Agenda Profile: Andrei Korobeinik
Inquiry regarding the construction of Via Baltica (no. 734)
2025-05-19
15th Riigikogu, Fifth Session, Plenary Session.
Political Position
The political position centers on a strong demand for the four-laning of Via Baltica, justifying this necessity from the standpoint of both economic revitalization and national defense. The speaker sharply criticizes the Reform Party government for canceling previous infrastructure projects (such as the Centre Party’s 2030 plan) and for seeking an exemption from the European Union to avoid the construction. The overall framework is heavily policy-driven, highlighting the government’s failure to implement crucial infrastructure projects.
4 Speeches Analyzed
Topic Expertise
The speaker demonstrates knowledge of the history and financing of major infrastructure projects (Via Baltica, Rail Baltic, Haapsalu railway, Tallinn Hospital), referencing the plans of previous governments. On budgetary topics, the speaker is precise, highlighting a specific budget metric (road safety) and estimating the cost of the "benefit for the wealthy" (over half a billion euros), emphasizing its impact on infrastructure investments.
4 Speeches Analyzed
Rhetorical Style
The tone is confrontational and critical, aimed particularly at the government and the prime minister. They are accused of making poor choices and employing misleading narratives (for instance, blaming Putin for influencing the budget formulation). The text utilizes rhetorical questions ("Was the Mayor of Pärnu duped?") and direct accusations, blending logical arguments (budget figures, defense capability) with an emotional appeal concerning the widening societal divide.
4 Speeches Analyzed
Activity Patterns
The speaker is active in the Riigikogu's oversight mechanisms, initiating an interpellation concerning the development of Via Baltica and responding to the Prime Minister's replies. This demonstrates a focus on monitoring the government's activities and political promises.
4 Speeches Analyzed
Opposition Stance
The main criticism is directed at the Reform Party and Prime Minister Kristen Michal, who are accused of abandoning project development and incorrectly setting budget priorities. The speaker also criticizes the narrative that "Vladimir Putin is setting the Estonian budget," arguing instead that these are the government's own choices. The opposition is intense and policy-driven, accusing the government of damaging Estonia's defense capabilities and its economy.
4 Speeches Analyzed
Collaboration Style
Information regarding cooperation or willingness to compromise with other political parties is unavailable; the speaker is acting as the initiator of the interpellation and a fierce critic of government policy.
4 Speeches Analyzed
Regional Focus
There is a strong regional focus on Pärnu and the Via Baltica highway, which is considered Estonia's most important trade route and connection to the rest of Europe. In addition to the Via Baltica, other major regional projects are also mentioned, such as the Haapsalu railway and the Tallinn Hospital, indicating a broader interest in infrastructure development.
4 Speeches Analyzed
Economic Views
The speaker advocates for state investments in infrastructure projects to kickstart the economy. There is strong opposition to the government's budget choices, particularly the "handout for the rich" (exceeding half a billion euros), arguing that this widens the societal divide instead of investing in initiatives that promote economic growth.
4 Speeches Analyzed
Social Issues
We lack data concerning social issues, although economic perspectives indirectly touch upon the widening of the social divide caused by budgetary choices.
4 Speeches Analyzed
Legislative Focus
The legislative focus is on scrutinizing the government's actions through an official inquiry, demanding clarity regarding the plans for upgrading the Via Baltica to four lanes and the associated budget priorities. The objective is to compel the government to reinstate and execute previously planned infrastructure projects.
4 Speeches Analyzed