Agenda Profile: Andrei Korobeinik
Draft law amending the Enterprise Income Tax Simplification Act, the Security Tax Act, and the Income Tax Act (645 SE) – First Reading
2025-05-20
15th Riigikogu, 5th session, plenary sitting
Political Position
The political stance is strongly opposed to the economic policy of the current government (the Reform Party and Eesti 200), emphasizing Estonia's three consecutive years holding the last position in EU economic growth. The primary focus is on reversing the recent tax increases and implementing alternative solutions, such as a bank tax and progressive income tax. Attention is centered on the narrative of government incompetence and misleading the public, a narrative that is strongly performance-based.
4 Speeches Analyzed
Topic Expertise
The speaker demonstrates proficiency in macroeconomics and fiscal policy, citing Estonian economic indicators within the EU context and directly linking tax increases to the economic recession. Technical terms are employed, such as "progressive income tax," "recessionary spiral," and "tax-free minimum," with an explanation of their impact on consumption. The expertise is supported by comparisons with other countries (Finland) and statistical claims (last place three years in a row).
4 Speeches Analyzed
Rhetorical Style
The rhetorical style is highly combative, accusatory, and sarcastic, especially when directed at the government, which is accused of lying and incompetence. Strong emotional appeals are employed, referencing "economic ruin" and the "taxation of the poorest people." Ironic metaphors are used to attack opponents, such as the government being led by Vladimir Putin and "the riders of the apocalypse."
4 Speeches Analyzed
Activity Patterns
The speaker was very active during the Riigikogu session, posing several questions and delivering a longer speech during the first reading of the draft legislation (Bill 645 SE). This pattern of activity indicates a focus on debates concerning important draft bills, during which proposals are put forward on behalf of the parliamentary group. Further information regarding regular appearances or other activities is lacking.
4 Speeches Analyzed
Opposition Stance
The main opponents are the Reform Party and Eesti 200 government, along with Finance Minister Jürgen Ligi, who is directly accused of destroying the economy and misleading the public regarding tax increases. The criticism is intense and encompasses both political (tax increases) and personal accusations (lying, lack of mandate). Compromise is ruled out, as the Centre Faction proposes to reject the draft bill.
4 Speeches Analyzed
Collaboration Style
The speaker is acting on behalf of the Centre Faction, proposing that the draft bill be rejected, and hopes that other Riigikogu members will join this proposal. Reference is made to earlier cooperation (Jüri Ratas together with the Social Democrats and Isamaa), but the style in the current debate is purely oppositional. There is a complete lack of openness to compromise with the government.
4 Speeches Analyzed
Regional Focus
The focus is on national economic policy and Estonia's position within the European Union, highlighting comparisons with other member states (Finland). International influencers (Putin, Trump) are also addressed. There are no references to specific regional or local problems within Estonia.
4 Speeches Analyzed
Economic Views
The economic outlook is focused on redistributing the tax burden, supporting the implementation of a progressive income tax and a tax on bank profits. They are strongly opposed to raising taxes during an economic crisis, as this destroys consumption and slows down the economy. Furthermore, they demand a reduction in the public sector and the curbing of cost growth.
4 Speeches Analyzed
Social Issues
There is insufficient data. The topics discussed mainly concern fiscal policy, but it is emphasized that the government's policy taxes "the poorest people," which indicates concern about social inequality.
4 Speeches Analyzed
Legislative Focus
The legislative focus is currently on rejecting Draft Bill 645 SE (the tax package), which would make the temporary security tax permanent. The speaker emphasizes the need to initiate legislation establishing a bank profit tax and a progressive income tax, as well as reducing the public sector.
4 Speeches Analyzed