Agenda Profile: Martin Helme

Elections of the Riigikogu Board

2024-04-04

15th Riigikogu, 3rd session, plenary session

Political Position
The most crucial issue is the composition of the Riigikogu Presidium and the representation of the opposition. The speaker forcefully stresses the necessity of restoring the tradition under which the largest opposition party is represented on the Presidium, criticizing the failure of the previous year. This stance is both procedural and value-based, centering on the integrity of parliamentary procedure and ensuring the opposition is represented with dignity.

1 Speeches Analyzed
Topic Expertise
The speaker demonstrates knowledge of the Riigikogu's internal customs and procedures, referencing the rules governing the formation of the Board. Furthermore, the candidate's previous experience as Minister of Rural Affairs and current work on the Social Affairs Committee are highlighted, suggesting a certain level of expertise in those specific fields.

1 Speeches Analyzed
Rhetorical Style
The speech has a confident tone and centers on restoring traditions and highlighting the candidate's personal character. It employs emotional and patriotic appeals (for example, "Viru blood does not tremble!") while stressing honesty, hard work, and loyalty. The style is highly purposeful, concentrating on justifying the nomination and showcasing the candidate's core values.

1 Speeches Analyzed
Activity Patterns
Data is scarce.

1 Speeches Analyzed
Opposition Stance
The speaker clearly represents the interests of the opposition and indirectly criticizes the previous election of the Riigikogu Board, where the tradition of involving the opposition broke down ("went completely wrong"). The criticism is procedural, emphasizing the need for dignified representation of the opposition on the Board.

1 Speeches Analyzed
Collaboration Style
The style of cooperation centers on the expectation that the general customs and traditions of the Riigikogu are followed, which ensures the representation of the opposition. Direct openness to compromises or cross-party cooperation, beyond procedural fairness, is not mentioned.

1 Speeches Analyzed
Regional Focus
Strong emphasis is placed on the candidate's regional origin in Virumaa, using this as a symbol of strength of character and loyalty ("Viru blood does not tremble!"). This regional focus is tied directly to highlighting the candidate's personal qualities.

1 Speeches Analyzed
Economic Views
Data is scarce.

1 Speeches Analyzed
Social Issues
Social issues are addressed indirectly, primarily by mentioning the candidate’s work on the social committee. Specific stances on social policy or other social topics are not presented.

1 Speeches Analyzed
Legislative Focus
The primary legislative focus is procedural: the election of the Riigikogu Presidium and ensuring the representation of the opposition. The candidate’s prior experience as Minister of Rural Affairs and work on the Social Affairs Committee suggest potential areas of interest, but no direct legislative priorities have been named.

1 Speeches Analyzed