Session Profile: Andrei Korobeinik
The 15th Riigikogu, extraordinary session of the Riigikogu.
2024-07-29
Political Position
The political position is firmly against the government's tax hikes, especially the car tax, emphasizing that this choice will lead to economic recession and instability. Criticism is directed at the government's poor economic performance and the deterioration of Estonia's standing among the Baltic states. The speaker frames their views in performance-based terms, warning that the government will go down in history as having failed to deliver economic growth.
5 Speeches Analyzed
Topic Expertise
The speaker demonstrates competence in state finance and budgetary matters, citing the economic downturn, budget holes, and specific amounts lost (two billion). Furthermore, he possesses a thorough understanding of Riigikogu procedures, evidenced by his role as Vice-Chairman of the Finance Committee and his references to the rules governing the session ("the yellow book").
5 Speeches Analyzed
Rhetorical Style
The style is predominantly combative and critical, using economic arguments mixed with emotional appeals in defense of poorer and disabled people. The speaker uses irony and sarcasm, especially when joking about the 9-cent increase in benefits and asking for a 9-second break. Regarding procedural matters, the tone is demanding and detailed, challenging the chair's interpretations.
5 Speeches Analyzed
Activity Patterns
The speaker was active during the Riigikogu session, delivering a substantive address opposing the car tax, as well as raising several procedural questions with the presiding officer concerning the request for a recess. Their activity centered on legislative opposition and monitoring compliance with the rules.
5 Speeches Analyzed
Opposition Stance
The main opposition is directed at the Reform Party and Prime Ministers Kaja Kallas and Kristen Michal, who are accused of abandoning economic growth and allowing the country to turn into a province. The criticism is intense, sharp both politically and personally, and also highlights the insensitive attitude of coalition partner Annely Akkermann towards pensioners. There is no sign of a willingness to compromise; instead, there are promises to reverse the tax.
5 Speeches Analyzed
Collaboration Style
There is not enough data.
5 Speeches Analyzed
Regional Focus
The focus is on national economic policy and international comparison, highlighting Estonia's economic lagging behind the other Baltic states (Latvia, Lithuania) and its position as the last in the European Union regarding economic growth. The regional focus is therefore at the macro level and comparative.
5 Speeches Analyzed
Economic Views
These economic views are strongly opposed to tax increases, especially during an economic crisis, arguing that they hit the poorest citizens hardest and suppress economic growth. They advocate for policies that promote economic growth and criticize the government-created budget deficits that lead to reduced public spending on infrastructure (roads), defense, and social services. The consequences of these tax hikes are described as "unbuilt roads, stagnant teacher salaries, and lower pensions."
5 Speeches Analyzed
Social Issues
In social matters, the economic policy focuses on its effect on vulnerable groups, such as the poor, pensioners, and people with disabilities. It sharply criticizes the symbolic rise in benefits (9 cents) given a situation where tax hikes are hitting these groups particularly hard. Furthermore, it defends the funding of the social sector (pensions, child benefits) against budget cuts.
5 Speeches Analyzed
Legislative Focus
The legislative focus is on opposing the implementation of the car tax and highlighting its negative economic consequences. Procedurally, he concentrates on the rules governing the conduct of the Riigikogu session and their interpretation, while serving as the Deputy Chairman of the Finance Committee.
5 Speeches Analyzed