Agenda Profile: Eerik-Niiles Kross
First reading of the draft statement of the Riigikogu "On the Return to Ukraine of Children Deported by Russia" (375 AE)
2024-02-20
15th Riigikogu, 3rd session, plenary session
Political Position
The political position centers on strong opposition to Russia’s actions in Ukraine, highlighting the forced deportation of children as a crime of genocide and a violation of international law. This stance is value-driven and legal in nature, emphasizing the primacy of human rights and international conventions (specifically the Genocide Convention and the Fourth Geneva Convention). The speaker draws on historical parallels (the March Deportations) to underscore the emotional and political weight of the issue.
3 Speeches Analyzed
Topic Expertise
The speaker demonstrates profound knowledge of international law and humanitarian law, precisely citing articles from the Convention on the Prevention and Punishment of the Crime of Genocide, the Fourth Geneva Convention, and the Convention on the Rights of the Child. Detailed statistical data is used regarding the number of deported children, as well as Russia's re-education camps and filtration system. The expertise is focused on the legal and historical documentation of these violations.
3 Speeches Analyzed
Rhetorical Style
The rhetorical style is formal and deliberate, yet its content is emotionally heavy and urgent, designed to create discomfort among listeners and raise awareness of the gravity of the situation. To achieve maximum impact, the speaker relies on facts and international law, connecting these points with historical quotes (Himmler) and Estonia’s experience with deportations. The style remains balanced, beginning with factual evidence but concluding with a personal and emotional recollection (Ants Laaneots).
3 Speeches Analyzed
Activity Patterns
No data available
3 Speeches Analyzed
Opposition Stance
The main opponent is the Russian Federation, which is being criticized extremely harshly for systematic war crimes, genocide, and the daily violation of international law. The criticism is directed at Russia's state policy, officials (Putin, Lvova-Belova), and their goal of replacing the identity of Ukrainian children with love for Russia. The opposition is intense and uncompromising, based on legal and moral condemnation.
3 Speeches Analyzed
Collaboration Style
The speaker addresses colleagues politely ("Dear colleagues!") and refers to a respected shared colleague (Ants Laaneots), which suggests collegial interaction within the Riigikogu. No direct data has been presented regarding cross-party cooperation or willingness to compromise concerning this specific resolution.
3 Speeches Analyzed
Regional Focus
The focus is clearly international, centering on the conflict between Ukraine and Russia and violations of international law. A strong historical and national parallel is also drawn with the Estonian March Deportations to bring the topic closer to the domestic audience.
3 Speeches Analyzed
Economic Views
No data available
3 Speeches Analyzed
Social Issues
Among the social issues, the protection of children's rights is emphasized, particularly in relation to forced relocation, identity alteration, and education aimed at fostering respect for their own culture. The matter is addressed in the context of genocide and crimes against humanity, highlighting the separation of children from their parents and their use for propaganda purposes.
3 Speeches Analyzed
Legislative Focus
The legislative focus is on supporting the Riigikogu's draft statement (375 AE), which addresses the return of children deported by Russia back to Ukraine. The speaker's role is that of a proponent, providing the draft with a strong foundation in international law and historical context to emphasize its urgency and necessity.
3 Speeches Analyzed