Agenda Profile: Annely Akkermann
Draft law on establishing tax peace (607 SE) – first reading
2025-05-21
Fifteenth Riigikogu, Fifth Session, Plenary Session.
Political Position
The speaker supports the government’s new tax strategy, under which the security tax will be abandoned, and instead, income tax and VAT will be raised to 24%. They justify this by citing geopolitical changes, particularly the change in the US presidency and the necessity of increasing NATO defense expenditures. They emphasize that the tax holiday is over, but the country must respond to the changed international situation.
8 Speeches Analyzed
Topic Expertise
Shows profound expertise in the field of tax systems and fiscal policy. Uses specific figures (774 euros for the pensioners' tax-free income, 1.6 billion euros for defense expenditure) and references international organizations such as the OECD, IMF, and the European Union. Demonstrates knowledge of the international competitiveness of the Estonian tax system and comparisons with other countries.
8 Speeches Analyzed
Rhetorical Style
Uses a factual and explanatory approach, relying on data and international comparisons. They honestly admit when they don't have the necessary data on hand, but they aren't embarrassed by this. The style is professional and measured, utilizing specific examples and statistics to substantiate their positions.
8 Speeches Analyzed
Activity Patterns
They actively participate in committee work (referencing the May 12 committee session) and serve as the committee's rapporteur. They also mentioned meetings with foreign visitors (students from Germany and Croatia), to whom they introduced Estonian democracy. They were unable to attend the information session due to other obligations, which clearly indicates a tight work schedule.
8 Speeches Analyzed
Opposition Stance
It does not express direct criticism towards specific individuals or groups. Instead, it focuses on justifying political decisions and refuting counterarguments. It mentions that the government does not support the draft bill, and the majority of the committee voted in favor of rejecting it.
8 Speeches Analyzed
Collaboration Style
Highlights the commission's consensus decisions and collective work. It refers to the coalition's new composition and their joint decision to alter the tax strategy. It demonstrates a willingness to share information and direct colleagues to the necessary data.
8 Speeches Analyzed
Regional Focus
There is not enough data.
8 Speeches Analyzed
Economic Views
Supports a competitive tax system and highlights the advantages of Estonia having a low tax burden. Advocates abolishing the current taxation of corporate income to foster economic growth. Acknowledges the high level of consumption taxes but emphasizes the low overall tax burden compared to other European countries. Supports expanding the tax-free income threshold to boost purchasing power.
8 Speeches Analyzed
Social Issues
The focus is on improving the situation of pensioners, emphasizing their higher tax-exempt income (774 euros) and security tax relief. It also mentions supporting low-income individuals through the tax-free income mechanism, which reduces their income tax burden.
8 Speeches Analyzed
Legislative Focus
It focuses on the deliberation and rejection of the draft law establishing tax amnesty. It mentions the law on amendments to the security tax, which passed its first reading. It emphasizes the need for a long-term solution for financing defense expenditures and the implementation of tax system reform.
8 Speeches Analyzed