Agenda Profile: Ester Karuse

The political position is strongly focused on security, emphasizing unwavering support for Ukraine and the need to strengthen the EU-NATO security architecture to reduce excessive dependence on the US. At the same time, there is sharp criticism of the government's actions in foreign trade policy, particularly the cancellation of participation in Expo 2025 and the closing of consulates in the US, which is framed as a major mistake. The viewpoints are both value-based (democracy, rules-based order) and results-based (economic recession, export promotion). The speaker also calls for an immediate ceasefire in the Gaza Strip, stressing the imperative of protecting the civilian population.

The speaker demonstrates expertise in European security architecture, transatlantic relations, and diplomatic strategy, employing concepts such as "Achilles' heel" and referencing the rules-based world order. This professional knowledge is also evident in the analysis of the strategic importance of foreign trade policy and consular services, with reference to the Estonian Foreign Policy Development Plan up to 2030. Furthermore, statistical data on the gender pay gap is utilized, noting its increase to 17.7% in 2022.

The rhetorical style is formal, serious, and pressing, especially when describing security threats, employing phrases such as "the horrors of war" and "harsh reality." Both logical arguments are utilized (references to declining exports, inconsistencies in the development plan) and emotional appeals (the outrage of the Estonian community, the cost paid by innocent people). The style is analytical, but it also includes sharp critical assessments of the government's decisions.

The speaker is actively participating in the Riigikogu debate on a matter of significant national importance concerning foreign policy. Reference is made to the recent speech by European Parliament President Roberta Metsola, demonstrating relevance to current events. The request for additional time is noted, indicating a desire to address the topic thoroughly and expand upon their positions.

The main opposition is aimed at the current government and the foreign minister, criticizing their decisions regarding the reduction of foreign trade and diplomatic representation in the US. The criticism is policy-based, accusing the government of acting contrary to the development plan and maintaining a state of "voluntary isolation." Furthermore, there is sharp criticism directed at EU member states, whose "petty individual interests" threaten the security of Eastern Europe.

The speaker stressed the vital importance of cooperation both among European countries and within the EU when tackling security, cyber threats, and migration crises, calling for a unified effort. The joint pavilion of Latvia and Lithuania at the Osaka Expo was cited as a positive example of this cooperation. Furthermore, the Social Democratic Party was referenced as the only party that has thoroughly addressed the issue of the gender pay gap, suggesting cross-party recognition on certain issues.

The focus is predominantly international and global, centering on European security, the war in Ukraine, and the vulnerability of the Baltic states. Specific geographical focuses include the USA (New York, San Francisco consulates), Japan (the Osaka Expo), and the Middle East crisis hotspot (the Gaza Strip). Emphasis is placed on protecting Estonian interests abroad and engaging Estonian communities in the USA.

Strongly supports an export-oriented foreign trade policy, the attraction of investments, and innovation projects, while criticizing the government’s decision to withdraw from participating in the Osaka Expo. It is emphasized that the Ministry of Foreign Affairs’ task is to open doors for Estonian companies, which points to strong support for advancing business interests during an economic recession.

The only social topic addressed is gender equality and the wage gap, which is considered a crucial part of the European value space. Dissatisfaction is expressed regarding the widening of the wage gap (17.7%), and there is an urgent demand that men and women receive equal pay for equal work.

The legislative focus is directed towards demanding the fulfillment of the objectives set out in existing national strategies, such as the foreign policy development plan up to 2030. The speaker criticizes government decisions that contradict the development plan (the closing of consulates, abandoning the Expo). There is a demand for improving the availability of consular services and implementing the necessary measures to reduce the gender pay gap.