Agenda Profile: Tanel Kiik

Inquiry regarding the third year of record-low birth rates in Estonia (no. 703)

2025-03-17

15th Riigikogu, 5th session, plenary sitting

Political Position
Criticizes the government's inaction in resolving the demographic crisis. They assert that the government is failing to provide young families with the necessary support, and that ignoring the issue won't make the problem disappear.
Topic Expertise
Demonstrates a deep understanding of population policy and demographic challenges. Shows an understanding of how different policy areas affect birth rates and family support.
Rhetorical Style
It uses an emotional and cautionary tone, emphasizing the severity of the crisis through specific figures. It appeals to moral responsibility and constitutional obligations.
Activity Patterns
He/She posed questions regarding population policy and delivered a lengthy address on the subject of family policy. He/She emphasized the state's role in shaping family and population policy and criticized the government for its inaction.
Opposition Stance
Criticized the Prime Minister for ignoring the demographic crisis, accusing the government of irresponsible policy. Emphasized the importance of family policy for the future of the country.
Collaboration Style
The subject urged the government to tackle the demographic crisis, providing constructive criticism and solutions. They also underscored the necessity of implementing a systematic family policy.
Regional Focus
The speaker emphasized the importance of regional policy and criticized the government for neglecting the interests of rural areas. The focus was nationwide, but special attention was paid to regional inequality and the need to reduce it.
Economic Views
The speaker is critical of the government's economic policy, emphasizing that cutting red tape should not be the sole priority. They voice concern that the government is overly focused on reducing bureaucratic hurdles for businesses while neglecting the economic needs of families. They advocate for consistent family benefits and condemn the practice of hiking benefits right before an election only to cut them immediately afterward.

2 Speeches Analyzed
Social Issues
The speaker is deeply committed to population and family policy, stressing the critical nature of the declining birth rate (falling below 10,000 births annually). They support the equal treatment of all children, criticize the practice of pitting families against each other based on the number of children they have, and demand a systemic approach to achieving work-life balance. The speaker emphasizes that family policy is a constitutional obligation and calls for a dedicated minister to manage this portfolio. They express strong opposition to children and families being relegated to the back burner on the list of political priorities.

2 Speeches Analyzed
Legislative Focus
He/She posed questions regarding population policy and delivered a lengthy speech on family policy, criticizing the government's inaction and stressing the state's role in shaping family and population policy.