Session Profile: Eerik-Niiles Kross
15th Riigikogu, 3rd session, plenary session
2024-02-20
Political Position
The political focus is on the condemnation of the Russian Federation’s war crimes and acts of genocide (specifically, the deportation and re-education of children). This stance is strongly value-based, emphasizing violations of international law (the Genocide Convention and the Geneva Conventions). The speaker strongly supports the protection of the identity and rights of Ukrainian children and draws parallels with the March Deportation carried out by the Soviet Union. The political attitude is strongly antagonistic toward Russian occupation practices.
3 Speeches Analyzed
Topic Expertise
The speaker demonstrates profound knowledge of international law, precisely citing Article 2 of the Convention on the Prevention and Punishment of the Crime of Genocide, Articles 50 and 29 of the Fourth Geneva Convention, and the Convention on the Rights of the Child. A fact-based approach is employed, highlighting documented data concerning the forced relocation of children, filtration camps, and the number of deportees in Ukraine. The expertise also encompasses linking historical events (the March Deportation) and Nazism (Himmler's quote) to contemporary legal violations.
3 Speeches Analyzed
Rhetorical Style
The rhetorical style is formal and measured, balancing the emotionally difficult subject matter with legal facts and citations to be "most impactful." The speaker uses historical references (Himmler, the March Deportation, Ants Laaneots) and documented cases (the Amnesty International report) to emphasize the gravity of the topic and establish a personal connection. The tone is serious and urgent, acknowledging that delivering the speech will dampen the audience's spirits, but asserting that this serves a necessary objective.
3 Speeches Analyzed
Activity Patterns
The speech was delivered during a plenary session, likely in support of the statement. The speaker timed their message one month before the 75th anniversary of the March Deportations. Data is missing regarding other activity patterns, such as regular appearances or travel.
3 Speeches Analyzed
Opposition Stance
The main adversary is the Russian Federation and the historical Soviet Union, who are directly accused of genocide crimes, the daily violation of international law, and the use of children for propaganda purposes. The criticism is extremely intense and focuses on political and legal-ethical violations, naming Russian officials (Lvova-Belova) as suspects in war crimes.
3 Speeches Analyzed
Collaboration Style
The speaker addresses the audience as "Dear colleagues!" and refers to "our good colleague Ants Laaneots," which indicates cooperation within the parliament when shaping a unified stance. The cooperative style is supportive and emphasizes a shared memory, aiming to strengthen the parliament's unity in condemning the issue at hand.
3 Speeches Analyzed
Regional Focus
The focus is heavily international, concentrating on Russia’s aggression in Ukraine and its consequences. Specific Ukrainian regions are mentioned (Mariupol, Donetsk, Lugansk), alongside a historical connection to Estonia (the March Deportation). The regional focus is directed toward the occupied territories and the suffering of their inhabitants.
3 Speeches Analyzed
Economic Views
Not enough data
3 Speeches Analyzed
Social Issues
The primary social theme is the protection of children's rights during wartime, emphasizing the necessity of preserving children's cultural identity, language, and values, in accordance with the Convention on the Rights of the Child. The speaker strongly opposes the forced re-education and identity alteration of children, actions which are linked to genocide and crimes against humanity.
3 Speeches Analyzed
Legislative Focus
The address is related to an ongoing resolution aimed at condemning Russia’s actions regarding the violation of international law and the deportation of children. The speaker’s role is to provide this initiative with a strong legal and factual basis, drawing upon international conventions.
3 Speeches Analyzed