Agenda Profile: Rene Kokk

The political position is strongly nationalist and conservative, focusing on protecting Estonian land and food security from foreign ownership. The necessity of restricting real estate acquisition by citizens of third countries is emphasized in the name of security and economic stabilization. They support EKRE coming to power and a long period of governance in order to steer state agencies back toward a course that values the Estonian people, opposing the ideology of the "deep state." The policy is strongly value-based, emphasizing the role of the Estonian citizen as a defender of the state, one who possesses property and roots.

The speaker demonstrates expertise in the regulations governing real estate acquisition, the agricultural and forest land market, and environmental policy. Detailed proposals are presented (B1 language proficiency level, 5-year residency requirement), and European land prices are cited for comparison (the Netherlands, Finland). The speaker’s experience as a former Minister of the Environment is highlighted separately, criticizing the role of the Ministry of Climate in prioritizing economic interests over the protection of environmental aspects.

The style is defensive, forceful, and straightforward. It combines logical argumentation (citing the content of the law and market prices) with emotional appeals (the defense of the nation-state and private property). Strong language is employed ("dark money," "tainting the land market," "the deep state"), and landowners are offered practical advice rooted in "peasant wisdom" (to rent, not to sell). The overall tone is one of concern and warning, particularly regarding security and environmental issues.

The operational pattern is centered on the first reading of Draft Act (321 SE) in the Riigikogu session hall and responding to related inquiries. The speaker actively engages in the debates, addressing both the substantive questions regarding the bill and broader subjects (wind farms, the management of government agencies).

The criticism targets the policies of the ruling coalition, which have resulted in a severe economic downturn and forced citizens to sell their land. The critique is particularly sharp regarding the ideological "deep state" entrenched within government agencies, which is preventing the country from shifting toward a nationalistic course. There is also opposition to foreigners, particularly citizens and entrepreneurs from third countries (Russia, Belarus), who are acquiring land in a manner that constitutes a security threat.

Regarding cooperation, hope is expressed that the coalition will engage and support the bill, which is crucial from a security standpoint, demonstrating this with their vote. They remain open to proposals and discussions during the legislative process, but the overall tone suggests a preference for confrontation with the current political direction.

The focus is primarily on the national level (Estonian land, food security) and the international level, comparing Estonia’s situation with the regulations in neighboring countries (Finland, Latvia, Lithuania). Special emphasis is placed on the security threat posed by being a neighbor to Russia and Belarus.

The economic views are protectionist, aiming to shield Estonian farmers and land from foreign capital that distorts the market and puts local businesses at a disadvantage. It is stressed that land prices are significantly cheaper compared to the European average, which creates pressure for large-scale buyouts. Advice is offered to rent the land to energy developers as a means of preserving long-term ownership.

The focus of these social issues is tied to requirements concerning proficiency in the official state language and residency (specifically, B1 level and five years of residence in Estonia) as a prerequisite for acquiring agricultural land. This directly links property rights and economic activity with state loyalty and integration, underscoring the idea that owning assets motivates a citizen to defend the country.

The primary legislative priority is the adoption of Bill 321 SE (the Draft Act amending the Act on Restrictions on the Acquisition of Immovable Property), which aims to restrict the acquisition of agricultural and forest land by foreigners. The speaker is the initiator and a strong proponent of the bill. Furthermore, he expresses concern regarding legislation that relaxes the requirements for establishing wind farms in Natura sites and other protected areas.