Session Profile: Eerik-Niiles Kross
Fifteenth Riigikogu, third session, plenary sitting.
2024-06-03
Political Position
The political position is strongly value-based, focusing on the non-recognition of the results of the Russian elections and the legitimacy of V. Putin. Support is given to the draft resolution of the Riigikogu, which establishes a legal basis for the government’s future conduct, comparing it to the de jure non-recognition during the Soviet occupation. This position is aimed at creating a fundamental basis for Estonia’s legal and practical approach toward the Putin regime.
1 Speeches Analyzed
Topic Expertise
The speaker demonstrates comprehensive knowledge of the legislative process (including deadlines and committee decisions) and international law. Particular emphasis is placed on the resolutions of the Venice Commission and the Parliamentary Assembly of the Council of Europe (2519 and 2540), utilizing specific legal terminology such as "legitimate," "de jure," and "de facto." The expertise further encompasses an analysis of the amendments to the Russian constitution, which ultimately rendered the elections illegal.
1 Speeches Analyzed
Rhetorical Style
The rhetorical style is formal, analytical, and informative, focusing on clarifying the draft's procedure and its legal substance. Logical argumentation is utilized, highlighting international precedents and resolutions to substantiate the uniqueness and necessity of Estonia's position. The tone is serious and businesslike, avoiding emotional appeals.
1 Speeches Analyzed
Activity Patterns
The course of action is related to the management of a specific draft bill within the Foreign Affairs Committee, providing an overview of the protraction of the proceedings and the procedural steps taken from March until June. The speaker’s role, as the committee’s representative, is to explain the substance of the draft bill and the progress of the proceedings to the plenary session.
1 Speeches Analyzed
Opposition Stance
There is no direct confrontation or criticism aimed at political opponents, but the speaker is actively addressing questions concerning the role of e-elections and the practical impact of the decision. He refutes simplified comparisons between Estonian and Russian elections, emphasizing the violation of the constitution in Russia's case.
1 Speeches Analyzed
Collaboration Style
The style of cooperation within the commission is consensus-based, since the commission's representative was appointed by consensus. Emphasis is placed on international cooperation, highlighting the successful persuasive work of the Estonian government and diplomats among European colleagues to ensure they do not participate in Putin's inauguration.
1 Speeches Analyzed
Regional Focus
The focus is clearly international, concentrating on Russia’s political legitimacy and the elections held in the occupied territories of Ukraine. Estonia’s position is viewed within the context of the international stance adopted by the Council of Europe, the European Parliament, and the Venice Commission.
1 Speeches Analyzed
Economic Views
Insufficient data
1 Speeches Analyzed
Social Issues
Insufficient data.
1 Speeches Analyzed
Legislative Focus
The legislative focus is on a draft resolution of the Riigikogu, initiated by the Isamaa parliamentary group and deliberated by the Foreign Affairs Committee. The objective is not to deem the results of the Russian elections legitimate, thereby creating an obligation for the government to define the practical meaning of the non-recognition policy.
1 Speeches Analyzed