Agenda Profile: Aleksei Jevgrafov
First reading of the draft resolution of the Riigikogu, "Submitting a proposal to the Government of the Republic to close the temporary control line between the Republic of Estonia and the Russian Federation" (562 OE)
2025-03-20
15th Riigikogu, 5th session, plenary session
Political Position
The political position is firmly opposed to the border closure bill (562 OE), viewing it as a populist and futile measure that fails to address security concerns. This stance is heavily focused on maintaining humanitarian connections and resolving the practical issues faced by local residents when crossing the border. The political framework is primarily results-oriented, highlighting the government's failure to manage border queues effectively.
2 Speeches Analyzed
Topic Expertise
The speaker demonstrates detailed expertise regarding border management and customs control procedures in Narva, highlighting specific data concerning the reduction in throughput capacity and the length of queues. Technical details are employed, such as the impact of full customs control on bus passengers and the underlying reasons for the closure of the Narva 2 border crossing point. This expertise is further supported by citing the security threat assessments made by former Minister of the Interior Lauri Läänemets.
2 Speeches Analyzed
Rhetorical Style
The rhetorical style is critical, detailed, and argumentative, utilizing logical appeals grounded in facts (queues, bus overcrowding). Simultaneously, sharp and accusatory language is employed, labeling the initiators of the draft law as populists and their proposal "pointless." The tone is serious, emphasizing humanitarian and social issues.
2 Speeches Analyzed
Activity Patterns
The speaker actively participates in the first reading of the Riigikogu bill, presenting both questions and lengthy objections. These patterns of activity demonstrate consistent engagement with border management topics, citing previous, unsupported proposals (e.g., the inspection of bus passengers in Sillamäe).
2 Speeches Analyzed
Opposition Stance
Strong opposition is aimed at the initiator of the draft legislation (Isamaa), who is being accused of taking a populist step and politicizing the entire issue. Criticism is also directed at the former Minister of the Interior, Lauri Läänemets, who blamed the residents of Narva for the border issues. The opposition is twofold: both political (accusations of populism) and policy-based (a rejection of the security arguments).
2 Speeches Analyzed
Collaboration Style
The speaker points to failed cooperation, noting that their earlier proposals (such as arranging customs control for bus passengers in Sillamäe or providing a roof for the queue) did not gain support. Rather than showing a readiness to compromise, specific alternative solutions (the reopening of Narva 2) are being put forward. This suggests a desire to improve the situation, but not necessarily to work together with the initiators of the draft bill.
2 Speeches Analyzed
Regional Focus
There is a strong regional focus on Narva and, more broadly, Ida-Virumaa, emphasizing the daily lives and humanitarian problems of the residents of this border city. Separately, mention is made of citizens of the Republic of Estonia living in Petserimaa who cross the border for work and to visit relatives. It is emphasized that closing the border would sever these local ties.
2 Speeches Analyzed
Economic Views
The economic perspective centers on the continuation of legal trade with Russia despite sanctions, noting that closing the border would affect this. Direct positions on taxes, budget discipline, or broader economic policy issues have not been presented.
2 Speeches Analyzed
Social Issues
The speaker heavily stresses humanitarian concerns regarding the ability to visit the graves of family and relatives in Russia. Furthermore, the right of Russian citizens to seek refuge in Estonia from Putin's policies is defended. Warnings are raised against government actions—such as the campaign targeting the EOC and the revocation of voting rights—which risk escalating tensions in the Ida-Viru region.
2 Speeches Analyzed
Legislative Focus
The legislative focus is on opposing Riigikogu Draft Resolution 562 OE, which concerns the closure of the temporary control line. Alternative priorities proposed include considering the 24/7 opening of the Narva border crossing point and the reopening of the Narva 2 pedestrian border crossing point for Estonian citizens and individuals holding residence permits.
2 Speeches Analyzed