Agenda Profile: Rene Kokk
First Reading of the Bill Amending the Act on the Restriction of Acquisition of Immovable Property (284 SE)
2024-02-07
15th Riigikogu, 3rd sitting, plenary sitting.
Political Position
The most crucial issue is national security and the response to Russia's war of aggression in Ukraine, specifically by restricting real estate acquisition in Estonia by Russian citizens who do not hold a residence permit. The political stance is strongly supportive, emphasizing the fundamental principle that such aggression and behavior must not be tolerated. This position is further reinforced by drawing analogies with other sanctions, such as those applied in sports.
4 Speeches Analyzed
Topic Expertise
The speaker demonstrates expertise regarding the Act on Restrictions on the Acquisition of Immovable Property and its subsequent amendments, referencing specific sections and subsections that also pertain to related legal entities. Statistical data is used to support the argument, highlighting a 42.2% growth in real estate acquisition by Russian citizens between 2021 and 2022. Furthermore, they are aware of analogous regulations in neighboring countries and Estonia's current restrictions in specific regions.
4 Speeches Analyzed
Rhetorical Style
The rhetorical style is serious, principled, and persuasive, emphasizing the moral and security necessity of imposing restrictions. Both logical arguments (statistics, legislative amendments) and value-based analogies (sanctioning athletes) are employed to reinforce the position. The speaker expresses hope that the draft bill will not be "killed" during the proceedings, which suggests a degree of caution regarding potential procedural obstacles.
4 Speeches Analyzed
Activity Patterns
The speaker is active in the legislative process, presenting Bill 284 SE at the first reading, which was initiated on September 20th of last year. Other activity patterns (meetings, travel) are not evident.
4 Speeches Analyzed
Opposition Stance
Specific opponents are not criticized by name, but concern is expressed that the bill might be "killed off" in committees during the legislative process. This points to possible procedural opposition or inertia that could hinder the adoption of the law.
4 Speeches Analyzed
Collaboration Style
The speaker is open to cooperation and compromise during the proceedings, demonstrating a willingness to consider the proposal to also include Belarusian citizens under the restrictions. This indicates flexibility regarding the scope of the draft legislation, provided it facilitates its further consideration.
4 Speeches Analyzed
Regional Focus
The main focus is on national security and the international context stemming from Russia's aggression in Ukraine. Existing restrictions in certain regions of Estonia (the islands, Ida-Viru County, Tartu County, Põlva County, Võru County) are also mentioned, as well as similar regulations implemented by neighboring countries.
4 Speeches Analyzed
Economic Views
Economic views focus on regulation and the imposition of restrictions in the real estate market due to security considerations. The objective is to control the acquisition of certain foreign-owned property, rather than addressing broader economic growth or tax policy.
4 Speeches Analyzed
Social Issues
The social issue under discussion relates to security and the rights of foreign nationals (specifically Russian citizens without a residence permit) in Estonia, prioritizing national security and political principle. The objective is to restrict the right of these individuals to acquire real estate in response to geopolitical aggression.
4 Speeches Analyzed
Legislative Focus
The legislative priority is Bill 284 SE, which aims to restrict the acquisition of real estate by Russian citizens in Estonia. The speaker is the initiator and a strong proponent of the bill, emphasizing the need to introduce further restrictions in addition to those already in effect.
4 Speeches Analyzed