Session Profile: Aivar Kokk
15th Riigikogu, extraordinary session of the Riigikogu
2025-09-04
Political Position
The speaker clearly represents the positions of the Isamaa Party, consistently opposing the government's tax hikes, particularly the proposed car tax and changes to the land tax. They strongly support maintaining existing tax exemptions (specifically the exemption for land under one's residence) and demand greater transparency from the government during the budget drafting process. This stance is defined by consistent opposition to the current governing coalition and a strong focus on the necessity of regional policy and family support.
23 Speeches Analyzed
Topic Expertise
Demonstrates profound knowledge in the areas of taxation, fiscal policy, and legal procedures. Utilizes precise figures and statutory references, particularly concerning land tax and motor vehicle tax issues. Shows a strong grasp of the Riigikogu's operational structure and the procedures governing committee work. When addressing energy and regional policy topics, relies on specific facts and examples.
23 Speeches Analyzed
Rhetorical Style
They employ a direct and confrontational style, particularly when criticizing the government. The rhetoric is highly emotional, utilizing phrases such as "cynical sowing of insecurity" and "shockingly large car tax." It often relies on concrete examples (a family with six children, a child in a wheelchair) to maximize emotional impact. The overall style is direct and accusatory, especially when addressing procedural violations.
23 Speeches Analyzed
Activity Patterns
An active proposer of bills and author of parliamentary questions throughout the entire period. The frequency of participation is high, focusing primarily on committee work and plenary sessions. They consistently monitor and criticize government activity, while also presenting alternative solutions. Activity is particularly intense regarding taxation and budgetary issues.
23 Speeches Analyzed
Opposition Stance
A sharp critic of the current government coalition (Reform Party, Social Democrats, Estonia 200). The critic accuses the government of lying, procedural violations, and a lack of transparency. They are especially critical of how the work of the Riigikogu (Parliament) board and committees is organized, asserting that the opposition's views are being ignored. No willingness to compromise is evident; rather, the critic demands categorical changes.
23 Speeches Analyzed
Collaboration Style
The willingness to cooperate with the governing coalition is limited, though the party demonstrates unity with other opposition parties. It emphasizes the importance of consensus in committee work but criticizes the situation where the coalition uses its majority to override the opposition. Cooperation primarily takes place within the Isamaa faction and through supporting other opposition members.
23 Speeches Analyzed
Regional Focus
A strong focus on regional policy and the issues facing rural areas. It highlights specific examples from Jõgeva and other smaller regions. It criticizes the closure of the Endla Nature Centre and problems with public transport accessibility. It stresses that tax hikes disproportionately affect residents of rural areas, where a car is an essential means of transportation.
23 Speeches Analyzed
Economic Views
Consistently opposes tax increases and supports retaining tax exemptions. It criticizes the plans for a car tax, an increase in land tax, and an increase in VAT (Value Added Tax). It stresses that tax hikes damage the investment capacity of businesses and demands that budget balance be achieved without raising taxes. It supports the stability of the economic environment and planning certainty for businesses.
23 Speeches Analyzed
Social Issues
It focuses primarily on supporting families, especially large families, and people with disabilities. It criticizes the impact of the car tax on families with children and people with disabilities. It emphasizes that for these groups, a car is not a luxury but an essential necessity. Furthermore, it supports the preservation of social protection and criticizes the Social Minister's attitude towards organizations representing people with disabilities.
23 Speeches Analyzed
Legislative Focus
An active submitter of legislative initiatives, focusing on tax reform and increasing budgetary transparency. Consistently presents bills aimed at repealing the car tax, reforming the land tax, and amending the State Budget Act. Demands compliance with procedural requirements and the alignment of laws with the Constitution. Emphasizes the need to strengthen the Riigikogu’s role in budgetary oversight.
23 Speeches Analyzed