Agenda Profile: Andrei Korobeinik
Draft Security Tax Act (512 SE) – First Reading
2024-10-16
15th Riigikogu, 4th session, plenary sitting
Political Position
The political focus centers on the transparency of the security tax and the accountability of public finances. The speaker questions both the economic rationale for implementing the tax (which involves blaming previous governments) and the targeted use of the collected funds in the defense sector. The stance is strongly critical of the government’s actions, demanding concrete evidence and accountability.
2 Speeches Analyzed
Topic Expertise
The speaker demonstrates expertise in national defense financing and macroeconomics, citing specific figures and the standing of economic growth within the European Union. He is familiar with the details discussed in the Finance Committee and is capable of contrasting the claims made by the Minister of Defense and other political actors regarding the allocation of taxpayer funds. Specifically, emphasis is placed on the necessity of knowing whether the funds are allocated directly to the Minister of Defense's area of responsibility or to national defense more broadly.
2 Speeches Analyzed
Rhetorical Style
The rhetorical style is direct, analytical, and challenging, utilizing questions to test the credibility of the opponent's claims. An ironic tone is employed, referencing the "bomb left by previous governments" which has just detonated while in the hands of the Reform Party. The tone is formal and focuses on the political and economic context, demanding clarification of the details.
2 Speeches Analyzed
Activity Patterns
The speaker is actively involved in the legislative process, participating in the Riigikogu chamber during the first reading of the draft bill by posing questions. He/She referenced his/her work on the Finance Committee, where the specific purpose of the tax was discussed, with the Minister of Defense in attendance.
2 Speeches Analyzed
Opposition Stance
The speaker is in strong opposition to the government, criticizing the Reform Party’s economic policy and questioning the credibility of the Minister of Defence’s (Hanno Pevkur) claims regarding the allocation of taxpayer funds. The criticism targets both political narratives (such as "living in debt") and specific details of the legislation. Opponents are accused of blaming previous governments for the current economic crisis.
2 Speeches Analyzed
Collaboration Style
The speaker uses the claims of a right-wing party (which is not represented in parliament) to support their arguments and cast doubt on the government's official data. This indicates a readiness to utilize information from extra-parliamentary forces as well, for the purpose of criticizing the government. Direct cooperation with colleagues within the parliament is not mentioned.
2 Speeches Analyzed
Regional Focus
There is insufficient data.
2 Speeches Analyzed
Economic Views
Economic perspectives emphasize fiscal responsibility and the transparent, earmarked use of tax revenue. The speaker casts doubt on the government's claims regarding the country's long-term debt sustainability, citing Estonia's robust economic growth following the COVID crisis and its relatively low debt burden. He demands an explanation as to why the economic situation deteriorated so rapidly specifically under the current government.
2 Speeches Analyzed
Social Issues
Not enough data.
2 Speeches Analyzed
Legislative Focus
The primary legislative focus is the Draft Security Tax Law (Bill 512 SE), to which the speaker stands as a critical opponent. The objective is to clarify the intended purpose of the total tax revenue and to dispute the economic rationale behind the bill's implementation. He/She is actively participating in the debate during the bill's first reading.
2 Speeches Analyzed