Agenda Profile: Anastassia Kovalenko-Kõlvart
Debate on the nationally important issue "Why is food expensive?", initiated by the Estonian Centre Party faction.
2025-10-16
XV Riigikogu, VI Session, Plenary Sitting
Political Position
The political focus is on the high price of food and tax policy, strongly supporting a reduction in VAT on foodstuffs. The need to respond quickly to the popular initiative is being emphasized, and the government is criticized for its inability to deal with consumer concerns. The position is forceful and aimed at criticizing the government's action (or inaction).
2 Speeches Analyzed
Topic Expertise
The speaker demonstrates knowledge of tax policy (VAT, tax increases) and the legislative process, stressing the necessity for thorough analysis. This expertise is supported by the use of comparative data regarding VAT rates on foodstuffs across 24 European countries. Particular emphasis is placed on the government's failure to conduct analyses when implementing tax increases.
2 Speeches Analyzed
Rhetorical Style
The rhetorical style is appreciative and supportive of the proponent ("for a very humane speech"), yet sharply critical and urgent when addressing the government. Strong, negative terminology is employed to characterize the government's actions (e.g., "tax chaos," "tax circus"). The rhetoric appeals both to public expectations and to logical arguments (specifically, the absence of analyses and established European practice).
2 Speeches Analyzed
Activity Patterns
The operational framework emphasizes direct contact with the individuals who signed the popular initiative, indicating active public engagement on the matter. Urgent action is demanded from the Riigikogu.
2 Speeches Analyzed
Opposition Stance
The primary confrontation is aimed at the government, particularly the Prime Minister and the Minister of Finance. The criticism is intense, focusing on procedural errors (the absence of necessary analyses when imposing tax hikes) and political chaos (the "tax circus"). The government's stance is being contrasted with the practices observed in 24 European countries.
2 Speeches Analyzed
Collaboration Style
The cooperative style is highly supportive of the presenter of the people's initiative, who is praised for their human approach and thorough arguments. Emphasis is placed on the need for the Riigikogu to act quickly in meeting the expectations of the public. There is no information available regarding cooperation with other factions.
2 Speeches Analyzed
Regional Focus
The focus is on national tax policy and legislative activity in the Riigikogu. A significant portion of the argumentation relies on international comparison with European countries where the VAT on foodstuffs has been reduced. Regional or local focus is absent.
2 Speeches Analyzed
Economic Views
Economic perspectives strongly support providing relief to consumers through the reduction of the value-added tax (VAT) on foodstuffs. The government's tax hikes are criticized as unanalyzed and chaotic measures that have harmed consumers. Measures that improve consumer purchasing power are preferred.
2 Speeches Analyzed
Social Issues
The primary social issue is the availability and price of food, which is linked to consumer welfare and the government's responsibility to the people. Emphasis is placed on the human and essential nature of this topic, as well as the expectations of the public.
2 Speeches Analyzed
Legislative Focus
The legislative focus is on the rapid passing of the draft law to lower VAT. The speaker, acting as a proponent, demands that the Riigikogu immediately take the popular initiative into proceedings and formalize it as a bill. The dragging out of the debate is being criticized.
2 Speeches Analyzed