Agenda Profile: Mart Helme
Amendment of the Constitution
2024-11-20
15th Estonian Parliament, 4th sitting, press briefing.
Political Position
The political focus centers on opposing the constitutional amendment concerning non-citizens' voting rights, which is being framed as a direct threat serving Kremlin interests and designed to influence Estonian election outcomes. The speaker highlights their prior role in the withdrawal of Russian troops to fend off accusations of being pro-Putin. This position is intensely value-driven, concentrating on national security and sovereignty.
2 Speeches Analyzed
Topic Expertise
The speaker demonstrates expertise regarding the history of Estonian security and the negotiations concerning the withdrawal of Russian troops, highlighting this as a personal historical achievement. Furthermore, awareness is shown regarding the dynamics in the number of stateless persons (grey passport holders) and the irreversible consequences of amending the constitution. This expertise is then used to project scenarios of Kremlin influence (specifically, the mass application for grey passports by the fifth column).
2 Speeches Analyzed
Rhetorical Style
The rhetorical style is extremely aggressive and confrontational, featuring direct personal attacks and insults ("I'd punch him in the nose," "to the arrogant jerk"). Strong emotional appeals are employed, linking the opponents' actions to the interests of the Kremlin and the jeopardizing of national security (the narrative of the "fifth column" and "voting Putin in as prime minister"). Although a logical argument is presented regarding the problem's disappearance, accusations of propagandistic shows and incompetence dominate the discourse.
2 Speeches Analyzed
Activity Patterns
The speeches were delivered on the same date, indicating participation in a parliamentary information session or a similar debate. Previous activity as a member of the Estonian delegation during the negotiations for the withdrawal of Russian troops is also mentioned.
2 Speeches Analyzed
Opposition Stance
The main opponents are the coalition and the government, who stand accused of serving the Kremlin's interests and lacking the capacity for critical thought. The attacks are intense and personal, labeling the opponents as producers of propaganda shows and the architects of Nordica's bankruptcy. The criticism also extends to the coalition partners (the Social Democrats), who are accused of wanting to live under the laws of the Estonian SSR.
2 Speeches Analyzed
Collaboration Style
No data available
2 Speeches Analyzed
Regional Focus
The focus is on national security, constitutional matters, and the international threat (Kremlin influence). Regionally, Narva is mentioned in connection with the activities of the coalition partners, and reference is made to the problem of Russian bases.
2 Speeches Analyzed
Economic Views
Economic arguments are restricted to criticizing opponents over the Nordica bankruptcy, which is being used as an example of their incompetence ('the bankruptcy master'). Broader positions on economic policy are lacking.
2 Speeches Analyzed
Social Issues
The primary social issue is the voting rights of non-citizens (specifically, those holding the "grey passport"), which is strictly viewed through the lens of national security and foreign influence (the Kremlin). Emphasis is placed on the necessity of preventing Russian influence on election outcomes, citing the threat posed by a fifth column.
2 Speeches Analyzed
Legislative Focus
The legislative focus is currently centered on opposing a constitutional amendment regarding the establishment of voting rights for non-citizens. The speaker is a staunch opponent of this particular draft law, warning of its long-term negative consequences.
2 Speeches Analyzed