Agenda Profile: Aleksei Jevgrafov
Report by the Minister of Economic Affairs and Information Technology on the implementation of the state's long-term development strategy "Estonia 2035"
2024-04-09
15th Riigikogu, 3rd sitting, plenary session
Political Position
The speaker strongly opposes the government's economic policy, stressing the urgent need to address the recession, unemployment, and poverty, rather than focusing on the long-term strategy "Eesti 2035." The political stance is results- and policy-driven, criticizing the coalition (Reform Party, Eesti 200, SDE) for breaking pre-election promises and implementing massive tax increases. The primary concerns are the rapid impoverishment of the population and the accelerating growth of the national debt.
1 Speeches Analyzed
Topic Expertise
The speaker demonstrates expertise in macroeconomics and social statistics, citing forecasts from the Bank of Estonia and detailed data from Statistics Estonia regarding relative and absolute poverty. Specific figures are utilized concerning poverty thresholds and the number of affected individuals. Furthermore, emphasis is placed on the necessity of boosting the international competitiveness and added value of businesses. This expertise is specifically directed at highlighting the negative socio-economic consequences resulting from government policy.
1 Speeches Analyzed
Rhetorical Style
The rhetorical style is sharply critical and forceful, contrasting the minister's "beautiful numbers" with the harsh economic indicators of real life. Strong logical argumentation is employed, supported by detailed statistical data, combined with emotional appeals to protect the poor, pensioners, and large families. The speech concludes with a direct challenge to the coalition and a patriotic rallying cry: "Stand tall, Estonia!"
1 Speeches Analyzed
Activity Patterns
The speaker actively participates in Riigikogu debates, using the platform to provide detailed criticism of the government’s economic policy and tax hikes. References are made to previous government reports (Kaja Kallas 2022) and recent interviews with experts (Madis Müller). The faction has submitted draft legislation proposing alternative taxes.
1 Speeches Analyzed
Opposition Stance
The main opponents are the governing coalition, led by the Reform Party, who are accused of poor economic management and implementing tax increases that contradict their election promises. The criticism is intense and policy-driven, accusing the government of "reaching into people's pockets" and serving the interests of the wealthier segment of society. The possibility of compromise is not mentioned; instead, there is a demand for sound decision-making.
1 Speeches Analyzed
Collaboration Style
Cooperation is mentioned within the faction, referencing the draft laws jointly submitted to the Riigikogu for establishing a bank tax and a digital services tax. There is no information regarding openness to compromises or cross-party cooperation with the government, as the stance is strongly oppositional.
1 Speeches Analyzed
Regional Focus
The focus is strictly national, addressing the overall state of the Estonian economy and the well-being of its population within the context of the international division of labor and competitiveness. There is no specific regional emphasis or mention of local projects.
1 Speeches Analyzed
Economic Views
Economic policy focuses on the state borrowing for investments, assisting businesses, and preserving jobs during an economic recession. The speaker strongly opposes raising consumption taxes and income tax, while simultaneously advocating for the introduction of a bank tax and a digital services tax to finance crucial investments and social spending. Emphasis is placed on the need to increase the added value and productivity of companies in order to raise wages.
1 Speeches Analyzed
Social Issues
The main social focus is the rapid increase in poverty and income inequality, particularly among the elderly living alone and families with children. The speaker strongly opposes cutting benefits for large families, abolishing free public transport, and the idea of taxing the average pension, emphasizing social justice and humanity.
1 Speeches Analyzed
Legislative Focus
The legislative focus is on reversing the government's tax increases and social cuts, and finding alternative sources of revenue. The speaker’s faction has initiated bills to introduce a bank tax and a digital services tax to secure funding for crucial investments, such as salary increases for teachers and emergency workers, and road construction.
1 Speeches Analyzed