Session Profile: Anastassia Kovalenko-Kõlvart

15th Riigikogu, 5th sitting, press briefing

2025-03-26

Political Position
The first address is oppositional and critical of tax policy: it is stressed that the EU directive could introduce a tax, and questions are raised as to why the coalition previously supported it. An explanation is demanded, along with the option to postpone or repeal the measure. The second address is fundamentally opposed to the car tax: emphasis is placed on protecting individuals with special needs and large families, as well as on the lack of constitutionality; it calls for the car tax to be repealed. Overall, the expressed positions reflect an oppositional stance; the transparency of tax policy and the consideration of social impacts are the main themes.

2 Speeches Analyzed
Topic Expertise
The speakers reference European Union taxation directives (including the vote on 25.04.2023) and the substance of the coalition agreement, demonstrating specialized knowledge of tax policy. The second speech focuses on constitutionality, the opinions issued by the Chancellors of Justice, and administrative court proceedings related to the car tax; legal terminology and procedure are employed. Consequently, expertise in tax policy, legal matters, and parliamentary procedures is apparent.

2 Speeches Analyzed
Rhetorical Style
The first speech is interrogative and accusatory, addressed to the Prime Minister, and employs a deeply critical tone. The second speech is emotionally revealing and ethically focused, emphasizing the welfare and rights of the people, yet it remains fact-based and legally substantiated. The overall style is strongly contentious and argumentative, combining facts with moral considerations.

2 Speeches Analyzed
Activity Patterns
The addresses took place during the information hour on the same day (2025-03-26) and were directed at the Prime Minister. The first address referenced earlier documents and votes (25.04.2023), while the second address detailed specific matters, such as the judicial and administrative processes concerning the car tax, and discussions regarding proposed amendments. This demonstrates regular parliamentary oversight, focused attention on legislative matters, and continuous political monitoring.

2 Speeches Analyzed
Opposition Stance
Both speeches represent strong opposition: the first speech featured criticism of tax policy and the EU directive, along with a demand for clarification and possible postponement; the second speech focused on opposing the car tax, emphasizing legal issues and the protection of vulnerable groups. The intensity is high, the criticism is concentrated, and while seeking compromise is primarily viewed as necessary, broad cooperation with the coalition is not described.

2 Speeches Analyzed
Collaboration Style
Although the texts reference the coalition agreement and prior approval, the tone is critical, and future cooperation will become crucial for engaging stakeholders and reviewing the changes. The first speech emphasizes honest discussion and accountability, while the second highlights the necessity of considering the interests of people with disabilities and families with children. Attention is also drawn to the fact that the proposed amendments did not reach the main chamber for a vote. It appears there is potential for collaboration, but a complaining and controlling pattern is also being presented.

2 Speeches Analyzed
Regional Focus
Not enough data

2 Speeches Analyzed
Economic Views
Economically, emphasis has been placed on the detrimental nature of the tax policy and its impact on families and the overall cost of living. The first speech highlighted concerns regarding grocery prices and tax increases, demanding clarification and potential postponement. The second speech centered its criticism on the car tax, specifically addressing the burden placed on people with special needs and large families, and is tied to ongoing discussions about scrapping the proposed tax schemes. The overall objective is to limit taxation and protect vulnerable groups.

2 Speeches Analyzed
Social Issues
The speeches emphasize social consequences: the well-being of families, the cost of the consumer basket, and the tax burden. Regarding the car tax, emphasis is placed on the inequality created for disabled people, large families, and the poor, along with the necessity of maintaining or establishing exceptions so that daily life arrangements do not deteriorate. Moral and rights-based considerations are central to the discussion, demonstrating a strong focus on social responsibility.

2 Speeches Analyzed
Legislative Focus
The legislator's priorities center on ensuring transparency in the implementation of European Union directives, addressing potential tax-related amendments, and managing the car tax procedure. The discussion covers the process, including the review of proposed amendments and proceedings in administrative courts. Furthermore, reference is made to the stances taken by the President and the Chancellor of Justice, which bear influence on the potential for repealing or modifying legislation. Both addresses underscore the necessity of scrutinizing and, where required, repealing controversial tax laws, alongside monitoring parliamentary transparency.

2 Speeches Analyzed