Agenda Profile: Andrei Korobeinik
Draft law amending the simplified taxation act for entrepreneurs and the income tax act, and repealing the security tax act – second reading
2025-06-11
15th Riigikogu, 5th session, plenary sitting
Political Position
The political stance is fiercely oppositional, centered on exposing the hypocrisy and failed economic policies of the ruling coalition (specifically the Reform Party and the Social Democrats). The primary objection targets the recent tax hikes, which are framed as benefiting the wealthy at the expense of the poor. Furthermore, the government's assertions regarding economic growth are dismissed as outright falsehoods. The political narrative is heavily results-oriented, stressing the sharp decline of the Estonian economy over the past three and a half years.
2 Speeches Analyzed
Topic Expertise
The speakers demonstrated expertise in the specifics of tax policy, discussing both the blocking of the progressive income tax and the effects of a particular draft bill (645 SE). Arguments were put forward concerning the price tag of a 2% tax increase and a tax concession for the wealthy valued at over half a billion euros. Furthermore, they showed a strong grasp of the Riigikogu's procedural order, referencing committee standpoints and the tabling of motions to adjourn proceedings.
2 Speeches Analyzed
Rhetorical Style
The style is highly combative, critical, and ironic, accusing opponents of hypocrisy and outright lying ("you lie right to people's faces"). Strong emotional appeals and comparisons are used, for example, by referencing Orwell's work "1984" and ridiculing the bill as the "draft for a bright future." The aim is to create a dramatic contrast between the government's PR messaging and the actual economic situation.
2 Speeches Analyzed
Activity Patterns
The speakers are active during Riigikogu sessions, engaging in sharp debates and utilizing procedural mechanisms. Speaker B specifically announced the submission of a motion to suspend proceedings on behalf of the Centre Faction, indicating active involvement in legislative procedures. Speaker A referenced previous events that occurred in the committee and the verbal acuity of their colleagues.
2 Speeches Analyzed
Opposition Stance
The primary conflict is with the Reform Party, which stands accused of causing the economic decline, political incompetence, and prioritizing the wealthy over the general public. The Social Democrats, meanwhile, face sharp criticism for political hypocrisy regarding the progressive income tax issue. This opposition is intense and uncompromising, fueled by the hope that the draft legislation will be scrapped should the coalition change.
2 Speeches Analyzed
Collaboration Style
The speakers are operating on behalf of the faction (the Centre Faction does not support the draft legislation), demonstrating internal coordination. Speaker A references the positions held by colleagues Läänemets and Kiik, only to then criticize them over political disagreement, thus leveraging the stances of other parties for tactical ends.
2 Speeches Analyzed
Regional Focus
Insufficient data. The focus is on national tax policy and the overall economic situation.
2 Speeches Analyzed
Economic Views
Economic views are heavily centered on tax fairness and opposition to tax hikes that impact low-income groups (pensioners, minimum wage earners). Bill 645 SE is being opposed because it takes money from everyone to fund a tax break designed for high earners. The government’s economic policy is considered a failure, specifically pointing to the current economic downturn.
2 Speeches Analyzed
Social Issues
Insufficient data. Social issues are addressed only within the context of economic inequality (favoring the rich at the expense of the poor).
2 Speeches Analyzed
Legislative Focus
The primary legislative focus is the opposition to Draft Bill 645 SE (the "Simplified Taxation of Business Income Act") during its second reading, against which a motion to suspend proceedings is being introduced. Furthermore, the absence of a progressive income tax in Estonia is highlighted, and the previous role of the Social Democrats in blocking its implementation is criticized.
2 Speeches Analyzed