Agenda Profile: Züleyxa Izmailova

The political focus is centered on improving the financial stability of families with children, demanding the nationwide abolition of kindergarten fees—a measure considered fair and necessary due to multiple ongoing crises. The attitude toward the government's economic policy is strongly critical, especially concerning the permanent establishment of the VAT rate and the reduction of the gambling tax. This stance is framed as a demand for social justice and the fulfillment of promises made to the electorate. The political action itself is justified by the necessity of ensuring a strong and stable home front in support of national defense.

The speaker demonstrates expertise in the areas of state finance (supplementary budget, VAT, gambling tax) and regional policy. The analysis covers the impact of tax policy decisions on household incomes and competition among local governments. Specific emphasis is placed on the potential negative regional policy consequences (urbanization) of abolishing kindergarten placement fees, particularly if the implementation is poorly planned.

The tone of the speech is critical and urgent, accusing the government of negligence and serving narrow business interests. It employs both logical arguments (consequences for regional policy, economic policy rationale) and strong emotional appeals (the livelihood of families, difficulties purchasing food). The style is formal, yet contains populist elements, addressing "Dear Estonian people" directly.

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The main opponent is the Reform Party and the government it leads, which is criticized for breaking its 2019 election promise and for making unfair tax policy decisions. The criticism is intense, accusing the government of serving narrow business interests at the expense of families with children. The pretext of funding national defense is being contrasted with the decision to lower the gambling tax.

The speaker is urging colleagues to support the Social Democrats' amendment to the supplementary budget, demonstrating a willingness to achieve the goal in cooperation with other members of parliament. It is noted that the abolition of kindergarten fees is supported by the majority of political parties, pointing to potential broad-based support.

The focus is nationwide, emphasizing that the abolition of kindergarten fees must apply to families throughout Estonia, not solely to Tallinn residents. Concern is raised that poorly thought-out measures could promote urbanization and the decline of rural areas, indicating an awareness of the regional policy implications.

Measures that improve family well-being and increase purchasing power are supported, such as the abolition of kindergarten placement fees and the reduction of VAT on food products. We oppose lowering the gambling tax and making the temporary VAT increase permanent, considering this to be unfair economic policy. Social expenditures are prioritized over tax concessions aimed at narrow business interests.

The main social issue is the economic sustainability and basic well-being of families with children, which is threatened due to decreasing incomes. The abolition of kindergarten fees is considered the long-term programmatic stance of the Social Democrats and an important step in supporting families. It is emphasized that strong national defense begins with a strong home front, meaning the sustainability of families.

The legislative focus is on the draft State Supplementary Budget Act of 2025 (651 SE), under which an amendment proposal is being presented to abolish the kindergarten placement fee across all of Estonia. The speaker opposes the content of the government's draft bill and is spearheading the Social Democrats' amendment, seeking to redirect budget funds toward fulfilling social commitments.