Agenda Profile: Mart Helme
Draft law amending the Penal Code and other laws in connection therewith (sanctions violations) (441 SE) – second reading
2025-03-19
15th Riigikogu, 5th session, plenary session
Political Position
The political stance centers on the advisability of proceeding with the sanctions violation bill (441 SE). The speaker expresses skepticism about moving forward with the bill, arguing that it has become obsolete given the anticipated lifting of sanctions following negotiations between the US and Russia. This position is primarily outcome-based, highlighting the futility of passing a law that is expected to be repealed shortly thereafter.
2 Speeches Analyzed
Topic Expertise
The speaker demonstrates knowledge of international sanctions regimes, emphasizing that sanctions affect other countries besides Russia and Belarus. This expertise is evident in detailed questions regarding the geographical scope of the draft legislation, specifically naming North Korea, Iran, Venezuela, and Cuba.
2 Speeches Analyzed
Rhetorical Style
The rhetorical style is interrogative and skeptical, focusing on the practical utility and timeliness of the draft legislation. The speaker employs logical appeals, referencing international events (the negotiations between Trump and Putin) and demands clarifications regarding the scope of the bill. The tone is rather businesslike and procedural, seeking factual clarity.
2 Speeches Analyzed
Activity Patterns
The speaker actively participates in the second reading of the bill, presenting two interventions on the same day. One of these challenges the bill's procedure, and the other demands clarification of its scope. This pattern demonstrates a swift reaction to current international information (the negotiations between Putin and Trump).
2 Speeches Analyzed
Opposition Stance
The opposition is focused on the relevance and necessity of the bill currently being processed (441 SE), rather than directly targeting its initiators. The criticism stems from foreign policy developments that could soon render the law void, forcing the state to draft and process a new bill. The bill is being referred to as "a completely outdated piece of legislation."
2 Speeches Analyzed
Collaboration Style
The style of cooperation is dialogic and information-seeking, requesting an assessment and clarifications from the counterpart regarding the content and scope of the draft law. The speaker is attempting to refresh their memory and clarify whether the draft concerns only Russia and Belarus, or if it also includes other sanctioned countries.
2 Speeches Analyzed
Regional Focus
The focus is exclusively international, concentrating on global sanctions regimes imposed by Western nations (the EU and the USA). Specific sanctioned countries, such as Russia, Belarus, North Korea, Iran, Venezuela, and Cuba, are under scrutiny.
2 Speeches Analyzed
Economic Views
The economic implications are indirect, addressing the future and validity of sanctions as an economic policy instrument. The speaker points to the potential removal of sanctions, a development that would affect international trade and economic relations.
2 Speeches Analyzed
Social Issues
Not enough data
2 Speeches Analyzed
Legislative Focus
The legislative focus is on the draft law amending the Penal Code (Bill 441 SE), which addresses sanction violations. The speaker opposes the further processing of this bill, deeming it obsolete, and demands clarification regarding its geographical scope in order to understand which countries the law will affect.
2 Speeches Analyzed