Session Profile: Liina Kersna
15th Estonian Parliament, 3rd sitting, plenary session
2024-03-05
Political Position
The central topic is the implementation of education reforms, several of which are simultaneously underway (school network restructuring, vocational education, Estonian-language education). While the necessity of the reforms is supported, their introduction and management are subject to sharp criticism, citing the teachers' strike as an example, which undermined the state’s credibility. Emphasis is placed on the need for stable governance and well-thought-out reforms, focusing on both procedural and results-based approaches.
3 Speeches Analyzed
Topic Expertise
The speaker demonstrates deep expertise in the fields of education policy and reform management. Specific terminology is employed, referencing change management models and listing ongoing reforms (e.g., vocational education reform, early childhood education reform). Particular emphasis is placed on the role of support specialists (school psychologists, child protection workers) and the necessity of consulting them regarding the extension of the compulsory education age.
3 Speeches Analyzed
Rhetorical Style
The style is formal, analytical, and advisory, combining support for the Minister with careful criticism regarding the pace of reform implementation. Logical and procedural arguments are employed, emphasizing the importance of listening and justification. The discourse is occasionally elevated, highlighting the fundamental role of education in fostering social cohesion and generating wealth.
3 Speeches Analyzed
Activity Patterns
The speeches were delivered at the plenary session of the Riigikogu as part of the Minister of Education's presentation and the ensuing debate. One speaker requested additional time, on behalf of their parliamentary group, to present their views. Other activity patterns (meetings, travel) are not evident from the data.
3 Speeches Analyzed
Opposition Stance
The direct criticism is aimed squarely at the government’s actions in preventing and resolving the teachers’ strike, which is viewed as a mistake that undermines its credibility. Opponents are not being personally attacked; rather, the focus is on procedural and management failures, with warnings against "breaking" the sector entirely.
3 Speeches Analyzed
Collaboration Style
The cooperation style is emphatically inclusive, requiring reforms to be implemented in collaboration with the representative organizations of the sector. Listening and being heard are considered crucial for building a critical mass of allies committed to implementing the changes. A separate question is raised regarding the extent of consultation with school psychologists and child protection specialists.
3 Speeches Analyzed
Regional Focus
Not enough data
3 Speeches Analyzed
Economic Views
The role of education in economic growth and meeting the needs of the labor market is acknowledged, but it is stressed that education’s impact is more fundamental and far-reaching. Education should not be viewed merely as a tool for economic growth. Every euro invested in education is an investment in a smarter, happier, and wealthier society.
3 Speeches Analyzed
Social Issues
The main social issue is education, which is viewed as personal development and a transformation of the inner world. Emphasis is placed on the well-being of children and youth, particularly concerning the 700 young people who drop out of their studies every year. The goal of education is to create a better environment for the learner and contribute to the formation of a more cohesive and safer society.
3 Speeches Analyzed
Legislative Focus
The legislative focus is on sweeping education reforms that cover nearly every area, including extending the compulsory schooling age. The speaker supports these reforms but stresses the need to proceed with extreme caution and avoid damaging the sector due to overly rapid implementation.
3 Speeches Analyzed