Session Profile: Raimond Kaljulaid
15th Riigikogu, 5th session, plenary sitting
2025-05-05
Political Position
The politician voiced strong opposition to labor reforms designed to increase flexibility, arguing that they undermine workers' situations and job security, and accused the Reform Party of pursuing the wrong policies. However, he simultaneously defended certain social reforms that have improved household livelihoods. His political framework is a blend of social concern (worker exhaustion) and the promotion of regional development (the distribution of tax revenue).
6 Speeches Analyzed
Topic Expertise
The speaker demonstrates knowledge of labor market regulations, referencing different forms of platform work, zero-hour contracts, and studies conducted by Tallinn University of Technology. They are familiar with regional policy and the debates surrounding the rationality of investments, and possess a good understanding of the Läänemaa infrastructure (specifically the health track/path) and the organization of inter-island ferry services.
6 Speeches Analyzed
Rhetorical Style
The tone is predominantly critical and demanding, especially concerning the government's reforms, where accusatory language is employed ("in the interests of sponsors"). In his argumentation, he relies both on research and facts (results of platform work) and on emotional appeal (the indignation of Hiiumaa residents). The style is formal, yet it includes personal examples (two homes, staying on Hiiumaa) used to test ideas on the minister.
6 Speeches Analyzed
Activity Patterns
The speaker is highly active during the Riigikogu plenary session, posing multiple questions to ministers on various topics all in a single day. Their pattern of activity involves both sharply criticizing existing reforms and testing new political ideas (such as the dual residency system). They also mention their frequent presence on the island of Hiiumaa.
6 Speeches Analyzed
Opposition Stance
The primary criticism targets the reforms initiated by the Reform Party and the government, which are widely seen as detrimental to the situation of workers. Opponents' motives are under suspicion, with suggestions that they are pursuing the wrong course of action, either due to ignorance or "in the interests of their sponsors." The criticism is rooted in policy and values, challenging the Reform Party's previous arguments.
6 Speeches Analyzed
Collaboration Style
The speaker showed openness to cooperation by testing his idea for two proposals with the minister, noting that they think alike on many issues. He also referred to colleagues (Madis Kallas) who share his concern about the disparity in inter-island transport.
6 Speeches Analyzed
Regional Focus
The speaker maintains a strong regional focus, particularly on Western Estonia and the islands (Hiiumaa, Saaremaa, Lääne County). Although representing Tallinn residents, he/she stresses the importance of regional balance and wants life to be worth living outside of Tallinn and Harju County as well. He/She advocates for Hiiumaa's interests regarding ferry services and for the improvement of Lääne County's infrastructure (the health trail).
6 Speeches Analyzed
Economic Views
The speaker is critical of flexible labor regulation, which leads to the underpayment of workers and a reduction in job security, arguing instead for the prioritization of the social protection of the workforce. He/She supports tax policy innovations that promote regional development, such as sharing tax revenue between two municipalities, thereby contrasting with purely economic rationality (the idea of investing only in areas yielding the highest returns).
6 Speeches Analyzed
Social Issues
It focuses on social security and employee well-being, criticizing reforms that lead to exhaustion and overwork. At the same time, it recognizes social reforms that have improved household livelihoods through the reduction of care costs.
6 Speeches Analyzed
Legislative Focus
The speaker is a staunch opponent of the ongoing labor market reform aimed at increasing flexibility. He/She is attempting to initiate a discussion on establishing new tax regulations to support regional development (specifically, the concept of dual residency) and is demanding the immediate overhaul of existing infrastructure (the Läänemaa Health Road) before the start of the tourist season.
6 Speeches Analyzed