By Agendas: Urmas Kruuse

Total Agendas: 60

Fully Profiled: 60

2025-10-15
Discussion of the state issue of significant national importance initiated by the Committee on European Union Affairs: "Estonia's Choices and Opportunities in the European Union's 2028–2034 Long-Term Budget"

The 15th Riigikogu, VI Session, Plenary Sitting

The political position is heavily focused on significantly increasing the proportion of direct payments for Estonian agriculture within the European Union's long-term budget. This stance is results-driven, stressing the necessity of raising Estonia's share above the current 83–84% level, even if the total amount of subsidies does not increase. The objective is to guarantee greater financial parity for Estonian farmers.
2025-10-09
Discussion of the Crucial National Issue 'The Future of the Estonian Economy'

15th Riigikogu, 6th Session, Plenary Sitting

The political focus is directed toward the future of the Estonian economy, emphasizing the uniqueness of the e-state as a foundation for innovation and a potential engine for development. The speaker offers moderate support for state development activities, particularly highlighting the defense industry's potential for generating added value. A concern is raised regarding the limited appetite for risk among new generations, which is framed as an economic risk. The political approach is primarily results- and value-based, centered on innovation.
2025-10-07
First Reading of the 2026 State Budget Bill (737 SE)

The 15th Riigikogu, 6th Session, Plenary Sitting

The political focus is on the state budget and the dynamics of the tax burden. The speaker is attempting to correct public understanding, stressing that the overall tax burden is actually decreasing, despite significant defense spending (over 5% of GDP). This stance is strongly evidence-based, focusing on facts to refute opposing narratives.
2025-09-24
The Regional Affairs and Agricultural Minister's 2025 presentation on the implementation of the state's long-term development strategy "Estonia 2035"

Fifteenth Riigikogu, sixth sitting, plenary sitting.

The speaker prioritizes agricultural policy, food security, and regional development, stressing the need for quick strategic decisions regarding the upcoming EU budget period (28+). The political approach is policy- and results-driven, focusing on improving competitiveness, reducing bureaucracy, and correcting regional disparities. He emphasizes that we cannot wait until 2035 for strategic decisions; they must be made within the next two years.
2025-09-18
Bank of Estonia 2024 Report

15th Estonian Parliament, 6th sitting, plenary session.

The political position centers on assessing the impact of economic cyclicality and previous decisions (especially debt burden and wage growth). The policymaker seeks clarification on whether the current economic deceleration represents a correction following earlier overheating. The framework is strongly results-oriented, focusing on the analysis of economic indicators and their historical context.
2025-09-16
The Chancellor of Justice's report on the conformity of legislative acts with the Constitution and the performance of other duties assigned to the Chancellor by law.

Fifteenth Riigikogu, sixth sitting, plenary sitting.

The political platform centers on two fundamental areas: education reform and the protection of civil liberties. The speaker is concerned about outdated educational practices (such as school entrance exams) and, particularly, criminal cases initiated by political opponents, which suggest excessive surveillance. This is a value-based position, emphasizing freedom and the defense of the rule of law against political abuse.
2025-09-11
The Financial Supervision Authority's 2024 Report

15th Riigikogu, 6th plenary sitting

The political position focuses on strengthening the protection of depositors' money within the savings and loan association sector, citing concerns and "instability" that have arisen in society. This stance is clearly regulation-based, emphasizing the need to ensure clearer and better protection for depositors' funds. The speaker asks whether certain models have become obsolete for objective reasons.
2025-09-09
The Minister of Defence's 2025 presentation on the implementation of the state's long-term development strategy "Estonia 2035"

15th Riigikogu, 6th sitting, plenary session.

The political platform focuses on the effectiveness of national defense and internal security procedures, particularly addressing gaps in crisis communication (referencing the Elva drone incident). Another key position is strategic support for the Estonian food industry, linking the use of local raw materials by the Defense Forces as an integral part of national defense. These stances are primarily results-oriented, focusing on improving existing procedures and supplementing current policy.
2025-09-04
Chair implementation

15th Riigikogu, extraordinary session of the Riigikogu

The speaker places strong emphasis on ensuring the efficiency of parliamentary procedures and sessions. He defends the holding of the Rural Affairs Committee meeting and stresses the need for clear definitions when initiating legislation, opposing vague proposals. He objects to wasting time on the floor, preferring productive and procedurally sound work.
2025-06-10
Draft law amending the Basic Education Act, the Education Act of the Republic of Estonia, and amending other acts related thereto (establishing compulsory education), second reading (644 SE)

15th Riigikogu, 5th session, plenary sitting.

