Session Profile: Annely Akkermann
15th Riigikogu, 5th session, plenary sitting
2025-05-07
Political Position
The speaker clearly adopts an environmentally friendly stance, strongly supporting renewable energy sources (solar and wind power) while sharply criticizing the oil shale energy sector. He emphasizes that the sun and wind are "more eternal things" and even uses religious argumentation (a biblical reference) to back up his position. His opposition to the oil shale industry is very strong and comprehensive.
1 Speeches Analyzed
Topic Expertise
Although the speaker admits that the environment is not his "field," he demonstrates deep knowledge regarding the environmental impacts of the oil shale industry. He uses technical terms such as "pyrite oxidation," "polyaromatic hydrocarbons," and "external spoil heaps of waste rock." He presents detailed data on the effects of mining on groundwater, air, and soil, citing scientific studies.
1 Speeches Analyzed
Rhetorical Style
The speaking style is emotional and persuasive, blending humor (with audience laughter), religious references, and scientific facts. He uses rhetorical questions ("What exactly is intermittent energy?") and irony directed at the opponents' arguments. The style is direct and passionate, yet supported by concrete facts. He concludes with an emphatic summary regarding the true costs of oil shale.
1 Speeches Analyzed
Activity Patterns
The speaker indicates that they listened to the session from their office, which shows active participation in parliamentary debates even outside their direct area of responsibility. They mention doing research ("I Googled"), suggesting thorough preparation for their addresses. Only one speech during the given period, however, prevents a more precise determination of patterns.
1 Speeches Analyzed
Opposition Stance
It sharply criticizes the national conservative party, which uses the term "juhuenergia" (intermittent energy) when referring to renewable energy. The opposition is principled and ideological, emphasizing the illogical nature of their opponents' arguments. It also criticizes proponents of the oil shale industry who disregard environmental impacts and present oil shale as a "free" alternative.
1 Speeches Analyzed
Collaboration Style
Due to limited data, it is not possible to assess the collaboration style.
1 Speeches Analyzed
Regional Focus
The text mentions specific regional issues in Estonia, such as the Nursipalu training area and Rail Baltic, connecting these to land use conflicts caused by oil shale mining. It focuses on Estonian energy policy and environmental problems that impact the entire country, particularly the Ida-Virumaa region.
1 Speeches Analyzed
Economic Views
It stresses that the oil shale industry is neither truly cheap nor free, but rather involves significant hidden costs in the form of environmental damage. It supports investments in renewable energy as long-term and sustainable solutions. Furthermore, it criticizes the economic model that fails to account for environmental costs.
1 Speeches Analyzed
Social Issues
Based on the limited data available, it is not possible to assess the positions on social issues.
1 Speeches Analyzed
Legislative Focus
He/She focuses on energy policy and environmental issues, although acknowledging that this is not their direct area of responsibility. They intervene in the discussion to clarify terminology and present facts. They show interest in the legislative processes concerning environmental protection and energy policy.
1 Speeches Analyzed