Agenda Profile: Mart Helme
Continuation of the first reading of the Draft Act (682 SE) on the Ratification of the Agreement between the Republic of Estonia and the Kingdom of Sweden concerning the Execution of Prison Sentences of the Kingdom of Sweden in the Republic of Estonia
2025-11-05
15th Riigikogu, 6th Session, Plenary Sitting
Political Position
Strong political opposition exists to the agreement between Estonia and Sweden concerning the enforcement of prison sentences (682 SE), with opponents deeming it nationally irresponsible and even criminal. This stance is value-based, focusing on public safety and the isolation of convicted criminals, alongside criticism of the government's operational inefficiency. It is argued that the agreement places the next administration in a predicament, forcing them to repeal it.
4 Speeches Analyzed
Topic Expertise
Demonstrates knowledge in the judicial sector, particularly concerning prison occupancy and management, by challenging the commission representative's claims regarding the vacancy of Jõhvi Prison. Uses examples of specific crimes (e.g., "Tartu Tarmo," juvenile offenses) to support arguments, showcasing awareness of systemic legal flaws ("praak"). Furthermore, offers solutions in the social welfare field, recommending the repurposing of prison buildings into nursing homes or social care facilities.
4 Speeches Analyzed
Rhetorical Style
The rhetorical style is highly combative, accusatory, and insistent, employing strong and emotional phrases such as "criminally," "inability to think," and "political drivel." The appeal targets both logic (the repurposing of prisons) and emotion (the threat to public safety). It demands that the government activate its sense of responsibility and immediately withdraw the draft bill.
4 Speeches Analyzed
Activity Patterns
Insufficient data
4 Speeches Analyzed
Opposition Stance
The main opponents are the current coalition (Eesti 200 and its partner), who stand accused of recklessness and criminal behavior, along with the representative and minister of the Ministry of Justice. The criticism is intense, including accusations of incompetence and the presentation of false claims. Compromise is ruled out, and the withdrawal of the draft bill is being demanded.
4 Speeches Analyzed
Collaboration Style
Demonstrates a willingness to cooperate with the opposition, suggesting that the government should heed the opposition members' recommendation to withdraw the draft bill. Defends his party (the Estonian Conservative People's Party) against the minister's accusations. There is a complete lack of openness to compromise with the ruling coalition.
4 Speeches Analyzed
Regional Focus
It focuses on specific regional facilities and issues, mentioning Tartu Prison in connection with its repurposing and Jõhvi Prison regarding its occupancy rate. It also refers to the awareness of the Jõhvi situation by a people's representative (MP/deputy) from Ida-Virumaa, thereby introducing the aspect of regional knowledge.
4 Speeches Analyzed
Economic Views
Insufficient data
4 Speeches Analyzed
Social Issues
A strong focus on public safety and the necessity of isolating convicted criminals who are currently committing new crimes while at large. It criticizes "liberal governments" for their failure to meet the social welfare needs of an aging society, proposing the repurposing of prison buildings to create elderly care facilities as a solution.
4 Speeches Analyzed
Legislative Focus
The primary legislative focus is the opposition to, and the demand for the withdrawal of, the agreement on the enforcement of custodial sentences (682 SE) between the Republic of Estonia and the Kingdom of Sweden. The secondary focus is rectifying the state's legal shortcomings, thereby ensuring that persons convicted by the courts are kept behind bars.
4 Speeches Analyzed