Agenda Profile: Mart Helme
Chair implementation
2025-09-04
15th Riigikogu, extraordinary session of the Riigikogu
Political Position
The political stance is strongly procedural and value-based, focusing on the strict adherence to the Riigikogu's Rules of Procedure and Order, and the protection of democratic customs. The speaker forcefully opposes new tax increases (car tax, security tax) and demands accountability from the government regarding the economic crisis. The government's activities are described as authoritarian overreach and a violation of laws, effectively trampling the Riigikogu underfoot.
21 Speeches Analyzed
Topic Expertise
The speaker demonstrates specific expertise regarding the organization and procedural rules of the Riigikogu (Rules of Procedure and Internal Rules), consistently highlighting violations thereof and the inaccuracy of the Presidium's interpretations. Particular emphasis is placed on the principle that statutory comments must not hold higher authority than the law itself. Furthermore, topics concerning national defense and security are addressed (e.g., desynchronization, the phrasing of foreign missions), demanding concrete and adequate solutions.
21 Speeches Analyzed
Rhetorical Style
The style is predominantly combative, critical, and forceful, emphasizing the decline of democracy and the trampling of the Riigikogu's work. Both strict procedural arguments and emotional and sarcastic expressions are used, accusing opponents of childish talk and sneering. The speaker uses rhetorical questions to emphasize the seriousness of the situation and the extent of the coalition's arbitrary power.
21 Speeches Analyzed
Activity Patterns
The speaker is active in Riigikogu sessions, often raising procedural questions regarding the confirmation of the agenda and breaches of procedural rules. He participates in the work of the faction and is aware of the activities of the Sittings Department in preparing the agenda. The speaker's pattern of activity demonstrates constant intervention in the chairing of the session and a demand for adherence to the rules.
21 Speeches Analyzed
Opposition Stance
The stance is extremely harsh and uncompromising, criticizing the coalition and the Riigikogu Board for systematic violations of the Rules of Procedure and internal regulations, as well as for silencing the opposition. Opponents are accused of arbitrary action, ignoring democracy, and making the Estonian state look foolish. The Speaker of the Riigikogu and the Board are particularly criticized for their inability to ensure compliance with the rules of procedure and internal regulations.
21 Speeches Analyzed
Collaboration Style
The collaborative style is aimed at emphasizing internal unity within the opposition, citing the support of other opposition members of parliament (e.g., Rene Kokk, Seeder) and the unified demand of the three opposition parties. There is no willingness to compromise when interacting with the coalition, with the focus remaining strictly on demands and the insistence on adherence to procedural rules. The act of ignoring the coalition is viewed as a threat to democracy.
21 Speeches Analyzed
Regional Focus
The focus is primarily on national issues, such as the work of the Riigikogu (Estonian Parliament), tax policy, and security. The regional dimension is evident in the opposition to the car tax, as it negatively impacts the financial well-being of large families and people living in rural areas. International obligations concerning peacekeeping operations in Lebanon and Syria are also addressed.
21 Speeches Analyzed
Economic Views
Economic positions strongly oppose the tax increases, particularly the car tax and the security tax, arguing that these measures undermine the competitiveness of Estonian businesses and damage the tax environment. Emphasis is placed on the deep economic crisis, noting that Estonia is currently "the red lantern of the world" (meaning the worst performer), and accountability is demanded from the government. Alternative funding sources for national defense are proposed (e.g., revenue from wind farms).
21 Speeches Analyzed
Social Issues
Social issues concern the ability of large families to cope given the recent tax increases. The issue of police security powers within the Riigikogu (Parliament) was also raised, demanding equal treatment for traffic violations and for intoxicated or disruptive MPs on Toompea. Reference was also made to previous threats concerning the denial of medical assistance during the COVID period.
21 Speeches Analyzed
Legislative Focus
The legislative focus has been directed toward opposing government bills and demanding the correction of procedural errors. An interpellation was submitted to the Minister of Culture concerning the impact of the car tax, along with a proposal to repeal the security tax, arguing that it is merely a euphemism for tax hikes. Furthermore, the draft bill on peacekeeping operations (486 OE) was demanded to be removed from the agenda due to inadequate phrasing.
21 Speeches Analyzed