Session Profile: Annely Akkermann
15th Riigikogu, 5th session, plenary session
2025-06-18
Political Position
The speaker strongly supports the government's tax policy, stressing that the income tax hike will not affect low-income individuals or pensioners. They firmly assert that the tax burden will decrease by 1.2 percentage points next year, noting that the Estonian tax system is recognized by OECD countries as the best in the world. The speaker opposes providing local municipalities with additional funding from the state budget, emphasizing the autonomy of local governments.
22 Speeches Analyzed
Topic Expertise
Demonstrates profound knowledge of tax and budgetary matters, utilizing precise figures and percentages (e.g., tax burden reduction from 36.8% to 35.6%, 500 million euros, median salary range of 1500–2000 euros). Possesses a strong grasp of the state budget structure and procedural aspects, and is capable of explaining complex tax accounting and VAT issues. Furthermore, demonstrates comprehensive knowledge of international tax policy and comparative analyses.
22 Speeches Analyzed
Rhetorical Style
The speaker uses fact-based and technically precise argumentation, relying on specific figures and statistics. The tone is usually formal and explanatory, but it sharpens when debating the opposition. Speeches often conclude with a direct call to support the proposed legislation or by correcting the opponent's assertions with factual evidence ("Andrei Korobeinik, don't just talk like that. Speak the truth!").
22 Speeches Analyzed
Activity Patterns
Serves actively as a representative of the Finance Committee, providing detailed reports on several draft bills. Participates intensively in the committee's work (sessions on June 12 and 16) and offers comprehensive answers to colleagues' questions. Demonstrates regular attendance at plenary sessions and systematic monitoring of the field.
22 Speeches Analyzed
Opposition Stance
Sharply criticizes the Social Democrats and Isamaa, claiming they are addressing the wrong item on the agenda. Rejects Andrei Korobeinik’s personal attacks concerning the salary issue, using calculations to refute his claims. Firmly opposes the amendments proposed by the opposition factions, justifying this stance by referencing government policy.
22 Speeches Analyzed
Collaboration Style
Cooperates within the framework of the government and the Finance Committee, but shows little openness to compromise with the opposition. Heavily relies on communicating official positions ("the government's position is...") and the consensus decisions of the committee. Emphasizes adherence to procedural rules and the use of official channels.
22 Speeches Analyzed
Regional Focus
It mentions the Tallinn local government as an example of providing free kindergarten spots, but primarily focuses on national issues. It emphasizes the autonomy of local governments and their responsibility for their own decisions. It does not show a particular focus on specific regional issues or projects.
22 Speeches Analyzed
Economic Views
Strongly supports a competitive and low tax level, highlighting the advantages of the Estonian tax system in international comparison. It opposes the creation of additional permanent expenditures in the state budget and stresses the importance of fiscal discipline. It argues that the "tax festival" is over and that a balanced approach must be maintained between the burden placed on taxpayers and the needs of the state.
22 Speeches Analyzed
Social Issues
This addresses primarily the issues of subsistence benefits and kindergarten placements, while supporting the principle that local governments should decide autonomously on the provision of free services. It recognizes the necessity of raising the subsistence threshold but stands against resolving the matter via a supplementary budget. It stresses individual responsibility in budget planning.
22 Speeches Analyzed
Legislative Focus
Focuses on the deliberation of tax and budget laws, including the simplification of business income taxation and the abolition of the security tax. It is actively engaged in reviewing the supplementary budget act, emphasizing the funding of comprehensive national defense (44.2 million euros). It supports the termination of the tax agreement with Belarus and rejects draft legislation proposed by opposition factions.
22 Speeches Analyzed