Agenda Profile: Anastassia Kovalenko-Kõlvart

The population crisis and declining birth rates are the main issues; the position is strongly pro-natalist and advocates for state intervention. He/She emphasizes that free kindergartens should be accessible throughout all of Estonia, not just in Tallinn, and that state aid to local governments is necessary. He/She also stresses cooperation and a consensus-based approach at both the national and local government levels.

The speaker demonstrates a body of knowledge derived from the connections between demographics and economic impacts: they utilize SEB Bank survey data (9,646 births; average home loan borrower age 36; proportion of 25-year-olds 2.5%) and link housing prices and the coping mechanisms of young families with mental health. The speaker indirectly presents the topics of single parents and poverty risks, emphasizing the effect of economic risks on the birth rate. It is characteristic of the speaker to rely on facts and research in addition to incorporating emotional elements.

The speech interweaves emotional and data-driven arguments, aiming to bridge the gap between youth concerns and macro-statistics. While critical comments were employed (e.g., calling things 'hypocritical'), the core focus remains on offering solutions and requesting collaboration. The delivery is clear, exploratory, and somewhat demonstratively oriented toward emotional appeal.

The speaker's address was delivered at the session held on June 9, 2025, where the discussion centered on the demographic crisis and free kindergartens. Reference is made to previous agenda items and budgetary stances, demonstrating the prevailing mindset and readiness for further steps. The text showcases a day-by-day, inter-sessional debate and proposals concerning supplementary budgets.

The conflict primarily centers on the policy of the Social Democrats (Sotsid); they are accused of inconsistency and showing opposition regarding the expansion of free kindergartens, while other factions praise tree planting and similar initiatives. It is alleged that the Sotsid are willing to fund certain expenses (e.g., tree planting) but fail to support real measures aimed at helping families cope financially. The criticism is highly intense, and arguments are being put forward advocating for a consensus solution that transcends party lines.

Focuses on consensus-based, whole-of-government solutions; emphasizes the need for cooperation between the state and local governments, as well as the implementation of measures with expanded state support. It seeks broad cross-sectional cooperation and is ready for compromises, but simultaneously notes opposition in other parties. It seeks to avoid making concessions and emphasizes the use of shared resources in population policy.

Tallinn serves as an example (a free kindergarten spot in the context of Tallinn), but the goal is a comprehensive nationwide state solution for all of Estonia. It is emphasized that Estonia is not just Tallinn; attention is drawn to the readiness of local governments and the need for state aid across the entire country. Regional attention has primarily been used as a demonstration, but the focus remains on population policy at the national level.

Economic and housing issues remain central: the price level of real estate, the lack of self-financing (down payments), and uncertain economic risks affect young families; there is a desire for the real estate market to become cheaper and for state intervention in the housing market. At the same time, there is also a desire to consider reducing taxes and abolishing the car tax, and support state funding for free kindergartens. A balanced approach is needed – promoting social support while simultaneously maintaining focus on economic sustainability.

Social issues encompass the demographic crisis, low birth rates, youth mental health, the high risk faced by single parents, and children's well-being. It is emphasized that support for families, including benefits related to the first and second child, has historically been residual or inadequate, and that abolishing the car tax and providing free kindergartens are central measures. It is noted that single parents, predominantly women (90%), require greater support; discussions revolve around eliminating kindergarten fees and improving the financial resilience of families.

The legislative priority is the implementation of free kindergartens at the national level and the expansion of these measures across all local municipalities. Reference is made to proposals put forward via the supplementary budget and initial steps that could fully eliminate kindergarten fees. The speaker emphasizes the state's involvement in funding and the support of local governments, and anticipates the need to process legislative amendments that will enable this financing and ensure broader accessibility. It is also noted that a consensus policy regarding rhetoric is required, as well as achieving progress through the measures cited in the text.