Agenda Profile: Liina Kersna
Draft law (554 SE) on the organization of research and development activities and innovation – third reading
2025-06-17
15th Estonian Parliament, 5th session, plenary session
Political Position
The political position is one of strong support for the Research, Development and Innovation Organisation Act (554 SE), which is considered vital for making the national economy more knowledge-based. The stance is clearly policy- and structure-centric, emphasizing a distinct division of responsibilities between the Ministry of Education and Research and the Ministry of Economic Affairs and Communications. The bill is supported with the goal of ensuring a clear funding structure and the overall prosperity of society.
1 Speeches Analyzed
Topic Expertise
The speaker demonstrates expertise regarding the organization of research and development (R&D) and the specifics of the legislative process. The presentation addresses technical aspects such as the division of responsibilities between ministries, the creation of a new funding structure, and the establishment of crucial definitions (innovation, R&D, scientist). Reference is also made to implementing a new framework for R&D ethics.
1 Speeches Analyzed
Rhetorical Style
The rhetorical style is formal, affirmative, and optimistic, emphasizing the thoroughness and success of the legislative process. The speaker employs logical arguments, directly linking the adoption of the law to society becoming wealthier and the economy becoming smarter. The importance of consensus and inclusion is strongly emphasized.
1 Speeches Analyzed
Activity Patterns
The speaker's activity patterns include active participation in the work of the Culture Committee, specifically organizing engagement meetings with representatives from 15 research and development institutions. The drafting of nearly 40 amendments and their subsequent consensual vote within the committee are also noted.
1 Speeches Analyzed
Opposition Stance
While processing the current draft bill, direct opposition is not being criticized; instead, the sector's support for the legislation is emphasized. It is mentioned that universities and private research institutions were critical of the previous version, indicating that earlier criticism has been overcome through engagement.
1 Speeches Analyzed
Collaboration Style
The form of cooperation is highly inclusive and consensual, emphasizing collaboration with research and development institutions and the consensual voting process of the Culture Committee. Special thanks are extended to the officials of the Ministry of Education and Research and ethics professor Margit Sutrop for their pivotal role in reaching an agreement on the proposed amendments.
1 Speeches Analyzed
Regional Focus
The focus is on the national level, concentrating on the systematic improvement of how Estonian research and development and innovation are organized. Regional or local focus is not mentioned.
1 Speeches Analyzed
Economic Views
Economic perspectives underscore the necessity of ensuring clear organization and financing for research and development (R&D) and innovation, recognizing them as the engine of economic growth. The goal is to create a smarter economy and give society the opportunity to become wealthier.
1 Speeches Analyzed
Social Issues
Addressing social problems is linked to making the economy smarter, which in turn allows for the support of equal opportunities in education. The necessity of the legislation is also stressed for ensuring a cohesive social and healthcare system based on solidarity, as well as for preserving culture and language.
1 Speeches Analyzed
Legislative Focus
The legislative focus is currently on the draft Act on the Organization of Research, Development, and Innovation (554 SE), a bill which the speaker strongly supports. Achievements highlighted include the definition of responsibility and financing structures, and the establishment of a new ethics framework.
1 Speeches Analyzed