Agenda Profile: Eerik-Niiles Kross
First Reading of the Draft Resolution of the Riigikogu (395 OE) "Making a Proposal to the Government of the Republic not to Recognize the Results of the Presidential Elections of the Russian Federation"
2024-06-03
Fifteenth Riigikogu, third session, plenary sitting.
Political Position
The political focus is heavily centered on the non-recognition of the results of the Russian Federation's presidential elections, grounded in a legal and value-based framework. It is stressed that the elections are illegitimate due to violations of the Russian constitution, specifically those that allowed Putin to run indefinitely. The stance is resolute, calling on the government to elaborate and implement a de jure non-recognition policy.
1 Speeches Analyzed
Topic Expertise
The speaker demonstrates profound expertise in the field of international law and parliamentary procedure, citing the assessments of the Venice Commission and the resolutions of the Parliamentary Assembly of the Council of Europe (PACE). Technical terms such as "normative-technical amendments" are employed, and a distinction is drawn between de jure and de facto recognition, drawing parallels from Estonian history.
1 Speeches Analyzed
Rhetorical Style
The rhetorical style is formal, analytical, and explanatory, centering on the presentation of procedural details and legal arguments. A logical appeal is employed, drawing upon international documents and historical parallels (specifically, the Soviet occupation in Estonia) to substantiate the policy of non-recognition. The tone remains measured and goal-oriented, even when addressing questions raised by the audience.
1 Speeches Analyzed
Activity Patterns
The speaker's mode of operation involves active participation in the legislative process, providing an overview of the bill's history, committee sessions, and subsequent steps. Several dates and events spanning March to June are mentioned, demonstrating continuous work by the lead committee to advance the draft legislation.
1 Speeches Analyzed
Opposition Stance
Direct criticism is not leveled against the counterpart, but objections (e.g., regarding e-elections) are addressed and refuted, citing the conclusions of the Venice Commission. Furthermore, regretful reference is made to the European countries that participated in Putin’s inauguration despite the persuasive efforts of Estonian diplomats, indicating dissatisfaction with the passivity of those nations.
1 Speeches Analyzed
Collaboration Style
The style of cooperation is consensus-based, noting that the commission's representative was appointed by consensus, and emphasizing successful international cooperation in persuading European colleagues to boycott Putin's inauguration. Reference is also made to the involvement of the Legal and Analysis Department of the Riigikogu Chancellery in the proceedings.
1 Speeches Analyzed
Regional Focus
The focus is clearly international, centering on the issue of Russia's political legitimacy, the elections held in the occupied territories of Ukraine, and the positions of European institutions (PACE, Venice Commission). Estonia's role is highlighted as the first country to adopt such an official stance.
1 Speeches Analyzed
Economic Views
Not enough data
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Social Issues
Not enough data
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Legislative Focus
The legislative focus is on adopting Riigikogu draft decision 395 OE, the purpose of which is to refuse to recognize the results of the presidential elections of the Russian Federation as legitimate. The speaker is a strong supporter and the procedural representative for the draft, stressing the need to establish a foundation for the government to flesh out the substance of the non-recognition policy.
1 Speeches Analyzed