Agenda Profile: Züleyxa Izmailova

Draft law amending the Competition Act and, in consequence, amending other laws (609 SE) - second reading

2025-06-10

15th Riigikogu, 5th session, plenary sitting.

Political Position
The political position is strongly opposed to draft bill 609 SE, accusing the minister of demagoguery and acting in the interests of monopolists. The primary focus is on safeguarding fair competition and the free market, as well as prioritizing consumer interests. This stance is clearly policy- and value-driven, emphasizing the protection of the Estonian people and SMEs.

2 Speeches Analyzed
Topic Expertise
The speaker demonstrates expertise in competition law, the restriction of influence exerted by market participants (monopolists, SMEs), and the practical application of the legislation. Reference is made to the review by the Chief Justice of the Supreme Court, which highlights the necessity of being aware of legal expert opinions. Requirements are put forward for analyzing the practice of implementing the law, aiming to more effectively curb agreements that distort the market.

2 Speeches Analyzed
Rhetorical Style
The rhetorical style is combative, straightforward, and accusatory, employing strong language such as "demagogic" and "in the interests of monopolists." Direct rhetorical questions are used to challenge the minister's actions, and specific justifications are demanded regarding the policy's impact. The tone is skeptical, particularly regarding the honesty of the responses ("the hope for this is very small").

2 Speeches Analyzed
Activity Patterns
The speaker participated actively in the legislative debate, making multiple appearances during the second reading of the identical bill (609 SE). This demonstrates active intervention during critical legislative phases.

2 Speeches Analyzed
Opposition Stance
The main opponent is the Minister/Ministry of Justice, who is criticized both for the substance of the policy (supporting monopolists, hindering fair competition) and for procedural errors (ignoring the opinion of the Chief Justice of the Supreme Court). The criticism is intense and accusatory, hinting at dishonest motives ("why are you acting in the interests of monopolists...").

2 Speeches Analyzed
Collaboration Style
No data available

2 Speeches Analyzed
Regional Focus
The focus is on the national level, concentrating on the sustainability of the Estonian people and the Estonian business environment. Comparisons are drawn with other European Union countries in the context of consumer prices, which provides an international framework for comparison.

2 Speeches Analyzed
Economic Views
The economic views emphasize the importance of fair competition and a free market, opposing regulations that favor large market players, namely monopolies. Support is given to small and medium-sized enterprises and consumers, demanding lower prices and protection against market distortions.

2 Speeches Analyzed
Social Issues
No data available

2 Speeches Analyzed
Legislative Focus
The legislative focus is on the draft bill amending the Competition Act (609 SE), which the speaker strongly opposes. The objective is to ensure the law's effectiveness in limiting the influence of large market participants and preventing structural competition violations.

2 Speeches Analyzed