Agenda Profile: Anastassia Kovalenko-Kõlvart
Continuation of the first reading of the Bill on the Tax on Sweetened Beverages (418 SE)
2024-05-02
15th Riigikogu, 3rd session, plenary session
Political Position
The stance is critical yet moderate regarding the government's tax policy. It emphasizes that new taxes (including the sugar tax, car tax, VAT, income tax, and excises) must be carefully weighed during an economic crisis, and it does not support rushing their implementation. It argues that measures introduced during an economic boom will not function identically during a recession and could penalize entrepreneurs and citizens. Furthermore, it highlights the necessity of a comprehensive and coordinated financing model and stresses adherence to European Union law and state aid requirements.
3 Speeches Analyzed
Topic Expertise
Demonstrates theoretical and regulatory competence regarding taxation and EU law matters; mentions the state aid opinion and the role of the European Commission, and refers to the 2017 opinion as previous foundational material; uses specific terminology such as state aid, conflict with European Union law, and Commission opinion.
3 Speeches Analyzed
Rhetorical Style
Being both critical and broad in scope, the approach utilizes enumerative argument points (e.g., “all the taxes… cannot list them all”) and direct questions aimed at the management board. It combines facts, examples, and rhetorical questions to emphasize the impact and the necessity of transparency. The chosen style is predominantly policy-driven and thoughtfully critical.
3 Speeches Analyzed
Activity Patterns
Two speeches were presented simultaneously on May 2, 2024, referencing parliamentary debates (the Special Committee on the State Budget) and the consideration of cooperation possibilities, in conjunction with interaction with the European Commission. The precise recurrence or frequency cannot be reliably determined.
3 Speeches Analyzed
Opposition Stance
The main thrust of the opposition is directed at the government’s tax plan, specifically focusing on tax increases that could lead to bankruptcy or hinder the economy, and questioning their compliance with EU law. The rapid and inconsistent implementation of these taxes is heavily criticized. The opposition is demanding the opportunity for an exhaustive review of EU requirements and, if necessary, the withdrawal of the draft legislation.
3 Speeches Analyzed
Collaboration Style
There is insufficient data regarding the style of domestic cooperation; while questions and demands are directed toward foreign partners (EC), no direct or specified cooperation with colleagues or within the coalition has come to light.
3 Speeches Analyzed
Regional Focus
At the regional level, specific regions or local entities are not singled out; the focus is primarily on the national level and the EU context.
3 Speeches Analyzed
Economic Views
Stance: Economic stability and the protection of entrepreneurs are a priority; critical of the current taxes, which could burden businesses during a period of low economic growth; emphasizes that the cumulative effect of taxes is negative, and expenditures must be considered against the backdrop of an economic downturn. Expresses a desire to limit or repeal new taxes and to assess the compliance of state aid.
3 Speeches Analyzed
Social Issues
The text focuses less on specific social policies like abortion or LGBT rights. The issue of healthcare funding is mentioned as a broader problem area, but a clear position on social issues is lacking. The future trajectory of healthcare funding is highlighted as a critical issue requiring resolution.
3 Speeches Analyzed
Legislative Focus
The primary focus is on two draft bills (the proposed sugar tax law and the car tax bill) and their compliance with EU law; demanding the immediate withdrawal or comprehensive review of these drafts, and requesting the opinion or advice of the European Commission regarding state aid matters. The necessity of checking for conflicts with European Union law and consulting the EC for confirmation is stressed.
3 Speeches Analyzed