Agenda Profile: Andrei Korobeinik
First Reading of the Draft Resolution of the Riigikogu "Making a Proposal to the Government of the Republic Regarding the Imposition of a Temporary Solidarity Tax on the Banking Sector" (367 OE)
2024-05-08
15th Riigikogu, 3rd session, plenary session.
Political Position
The political stance is strongly opposed to the government's economic policy, highlighting the state budget deficit and its overall failure. The main priority is the introduction of a temporary solidarity tax on the banking sector to secure state budget revenue and prevent unfair tax hikes. This position is strongly value-driven, emphasizing the injustice of taking money from the less affluent (pensioners, large families) during a crisis while simultaneously granting tax benefits to the wealthy.
13 Speeches Analyzed
Topic Expertise
The speaker demonstrates expertise in fiscal policy and the taxation of the banking sector, citing specific figures (a billion-euro deficit, 500 million from the bank tax) and economic mechanisms (the impact of Euribor, capital outflow). They draw comparisons with the tax policies of Lithuania and Scandinavian countries, explaining how low taxation in Estonia stifles investment. The specific detail regarding tax loss carry-forward is also mentioned.
13 Speeches Analyzed
Rhetorical Style
The rhetorical style is sharply critical, urgent, and at times moralizing, stressing the government's incompetence and injustice. Both logical arguments (the example of Lithuania, economic decline) and emotional appeals are employed (taxing pensioners and children to benefit the wealthy). The speaker supports their position with critical assessments from former prime ministers (Ansip) and colleagues (Reinsalu).
13 Speeches Analyzed
Activity Patterns
The patterns of activity are restricted to this specific Riigikogu session and the debate on the draft bill, during which the speaker presented a report and answered questions. The speaker was also an active questioner regarding the session's procedural matters. Information is lacking concerning other activities, such as meetings or regular public appearances.
13 Speeches Analyzed
Opposition Stance
The standoff is directed against the Reform Party and Prime Minister Kaja Kallas, who stand accused of economic policy failure, breaking promises, and the unfair political choice to protect Scandinavian banks. The criticism is intense, arguing that the government should resign due to its failures, and specifically accusing Kallas of making a personal choice to protect the banks.
13 Speeches Analyzed
Collaboration Style
The speaker is seeking support for their initiative, noting that EKRE also has a similar draft bill and hinting at potential cooperation within the opposition. No willingness to compromise with the coalition was expressed; instead, they were called upon to admit their mistakes and adopt the necessary decisions. Hope was expressed for broad support when the bill is passed.
13 Speeches Analyzed
Regional Focus
The focus is primarily on the national economic crisis and budgetary issues, alongside an international comparison (Lithuania, Sweden, Finland). On a regional level, the negative impact of the car tax on residents of rural areas and large families is highlighted, underscoring the vulnerability of rural populations to the government's tax policy.
13 Speeches Analyzed
Economic Views
Our economic views are focused on solidarity and progressive taxation, demanding that bank super-profits be taxed and opposing tax benefits aimed at the wealthy. During a crisis, the state must intervene to assist the poorer segments of society, because the opposite policy (favoring the rich) only increases inequality and damages the economic flow.
13 Speeches Analyzed
Social Issues
Social issues are tied to economic inequality and the protection of vulnerable groups. The speaker sharply criticizes the reduction of family benefits, the income taxation of pensions, and the sugar tax—which effectively takes money from children—contrasting these measures with the immunity afforded to bank profits.
13 Speeches Analyzed
Legislative Focus
The primary legislative focus is initiating and supporting the Riigikogu draft resolution (367 OE), which proposes that the government introduce a temporary solidarity tax on the banking sector. A significant focus is also placed on opposing the government's tax package (the car tax and the taxation of pensions).
13 Speeches Analyzed