Session Profile: Anastassia Kovalenko-Kõlvart

The main points focus on opposition oversight and criticism of the state’s functioning: strong criticism has been leveled against economic policy, including the adoption of the car tax and the sugar tax, and the necessity of adhering to the Constitution and European Union law is stressed. Transparency in the state budget and the targeted use of public funds are also emphasized, often shifting toward direct criticism of the government. Optimistic forecasts for economic development are tempered, and the priority is strengthening checks and accountability, as well as holding ministers responsible (e.g., through motions of no confidence). The overall tone is policy- and value-based, rather than merely personal at the personnel level, and the stance is strongly oppositional.

Strong theoretical and procedural expertise: referring to specific topics such as the national pet register and microchipping, the lack of an impact assessment for the motor vehicle tax, and questions regarding the compatibility of European Union law with the constitution. Numerical defense strategies are presented (e.g., 21.9% interest rates, risks related to state compensation for damages) alongside clear examples of budget transparency and the linking of amendments. References are made to legislative processes (e.g., the involvement of administrative courts, advance voting reforms) and analytical arguments concerning impact and legal legitimacy.

The tone is formal and question-driven, often employing respectful courtesies (Thank you!), but the substance is critical and boldly proactive in making proposals. It utilizes fact-based argumentation, examples, and specific questions to guide discussions and present demands for answers and changes. In some instances, sharp criticism is included, coupled with personal observations or accusations (e.g., when addressing the actions of ministers or the coalition).

Repeated interpellations and the submission of questions to the Riigikogu Board and ministers; participation in major sessions and on pressing topics (such as the car tax, sugar tax, budget transparency, anti-corruption, and similar matters); the main activities for 2024–2025 include interpellations, evaluation of draft legislation, scrutiny of the Board's decisions, and proposals for cooperation and conferences.

A deepened opposition stance: critical of the government's economic policy and legislation; attempts at autonomy that conflict with EU and constitutional law, and the demand for effective oversight of local government expenditures. Direct motions of no confidence against ministers and emphasized links to corruption cases (e.g., Bolt) demonstrate a strong and active confrontation.

Emphasis is often placed on cooperation and inclusion with the coalition, including the desire to organize joint sessions with the Legal Oversight and Constitutional Committees; there is a readiness to find compromises, but at the same time, the necessity of considering the opposition's viewpoints and legal limits is stressed. They speak of the wish to incorporate proposals from various opposition factions and, where necessary, facilitate cross-committee discussions.

The focus is on issues at both the national and local levels: the City of Tallinn and the funding of local municipalities, as well as the impact on rural areas (e.g., the effect of taxes aimed at lower-income residents). Specific regional observations cover Tallinn (city budget and co-financing), but the discussion also addresses rural regions and the targeted use of state money.

A critical stance on economic and tax policy: the opposition to the car tax and the sugar tax, an opposition rooted in the interplay between budgetary costs and EU legislation; the demand for budget transparency, separate accounting for expenditures, and mandatory impact assessments. Recommendations concerning support for the economic plan are currently being disregarded, with emphasis instead placed on providing specific support measures (such as school lunches and school sports), all while ensuring meticulous expenditure management and transparent business relations.

Social priorities encompass children's health and support for school sports, addressing the specific needs of people with disabilities, and protecting children and families. The platform takes a strong stance on taxes that disproportionately affect the most vulnerable groups (those living in rural areas and low-income families). Furthermore, emphasis is placed on animal welfare (including a pet register) and the need to ensure better management of animal shelters and urban areas.

The main legislative priorities include the car tax bill and the systemic risks associated with it (including conflict with European Union law and constitutional violation), amendments to administrative procedures, changes to the Security Activities Act, and legislative proposals concerning budget transparency and the separate accounting of public expenditures. Also crucial are the adequacy of the activities of the special anti-corruption committee and the protection of the instruments of parliamentary democracy; opinions and interpellations are submitted regarding these topics.