By Months: Ando Kiviberg

The cooperative approach shows a willingness to support necessary legislation, but at the same time demands transparency and clear arguments concerning specific amendments. Cooperation is conditional and hinges on receiving explanations, particularly regarding the discussions held within the committee.

He/She emphasizes cooperation in committee work and listening to experts (both the President's legal advisors and representatives of the ministries) for making well-considered decisions. Regarding the Church Act, an initial attempt was made to find common ground with the President's Office, but ultimately, the decision was made to proceed with re-adoption in its unamended form. Concerning the Money Laundering Prevention Act, he/she agreed with the positions of the ministries and the President and supported amending the law.

The speaker is open to collaborating on improving the draft legislation, urging colleagues to put forward constructive ideas. He stresses that the draft law concerning the election of the President was compiled by 37 members of parliament, signaling a willingness for a broad-based initiative. Nevertheless, he adopts a very defensive stance during the debate and insists that the person responding be given the opportunity to answer fully without being heckled.

The style of cooperation is open and consensual, seeking to find common ground with both the Office of the President and the Ministry of the Interior. He/She stressed that the Constitutional Committee decided consensually not to support the re-adoption of the law in its unchanged form. The speaker considers an agreement possible and is personally prepared to take steps to reach a solution that would be acceptable to the President.

Works closely with ministries (the Ministry of the Interior, the Ministry of Justice) and stakeholders within the framework of the commission, transmitting their positions to the plenary session. Supports the stance of the Eesti 200 parliamentary group regarding the draft Ecclesiastical Law. As a facilitator of the commission's discussions, the individual/entity is open to conveying diverse viewpoints and advocates for the inclusion of experts to obtain answers.

The style of cooperation is consensual and emphasizes unity, particularly in critical issues that demand resolve. Procedural decisions concerning the whistleblower protection bill were reached by consensus. Regarding the constitutional amendment, heartfelt thanks are extended to the majority of parties represented in the Riigikogu for setting aside their mutual disagreements and offering their support, while also calling upon those who are hesitant to join.

The speaker represents the views of the Eesti 200 faction and expresses satisfaction with the excellent work accomplished by colleagues (Ms. Pakosta). They are pragmatic, choosing "half a measure" (the restriction of voting rights for citizens of aggressor states) over nothing at all in the matter of suffrage, given the lack of support for a full agreement (which would also encompass stateless persons).

Regarding the education bill, the speaker emphasizes their sincere pleasure at reaching a consensus, which signals a readiness for cooperation on strategic issues. In development cooperation with partner countries, the respect for the host nations’ right to self-determination and freedom of choice is always stressed, demonstrating a partnership founded on the principle of non-interference.