Agenda Profile: Martin Helme
Second reading of the draft resolution of the Riigikogu concerning "The use of the Defence Forces in fulfilling the Republic of Estonia's international obligations as part of the United Kingdom's joint expeditionary force" (483 OE)
2024-12-04
15th Estonian Parliament, 4th session, plenary sitting
Political Position
The political position is strongly opposed to most foreign missions (e.g., Mozambique, Lebanon), which are considered unconstitutional "blank checks" and a waste of resources. The main emphasis is on a value-based framework where Estonia must focus solely on its own national security, rather than acting like an empire. The stance is strongly oppositional, demanding a radical change in national defense policy in accordance with the altered security situation.
2 Speeches Analyzed
Topic Expertise
The speaker demonstrates expertise in the field of national defense and foreign missions, citing specific operations (Mozambique, Lebanon, Syria) and criticizing their objectives, which they label as "neocolonialism" and "greenwashing." Particular emphasis is placed on the constitutional aspect concerning the delegation of powers by the Riigikogu (Estonian Parliament), referring to these bills as "blank checks." Furthermore, the Ministry of Defense and the General Staff are criticized for their failure to account for the changed security environment.
2 Speeches Analyzed
Rhetorical Style
The rhetorical style is highly combative, critical, and insistent, employing strong accusations and rhetorical questions ("Is Estonia some kind of empire?"). The speaker appeals both to logic (waste of money, constitutionality) and morality, accusing opponents of routine inertia and a lack of comprehension ("do you not understand, or do you not want to understand?"). The tone is blunt and demands that the activity cease ("Let's put an end to this!").
2 Speeches Analyzed
Activity Patterns
The speech was delivered during the second reading of the Riigikogu's bill concerning the significant use of the defense forces, demonstrating active participation in key legislative debates. The speaker immediately requested three additional minutes at the outset to frame their comprehensive opposition and present their arguments.
2 Speeches Analyzed
Opposition Stance
The primary groups facing criticism are the National Defence Committee, the Ministry of Defence, and the General Staff, who are accused of failing to grasp the changes in the security situation and adhering to outdated routines. The criticism is intense and focuses on political inexpediency, constitutional violations, and the waste of resources. No willingness to compromise is expressed; instead, the rejection of the objectionable draft legislation is demanded.
2 Speeches Analyzed
Collaboration Style
Cooperation is mentioned only with Varro Vooglaid, who is referred to as the person who drew attention to a critically important constitutional aspect. There is no reference whatsoever to a willingness to compromise or engage in cross-party cooperation on the issue of the missions, as the position is fundamentally oppositional.
2 Speeches Analyzed
Regional Focus
Although the discussion concerns international missions (Africa, the Middle East), the regional focus is strongly shifted back to Estonia. It is emphasized that the duty of Estonian politicians is to ensure that Estonia remains safe, and that our soldiers are needed here in Estonia, not gallivanting abroad.
2 Speeches Analyzed
Economic Views
Economic perspectives focus on the efficient use of national defense expenditures, opposing foreign missions that are deemed wasteful. Criticism is leveled at tax hikes (VAT, income tax, security tax) which are collected to promote national defense but are subsequently spent on "adventuring around the world." Strict fiscal discipline is demanded concerning defense spending.
2 Speeches Analyzed
Social Issues
Insufficient data.
2 Speeches Analyzed
Legislative Focus
The legislative focus is heavily concentrated on opposing draft legislation concerning the deployment of the Defence Forces, especially those that are essentially "blank checks" and violate the constitution. The speaker is acting as an objector, demanding that the National Defence Committee cease sending such bills to the floor.
2 Speeches Analyzed