Agenda Profile: Aleksei Jevgrafov
Draft law amending the Constitution of the Republic of Estonia (536 SE) – second reading
2025-02-25
15th Riigikogu, 5th session, plenary session
Political Position
The speaker is strongly opposed to the constitutional amendment bill (536 SE), which would restrict the voting rights of Russian and Belarusian citizens in local elections. This position is value-based, emphasizing the principle of equality, promoting integration, and warning against societal polarization and alienation. The speaker argues that restricting rights merely to create an impression of security diminishes Estonia's status as a rule of law state.
2 Speeches Analyzed
Topic Expertise
The speaker demonstrates knowledge of constitutional principles, referencing equality before the law and the criteria for restricting fundamental rights. They address social integration and the competencies of local government (education, social welfare, housing policy). Furthermore, they highlight a practical obstacle to renouncing Russian citizenship, which impedes the application for Estonian citizenship.
2 Speeches Analyzed
Rhetorical Style
The style is formal, serious, and persuasive, focusing on logical arguments rooted in the principles of the rule of law and social consequences. The speaker leverages authority by citing President Alar Karis's message concerning the reliability of elections and the threats posed by the restriction of fundamental rights. This legal argumentation is balanced with warnings against the emergence of apathy and societal confrontation.
2 Speeches Analyzed
Activity Patterns
The data is limited to two speeches given in the Riigikogu on February 25th, during the second reading of the bill to amend the constitution. The speaker refers to President Karis's speech dedicated to the anniversary of the Republic of Estonia, which had taken place the previous day.
2 Speeches Analyzed
Opposition Stance
The opposition is directed against the bill's proponents, who are being criticized for restricting fundamental rights and distinguishing between citizens based on their nationality. The criticism is policy-driven and intense, warning that their actions could deepen polarization and damage Estonia's reputation as a state governed by the rule of law. The speaker suggests that these restrictions amount to a punishment for those who are unable to renounce their Russian citizenship.
2 Speeches Analyzed
Collaboration Style
There are no direct references to cooperation or compromise, but the speaker addressed the members of the Riigikogu, calling on them to take the president’s message seriously and to appreciate the sense of cohesion that is currently at stake. He/She stressed the necessity of upholding the values of the European Union, namely equality and citizen participation.
2 Speeches Analyzed
Regional Focus
The focus is on the local government level, emphasizing their competence in handling everyday issues like education, social welfare, and transport. Furthermore, the subject is addressed at the national level (specifically the constitution) and the international level (covering EU values and international reputation).
2 Speeches Analyzed
Economic Views
The economic arguments are limited to the fairness argument that individuals living and paying taxes in Estonia should be able to participate in decisions concerning their living environment.
2 Speeches Analyzed
Social Issues
The primary social issue is the right to vote and the equality of citizens, standing in opposition to differentiation based on nationality or citizenship. The speaker emphasizes the promotion of integration and warns against the rise of marginalization and social divisions. He stresses the importance of guaranteeing civil rights.
2 Speeches Analyzed
Legislative Focus
The primary legislative focus is centered on opposing the draft bill to amend the constitution (536 SE), specifically regarding the restriction of voting rights in local elections. The speaker's aim is to prevent the adoption of this restrictive legislation by citing its conflict with constitutional principles.
2 Speeches Analyzed