Session Profile: Anastassia Kovalenko-Kõlvart
15th Riigikogu, 3rd sitting, plenary session
2024-01-24
Political Position
Criticism of the accelerated legislative process and the highlighting of the importance of constitutionality and impact analysis. The representative is value-based and central to the defense of the rule of law, emphasizing the need for thorough debate, an inclusive process, and clear justifications. He/She stresses that urgency must not be used as a justification for violating standard legislative practices, and calls upon the ministry and the Riigikogu to act responsibly.
3 Speeches Analyzed
Topic Expertise
Demonstrates a robust understanding of legislative policy, specifically emphasizing the importance of the intent to draft, impact assessment, and constitutional review. It references expert opinions (Carri Ginter, Allar Jõks) and thoroughly discusses both civil rights and European Union legislation. It underscores that lawmaking must be inclusive, transparent, and guarantee a greater degree of equal rights.
3 Speeches Analyzed
Rhetorical Style
A concrete, analytical, and slightly controversial tone; it uses questions and provocative examples to highlight flawed processes. The text employs both an emotional and a fact-based approach, often referencing experts and historical examples (Lennart Meri). It fosters debate and serves as an effective tool for public policy discussion.
3 Speeches Analyzed
Activity Patterns
The speech was delivered on January 24, 2024, during the Riigikogu plenary session. The presentation is lengthy, structured as a review and critique, and references previous discussions held in the Legal Affairs Committee, as well as expert opinions. There is a consistent emphasis on adhering to and improving legislative drafting practices. Earlier recommendations are referenced, and political events are kept in mind as illustrative examples.
3 Speeches Analyzed
Opposition Stance
A strong opposition position regarding rushed legislation; the core of the criticism centers on procedural and legal propriety (specifically, the absence of a drafting intent and impact analysis, and the disregard for constitutional compliance checks). [The opposition] criticizes the interpretations offered by the coalition and its leaders, demanding stricter oversight and transparency in the legislative process. A dominant stance—growing resistance to the fast-track procedure.
3 Speeches Analyzed
Collaboration Style
An approach oriented towards inclusion and transparency; it emphasizes the involvement of citizens and experts, and requires that draft legislation only be approved after the preparation of the intent to draft and an impact assessment. It supports cooperation between ministries and the Riigikogu (Parliament) through stricter oversight and discussions. It demands that stronger procedures and analyses be established to ensure mutual consideration.
3 Speeches Analyzed
Regional Focus
State and general national interest; there is no significant regional focus or mention of specific areas. The text focuses on public law customs and the national legal system.
3 Speeches Analyzed
Economic Views
Specific economic policy proposals are absent; criticism has been raised regarding the significant impact of accelerated tax bills and amendments. It emphasizes the necessity of conducting impact assessments and substantive preliminary discussions before implementing the state budget and tax commitments. It does not represent a concrete economic policy program, but it is critical of the legitimacy of economic decisions made in haste.
3 Speeches Analyzed
Social Issues
It emphasizes the protection of fundamental rights and constitutionality, and the need to keep the increasing potential risks to citizens' rights under control. In the context of the marriage equality debate, it mentions that social issues must not be resolved hastily, and that any action taken must consider constitutional and human rights aspects. The overall stance leans toward strengthening the emphasis on the protection of rights and democratic debate.
3 Speeches Analyzed
Legislative Focus
The main objective is to improve the quality of legislation: this involves the mandatory preparation of a legislative intent (or concept note), the requirement for an impact assessment, and the carrying out of a constitutional compliance review prior to final approval. If these preconditions are not met, the adoption of the draft bill by the government or the Riigikogu (Parliament) will not be supported. Furthermore, emphasis is placed on the need to avoid the use of confusing omnibus bills and to ensure that every law has a long-term positive effect.
3 Speeches Analyzed