Session Profile: Martin Helme
15th Riigikogu, 4th sitting, information briefing
2024-11-13
Political Position
The speaker's political position is strongly anti-Reform Party government, centering on the incompetent management of security policy and civil defense. They vehemently reject the myth of "firm hands" and accuse the government of cynically sowing panic. A change in policy is demanded, as the current steps (supporting Ukraine's rapid NATO accession, lifting arms restrictions) are escalating the conflict and bringing war to Estonia. The policy framing is strongly results-based and values-based, emphasizing the shortcomings in the country's defense capability and the safety of the people.
6 Speeches Analyzed
Topic Expertise
The speaker demonstrates expertise in national defense and civil defense planning, asking detailed questions regarding the equipment provided (cannons, ammunition, anti-tank, anti-aircraft systems) and the planned demolition operations (the blowing up of bridges and ports). Furthermore, the links between regional policy and family policy were emphasized, criticizing the government's actions which negatively affect rural areas. Knowledge concerning international climate policy (the Paris Agreement) and freedom of speech was also mentioned.
6 Speeches Analyzed
Rhetorical Style
The rhetorical style is highly confrontational, accusatory, and deeply concerned, employing strong emotional appeals regarding the threat of war and mass evacuation. The speaker accuses the government of "bungling" and "panic-mongering," and criticizes the Prime Minister for laughing about such a serious issue. Repeated questions are used (especially concerning evacuation) and rhetorical devices (such as the use of the "oxymoron") to underscore the contradictory nature of the government's claims.
6 Speeches Analyzed
Activity Patterns
The speaker is active during the Riigikogu information hour, posing repeated and pointed follow-up questions, particularly regarding the statements made by the Commander of the Defence Forces. They employ a pattern of repeated questioning to gain clarity on evacuation plans, asking about this topic three times. Reference is made to recent public events, such as the Commander of the Defence Forces' appearance and J. D. Vance's remarks.
6 Speeches Analyzed
Opposition Stance
The main opponent is the Reform Party-led government, and specifically Prime Minister Kaja Kallas, who is accused of incompetence, spreading false propaganda, and cynically stoking panic. The criticism is both political (weakening security) and personal/procedural (laughing, avoiding discussion, and labeling critics as "Putinists"). There is no readiness for compromise, as it is emphasized that political discussion has been impossible for three years.
6 Speeches Analyzed
Collaboration Style
Willingness to cooperate with the government is non-existent, as it is stressed that the Reform Party has obstructed political discussion. However, agreement is noted with the stance of another opposition politician (Helir-Valdor Seeder) regarding the criticism of replacement measures in regional policy.
6 Speeches Analyzed
Regional Focus
The regional focus is strong, emphasizing that government policy is detrimental from a regional policy standpoint (e.g., closing schools, cutting transport funding, failing to build four-lane roads). It is stressed that civil defense and evacuation plans directly concern local governments and rural areas.
6 Speeches Analyzed
Economic Views
Economic views are tied to regional policy, criticizing the reduction of funding for rail, bus, and ferry services, as well as the lack of new infrastructure projects (such as four-lane highways). Criticism is also directed at the government's desire to centralize the decision-making level regarding the allocation of funds, moving it from lower administrative tiers up to the central government.
6 Speeches Analyzed
Social Issues
Among the social issues, family policy is addressed, noting that the government is moving in a direction diametrically opposed to one that would help promote life in rural areas and support larger families. Furthermore, clarification is demanded regarding freedom of speech and hate speech legislation in light of J. D. Vance's statements.
6 Speeches Analyzed
Legislative Focus
The legislative focus is directed toward criticizing government policies and strategies (security, regional policy) and demanding their amendment. The only direct reference to legislative action is the EKRE faction's vote against joining the Paris Climate Agreement.
6 Speeches Analyzed