Agenda Profile: Maria Jufereva-Skuratovski

Reconsideration of the Act Amending the Act on Churches and Religious Communities (570 UA), Not Proclaimed by the President of the Republic

2025-05-14

15th Riigikogu, 5th sitting, plenary session

Political Position
The political focus centers on the legislative procedure, particularly regarding the reconsideration of the Act on Amendments to the Law on Churches and Congregations, which the President of the Republic declined to promulgate. The overall stance is moderate and procedure-focused, underscoring the necessity for a deep and substantive debate. The expressed positions are primarily aimed at ensuring the correct implementation of policy and the integrity of the proceedings.

2 Speeches Analyzed
Topic Expertise
The speaker demonstrates expertise regarding the legislative procedure and the operational structure of parliamentary committees, specifically naming the Constitutional Committee and the Legal Affairs Committee. He/She is aware of the previous substantive debate on the draft bill and specifically asks whether church representatives will be involved again in developing the amendments.

2 Speeches Analyzed
Rhetorical Style
The rhetorical style is highly formal and respectful, employing standard forms of address ("Honored Chair of the Session! Esteemed Presenter!"). The discourse is straightforward and concentrates solely on raising procedural questions, remaining analytical and strictly avoiding emotional or ideological viewpoints.

2 Speeches Analyzed
Activity Patterns
The speaker is actively involved in the legislative debate, participating in the session and posing questions regarding the procedure of a specific draft bill. They refer to previous substantive meetings and discussions, which demonstrates sustained engagement in the legislative process.

2 Speeches Analyzed
Opposition Stance
Not enough data

2 Speeches Analyzed
Collaboration Style
The speaker demonstrates a willingness to cooperate, confirming the previous substantive discussion (with Rain Epler) and inquiring whether the subsequent proceedings will be held jointly (by both committees). They are also interested in whether the Legal Affairs Committee plans to continue collaborating and meeting with external interest groups, such as church representatives and advocates.

2 Speeches Analyzed
Regional Focus
Not enough data

2 Speeches Analyzed
Economic Views
Not enough data

2 Speeches Analyzed
Social Issues
The social focus centers on proposed amendments to the Law on Churches and Congregations—a sensitive public issue. The speaker emphasizes the need to involve church representatives and advocates in the legislative process, showing a clear interest in listening to social stakeholders before the amendments are drafted.

2 Speeches Analyzed
Legislative Focus
The legislative priority is the procedural organization for the re-examination of the Act amending the Churches and Congregations Act (570 UA). The speaker is acting as an information gatherer and process clarifier, requesting specific plans for further proceedings and the identification of the responsible committee.

2 Speeches Analyzed