Session Profile: Mart Helme
15th Riigikogu, 3rd sitting, information briefing
2024-04-03
Political Position
The political position is one of strong opposition to the government’s immigration and security policies, stressing the necessity of revoking the voting rights of third-country nationals in local elections. There is also sharp criticism regarding the alleged unauthorized giveaway of state assets (power plants, ports). The focus is value-based, emphasizing national sovereignty and security, particularly concerning Ukrainian men of mobilization age residing in Estonia. The government is accused of lacking political will and representing a "puppet government."
7 Speeches Analyzed
Topic Expertise
The speaker demonstrates knowledge of immigration and security topics, highlighting specific figures regarding people of Ukrainian origin and men of mobilization age who have arrived in Estonia (over 100,000 arrivals, 19,000 men). The procedural side of amending the constitution is also emphasized, stressing that the necessary votes for the amendment to pass would be available. Significant focus is also placed on the procedural rules governing the Riigikogu (Estonian Parliament) information hour and the requirement that the respondent must stick to the topic.
7 Speeches Analyzed
Rhetorical Style
The style is highly combative, accusatory, and emotional. Strong and loaded terms are used (e.g., "puppet government," "demagoguery," "Russifying prime minister"), and personal accusations are leveled against the opposing side, including "hating Estonians" or rejecting accusations of "xenophobia." The focus is on calling the respondent to order and highlighting procedural violations, given that the respondent fails to stick to the topic.
7 Speeches Analyzed
Activity Patterns
The speaker is actively participating in the Riigikogu (Parliament) Q&A session, posing repetitive questions and making procedural remarks regarding the respondent staying on topic. Mention is made of a bill introduced by their party two weeks ago aimed at revoking the voting rights of third-country nationals.
7 Speeches Analyzed
Opposition Stance
The main opponent is the Reform Party and Prime Minister Kaja Kallas, who is accused of demagoguery, inconsistency on issues, and representing a "puppet government." The criticism is intense, personal, and questions political will, claiming that the government has not received directives from its "masters." The opponents are also accused of giving away the property of the Estonian people without authorization.
7 Speeches Analyzed
Collaboration Style
The style of cooperation is absent and confrontational. It is noted that even Isamaa, which holds similar positions, did not support the speaker's party's draft bill concerning the revocation of voting rights, citing a lack of broad support. The speaker focuses on confrontation and accusation, rather than seeking compromises.
7 Speeches Analyzed
Regional Focus
The focus is clearly national and international, addressing Estonian security, foreign relations (Ukraine, Russia), and the management of state assets. Particular emphasis is placed on the issues concerning the presence of third-country nationals and Ukrainian men of mobilization age in Estonia. Specific local or regional topics are absent.
7 Speeches Analyzed
Economic Views
The economic perspectives emphasize the protection of state assets (power plants, ports, highways) and sharply criticize government decisions concerning the unauthorized giveaway of public property. A danger is seen in losing control over national assets, and accountability is demanded from those who made such decisions.
7 Speeches Analyzed
Social Issues
Among social issues, immigration policy and security are the dominant concerns. There is a demand for the revocation of voting rights in local elections for citizens of third countries (including Russians, Bangladeshis, and Iranians). The presence of Ukrainian men of mobilization age (around 19,000) in Estonia is also heavily criticized, with critics viewing it as an abnormal situation that poses a threat to Estonian security.
7 Speeches Analyzed
Legislative Focus
The legislative focus is currently directed at revoking the right to vote for third-country nationals in local elections, and a corresponding draft bill has been submitted. Furthermore, there is a proposal to mobilize Ukrainian men residing in Estonia into a local foreign legion, a measure that would necessitate government-level decisions or legislative amendments.
7 Speeches Analyzed