Agenda Profile: Mario Kadastik
The Prime Minister's address for 2025 on the implementation of the long-term development strategy "Estonia 2035" (including an overview of the situation of research and development activities and the government's policy in this area).
2025-03-11
15th Riigikogu, 5th session, plenary session
Political Position
The political focus centers on the strategy for funding research and development (R&D), particularly concerning the preservation of fundamental sciences (physics, biology, chemistry). The speaker is deeply concerned that the political pendulum has swung too far toward applied sciences, thereby neglecting the foundational basis of science. This position is policy-driven, criticizing the current grant allocation mechanism for causing fragmentation.
1 Speeches Analyzed
Topic Expertise
The speaker demonstrates profound expertise in science policy and funding mechanisms, utilizing specific terminology such as basic research, applied sciences, and core competencies. They are familiar with the structure of science (the pyramid analogy) and are current on the Research Agency reform and its implications for grant allocation. This expertise is bolstered by examples of successful Estonian companies (Icosagen, Elcogen) that originated from basic research.
1 Speeches Analyzed
Rhetorical Style
The style is formal, analytical, and concerned, addressing the Prime Minister directly in the form of a question. Logical argumentation is employed, emphasizing the role of fundamental sciences as the foundation of the scientific pyramid. The tone is critical regarding the consequences of the government's policy (massive fragmentation), but remains respectful while requesting plans for solutions.
1 Speeches Analyzed
Activity Patterns
Insufficient data.
1 Speeches Analyzed
Opposition Stance
The criticism is aimed at the government's science policy and the recent reform of the Science Agency, which is accused of fragmenting funding and jeopardizing the foundational basis of basic sciences. The opposition is policy- and procedure-based, focusing specifically on the government's incorrect setting of priorities (the excessive emphasis on applied sciences).
1 Speeches Analyzed
Collaboration Style
Insufficient data.
1 Speeches Analyzed
Regional Focus
The focus is at the national level, addressing Estonia's long-term strategy for research and development and the core competencies (physics, biology, chemistry) built up over decades. Specific regional projects or local concerns are absent.
1 Speeches Analyzed
Economic Views
The economic outlook is linked to scientific investment, emphasizing that sustained economic growth and successful businesses (like Icosagen and Elcogen) depend on a robust foundation in basic sciences. The presenter advocates for strategic, long-term foundational funding rather than focusing on short-term applied research.
1 Speeches Analyzed
Social Issues
Insufficient data.
1 Speeches Analyzed
Legislative Focus
The focus is on implementing the national long-term development strategy "Eesti 2035" within the field of research and development. The speaker criticizes the government's political decisions (the reform of the Research Agency, the allocation of grants) and demands measures to preserve the foundational basis of basic research.
1 Speeches Analyzed