analyzed
Rhetorical Style
The rhetorical style is highly combative, critical, and accusatory, using strong language such as "immigration pump" and "Bolt's lobbying." The speaker relies primarily on value-based and procedural criticism (e.g., constitutional violations) and directly accuses the government of lobbying and political bullying. The tone is formal, yet urgent and concerned about the state of democracy.
6 Speeches Analyzed
Activity Patterns
The speaker was highly active during one day of the plenary session, raising repeated questions and interjections concerning two different draft bills. This indicates active involvement in the debate and a clear desire to thoroughly critique the proposed legislation.
6 Speeches Analyzed
Opposition Stance
The main opponents are the ruling coalition, who stand accused of violating the constitution and lacking a popular mandate. Criticism is also aimed at the ERJK, which is widely viewed as politically biased and a source of political retribution. The adversaries are directly accused of lobbying and jeopardizing democracy.
6 Speeches Analyzed
Collaboration Style
The speaker supportively references the stance taken by fellow opposition member "Kert" regarding the dismantling of the ERJK, indicating ideological alignment. However, there is no evidence of formal cooperation or a willingness to compromise with the government.
6 Speeches Analyzed
Regional Focus
The focus is on national topics (Estonian rule of law, constitutional procedures) and international economic sectors (startups, film crews). Specific regional or local topics are absent.
6 Speeches Analyzed
Economic Views
He/She is critical of the government subsidies aimed at specific sectors (startups, the film industry), viewing them as the result of lobbying efforts. He/She opposes the fast-track procedure for short-term employment, fearing it will turn the country into an "immigration pump." He/She prefers genuine startups ("garage boys") over large companies that are already established in the market.
6 Speeches Analyzed
Social Issues
The main social concern is related to the violation of the principles of democracy and the rule of law, with critics asserting that the government is endangering the constitution. It is emphasized that the current administration is adopting crucial security, financial, and value-based decisions without a popular mandate.
6 Speeches Analyzed
Legislative Focus
The legislative focus is directed at opposing two bills: the bill concerning the fast-track procedure for short-term employment (criticizing the exceptions granted to startups and film crews), and the government overhaul concerning the mandate and structure of the ERJK. The speaker is acting as a strong opponent and critical overseer of these drafts.
6 Speeches Analyzed