Agenda Profile: Annely Akkermann
Draft law on the 2025 state budget (513 SE) - first reading
2024-10-16
15th Riigikogu, 4th session, plenary sitting
Political Position
The speaker strongly supports increasing defense spending and gradually reducing the budget deficit. He stresses that Estonia ranks among the top three NATO countries regarding the share of GDP allocated to defense, arguing that tax hikes to cover security expenditures are justified. He defends the government’s fiscal policy, asserting that public finances are sound despite the existing deficit.
3 Speeches Analyzed
Topic Expertise
Demonstrates profound knowledge of the state budget preparation process, citing specific figures and percentage indicators. Possesses a strong command of public finance principles, European Union budgetary rules, and the functioning of the pension system. Uses precise statistical data regarding economic growth, tax revenue, and social expenditure.
3 Speeches Analyzed
Rhetorical Style
The tone used is calm and explanatory, grounded in facts and numerical data. It employs metaphors ("large ships are turned slowly") and structured argumentation. The style is formal and comprehensive, prioritizing the delivery of detailed explanations over emotional appeal.
3 Speeches Analyzed
Activity Patterns
Actively participated in the work of the Riigikogu Finance Committee, organizing six sessions with all ministers throughout October. Served as the representative of the lead committee and coordinated the budget review process. This demonstrates a systematic and comprehensive approach to organizing legislative work.
3 Speeches Analyzed
Opposition Stance
He/She directly criticizes the previous government (2018–2019), accusing them of mismanaging reserves. They challenge the opposition’s claims that tax increases will stifle economic growth, presenting counterarguments. They also criticize the dismantling of the second pension pillar as a "cynical mistake."
3 Speeches Analyzed
Collaboration Style
Emphasizes consensus-based decision-making within the Finance Committee and cooperation with all ministers. Mentions that most procedural decisions were made by consensus, even though agreement was not reached on all issues. Demonstrates openness to detailed discussions and listening to arguments.
3 Speeches Analyzed
Regional Focus
The text addresses a specific regional project: the construction of the Võru shooting range at a cost of 9 million euros. It criticizes the project's lack of transparency and questions whether allocating funds from the government reserve is the correct procedure. Otherwise, it focuses primarily on national issues.
3 Speeches Analyzed
Economic Views
It supports fiscal discipline and the gradual reduction of the budget deficit, but accepts temporary borrowing to cover national defense expenditures. It emphasizes that despite tax increases, the state stimulates the economy through foreign grants and investments. It supports the financing of strategic large-scale projects and investment in research and development (R&D).
3 Speeches Analyzed
Social Issues
It focuses on the welfare of pensioners, stressing that half of all pensioners live in relative poverty. It supports the continued indexation of pensions and criticizes the dismantling of the second pension pillar. It emphasizes that the state must guarantee at least a basic standard of living for pensioners.
3 Speeches Analyzed
Legislative Focus
Leads the proceedings for the 2025 State Budget Act draft in the Riigikogu, coordinating the first reading and the process for submitting amendments. Focuses on budget legislation, the regulation of national defense expenditures, and pension system issues. The deadline for amendments is October 30.
3 Speeches Analyzed