Session Profile: Annely Akkermann
15th Riigikogu, 4th session, plenary sitting
2024-10-16
Political Position
The speaker strongly supports increasing national defense expenditures and the gradual reduction of the budget deficit. He emphasizes that Estonia ranks in the top three among NATO countries in terms of the proportion of defense spending, and that collecting taxes from all citizens is justified to cover these defense costs. Furthermore, he supports the indexation of pensions and criticizes the dismantling of the second pension pillar as a "cynical mistake."
3 Speeches Analyzed
Topic Expertise
Demonstrates profound knowledge of public finance and the specifics of budgetary policy. Utilizes precise figures and statistics, mentioning a 160 million euro measure for strategic projects, a 100 million euro investment in the defense industry, and projecting the average pension to reach 937 euros by 2028. Furthermore, it demonstrates a comprehensive grasp of the European Union's budgetary regulations and economic policy mechanisms.
3 Speeches Analyzed
Rhetorical Style
It employs an explanatory, fact-based approach, relying on figures and concrete examples. The tone is calm and pedagogical, aiming to clarify complex economic policy decisions. It uses metaphors ("large ships turn slowly") and practical analogies when explaining pension pillars ("the state guarantees the bread, but the butter and ham come from the second pillar").
3 Speeches Analyzed
Activity Patterns
Having participated intensively in the preparation of the budget, [the speaker] mentions six Finance Committee meetings held during October with various ministers. This demonstrates regular cooperation with members of the government and an active role in committee work. The speaker refers to detailed discussions where "an hour often proved insufficient."
3 Speeches Analyzed
Opposition Stance
He criticizes the opposition's assertion that tax increases are stifling economic growth, offering the counterargument that state subsidies and money injected into the economy through borrowing are 2.5 times greater than the amount collected via taxes. He also criticizes the then-government of 2018–2019 for depleting reserves during a period of strong economic performance. The criticism is primarily policy-focused, not personal.
3 Speeches Analyzed
Collaboration Style
It emphasizes consensual decisions in committee work and specifically names all participating ministers. It mentions that placing the draft bill on the agenda was a "consensual decision," even though consensus was not reached on concluding the first reading. It shows openness to cooperation and holding detailed discussions.
3 Speeches Analyzed
Regional Focus
It deals primarily with national issues, but it mentions a specific regional project—the construction of the Võru shooting range for 9 million euros. It criticizes the lack of transparency surrounding this project, noting that it might not even be discoverable via a simple word search in the budget's explanatory memorandum. However, the focus remains predominantly at the national level.
3 Speeches Analyzed
Economic Views
It supports fiscal discipline and the gradual reduction of the budget deficit, but accepts a temporary deficit during a crisis. It emphasizes that collecting an additional 1 billion in taxes is justified because foreign grants and loans inject 2.5 times more money into the economy. It supports stimulating the economy through strategic investments and the development of renewable energy.
3 Speeches Analyzed
Social Issues
The focus is primarily on the welfare of pensioners, stressing that nearly half of all pensioners live in relative poverty, a figure that rises to 80% among those living alone. It strongly supports the indexation of pensions and criticizes the dismantling of the second pension pillar. Concern is expressed over the standard of living for pensioners, and the necessity of a multi-pillar pension system is emphasized.
3 Speeches Analyzed
Legislative Focus
Focuses on the legislative process for the 2025 State Budget Act, serving as a representative of the Finance Committee. Explains the procedures and deadlines for handling the budget (the deadline for submitting amendments is October 30). Emphasizes increasing national defense expenditures and implementing economic stimulus measures, including a 160 million euro initiative for strategic projects.
3 Speeches Analyzed