Session Profile: Martin Helme
15th Riigikogu, 6th sitting, plenary sitting
2025-09-15
Political Position
The political focus is directed toward government accountability, specifically criticizing the accounting shortfalls in the defense sector and the risk of corruption (the so-called revolving door phenomenon). Furthermore, a cross-sectoral administrative issue is being raised concerning the granting of permits to hunt nuisance wildlife and the subsequent resolution of damages caused by them. The speaker adopts a strongly oppositional stance, centering their criticism on the performance and effectiveness (performance-driven) of the government's actions.
2 Speeches Analyzed
Topic Expertise
The speaker demonstrates knowledge of financial management and conflicts of interest within the national defense sector, citing the State Audit Office audit and specific names (Heremid, Palmid, Salmid) in connection with the "revolving door" problem. Furthermore, they possess specific knowledge regarding the issuance of hunting permits and the division of responsibility between administrative jurisdictions concerning nuisance animals (wolves, bears).
2 Speeches Analyzed
Rhetorical Style
The rhetorical style is sharp, accusatory, and demanding, employing strong language (e.g., "massive threat of corruption") and rhetorical questions. A slightly more informal tone is also used ("IQ higher than an earthworm") to underscore the criticism. A logical appeal is favored, blended with emotional prodding, to highlight the danger posed by government inaction.
2 Speeches Analyzed
Activity Patterns
There is too little data.
2 Speeches Analyzed
Opposition Stance
The primary criticism is aimed at the government minister or ministry ("under your purview"), who stands accused of ignoring the risk of corruption and permitting wasteful spending within the defense sector. The criticism is intense, focusing on administrative failures, conflicts of interest, and funds vanishing into a "black hole."
2 Speeches Analyzed
Collaboration Style
There is too little data.
2 Speeches Analyzed
Regional Focus
The focus is on national issues, covering the management of the national defense budget and the nationwide problem of nuisance wildlife (wolves and bears), which cause economic damage. Specific local or international projects are not mentioned.
2 Speeches Analyzed
Economic Views
Economic views focus on the strict control of public sector spending and fiscal discipline, particularly when managing the defense budget. Strong opposition is voiced against waste and corruption, which leads to funds disappearing into a "black hole."
2 Speeches Analyzed
Social Issues
There is too little data.
2 Speeches Analyzed
Legislative Focus
The focus is on holding the executive power accountable and requiring the mitigation of administrative risks (the prevention of corruption and conflicts of interest). Specific bills or amendments are not mentioned; rather, the demand is for the improvement of the existing system.
2 Speeches Analyzed