Agenda Profile: Andrei Korobeinik
Draft law amending the Unemployment Insurance Act and, in consequence thereof, amending other laws (519 SE) – third reading
2025-05-14
15th Riigikogu, 5th sitting, plenary session
Political Position
The speaker is in strong opposition to the draft amendment of the Unemployment Insurance Act (519 SE), viewing it as an attack on the weakest societal groups. This is a value-driven position focused on social protection, emphasizing that the coalition lacks the popular mandate to implement such changes. The bill is opposed as the dismantling of the Estonian labor market and economy.
2 Speeches Analyzed
Topic Expertise
The speaker demonstrates knowledge in the field of labor market services and social security, focusing on the systemic impact of unemployment benefits and the training programs offered by the Unemployment Insurance Fund (Töötukassa). It is emphasized that young people are deprived of both financial support and training opportunities, which indicates an understanding of the detailed consequences of the legislation.
2 Speeches Analyzed
Rhetorical Style
The style is highly combative, critical, and emotional, employing strong language such as "attacked," "dismantle," and "old course." There is an appeal to core values (the protection of the weak), and it is stressed that the coalition lacks a popular mandate (referencing the 44.5% election result and the 20% approval rating). The text concludes by urging coalition members to "show the red light," which communicates an urgent and confrontational tone.
2 Speeches Analyzed
Activity Patterns
The data is limited to two speeches delivered in the Riigikogu chamber on May 14, 2025, concerning the third reading of the draft Unemployment Insurance Act. Other patterns of activity, such as meetings or regular appearances, are not evident from the speeches.
2 Speeches Analyzed
Opposition Stance
The main opponents are the Reform Party and Eesti 200, who are accused of continuing the previous coalition’s (led by the Social Democrats) attacks against vulnerable groups. The criticism is policy- and performance-based, accusing them of dismantling the Estonian labor market and disregarding the popular mandate. The Social Democrats are sharply criticized for initiating the draft bill and discovering its flaws only at a very late stage.
2 Speeches Analyzed
Collaboration Style
The speaker commends the colleague’s address and expresses satisfaction regarding the Social Democrats' belated change of heart, hinting at potential cooperation within the opposition. Furthermore, members of the coalition are urged to vote against the draft bill, demonstrating a desire to garner support even from the opposing side, while stressing the hope that reasonable people exist within the Reform Party.
2 Speeches Analyzed
Regional Focus
Rural residents are brought up in relation to previous criticism of the car tax, suggesting some consideration for regional issues and large families. The primary focus, however, remains on national social policy and the labor market.
2 Speeches Analyzed
Economic Views
The speaker is a strong advocate for labor and social protection, opposing measures that cut unemployment benefits and training opportunities. Earlier, criticism was leveled against the income tax on pensions and the car tax, signaling opposition to increasing the tax burden on vulnerable groups and expressing concern about undermining the economy.
2 Speeches Analyzed
Social Issues
The social focus is aimed at protecting vulnerable groups targeted by government policy. These include young people, single mothers, people with disabilities, pensioners, and large families, indicating a strong commitment to social justice and the protection of the weaker members of society.
2 Speeches Analyzed
Legislative Focus
The primary legislative focus is opposing the draft Act (519 SE) on the Amendment of the Unemployment Insurance Act and Related Amendments to Other Acts. The speaker is a staunch opponent of the bill and supports its rejection in order to protect groups who would be deprived of unemployment benefits and training.
2 Speeches Analyzed