The political stance supports the legislative process for the amendment to the Education Act (644 SE), with a focus on ensuring the smooth enactment of the draft bill. This position is policy- and procedure-focused, stressing the necessity of extending the deadline for local municipalities to implement regulations arising from the amendments to the Pre-Primary Education Act. This approach is a direct result of appeals received from local governments and is designed to eliminate administrative hurdles.
2025-06-10
The Chairman of the Supreme Court’s overview of court orders, the administration of justice, and the uniform application of laws.

15th Riigikogu, 5th session, plenary sitting.

The political stance centers on opposing overly strict residency register controls imposed by local authorities in the context of elections. The speaker strongly emphasizes the protection of individual privacy and the right to choose one's primary place of residence, deeming the current approach outdated. The position is fundamentally value-based, stressing the defense of civil rights against state surveillance.
2025-06-05
Discussion of the significant national issue initiated by the Economics Committee: "How to increase productivity in the Estonian economy?"

15th Riigikogu, 5th session, plenary session.

The political focus is aimed at boosting the nation's economic productivity and international competitiveness, specifically concentrating on the potential of service exports and improving the efficiency of traditional sectors. The viewpoints expressed are generally analytical and probing, seeking the underlying reasons for Estonia's superior success in service exports compared to its neighbors. Furthermore, there is an emphasis on the necessity of resolving infrastructure issues that are currently impeding economic growth.
2025-06-03
The Minister of Public Administration's 2025 presentation on the implementation of the state's long-term development strategy "Estonia 2035"

Fifteenth Riigikogu, fifth session, plenary session

The most important issue is the strong, value-based support for Rail Baltic, which is being treated as both a strategic necessity and a connectivity opportunity. The speaker also moderately supports keeping certain defense or infrastructure information confidential, arguing that the public does not need to know everything. The political framework is clearly directed toward ensuring long-term development and strategic affiliation.
2025-05-15
The Minister of Education and Research's 2025 presentation on the implementation of the state's long-term development strategy "Estonia 2035"

15th Riigikogu, 5th session, plenary session

The political focus is on modernizing education (early implementation of AI) and addressing social issues tied to national defense. He/She moderately supports the AI initiative, viewing it as a tool to help individuals make the right career choices. Criticism is aimed at the systemic failure to ensure the physical fitness of young people—an issue that has persisted for decades.
2025-05-13
Draft law amending the Basic Education Act, the Education Act of the Republic of Estonia, and other laws related thereto (establishing the obligation to attend school) – First Reading

15th Riigikogu, 5th sitting, plenary session

The political stance strongly supports reducing the administrative burden by abolishing the permit requirement for catering services in childcare facilities. Furthermore, the need to swiftly correct the legislative drafting errors that emerged during the process is emphasized, ensuring the law enters into force without provisions that impede service delivery. Concerning the funding of school meals, the position advocates for contributions from all three parties (the state, local governments, and parents) to guarantee quality, while simultaneously stressing the autonomy of local governments.
2025-05-08
Implementation of the Minister of Justice and Digital Transformation's 2025 submission "Fundamental Principles of Criminal Policy until 2030"

15th Riigikogu, 5th session, plenary sitting

The political emphasis is on the transparency of criminal proceedings and ensuring justice. The speaker criticizes the culture of public conviction ("erasing people") and demands a systemic analysis regarding long, unsuccessful investigations. The focus is aimed at improving the system's efficiency and accountability, making it rather results- and policy-based.
2025-05-06
The Minister of Finance's 2025 presentation on the implementation of the state's long-term strategy "Estonia 2035" (including an overview of the development directions of the public service in 2024)

15th Riigikogu, 5th session, plenary session

The political focus centers on long-term financial stability and savings opportunities, supporting the integration of financial literacy into school curricula. The speaker sharply criticizes the previous dissolution of the pension pillar, deeming its consequences negative. The current direction is policy-driven, concentrating on the impact of reforms and enhancing flexibility within the pension system.
2025-04-22
The Minister of Culture's 2025 presentation on the implementation of the state's long-term development strategy "Estonia 2035" (including the implementation of "The Fundamentals of Estonian Sports Policy until 2030")

15th Riigikogu, 5th session, plenary sitting

The speaker strongly advocates for boosting the financial security of Estonian authors by raising public lending rights fees and looks forward to further increases. As a second key issue, they raise concern over talented young athletes dropping out of the sports system after graduating from high school. The focus is on policy implementation and effectiveness (lending statistics) and finding systemic solutions.
2025-04-15
The Ministry of Justice and Digital Transformation's 2025 presentation on the implementation of the state's long-term development strategy "Estonia 2035."

Fifteenth Riigikogu, Fifth Session, Plenary Session.

The political stance is heavily focused on the security aspects within the justice system and on fiscal responsibility, demanding clarity regarding the cost of child support debt to the taxpayer. The speaker urgently stresses the necessity of preventing foreign prisoners from integrating into Estonian society, citing public fear.
2025-03-11
The Prime Minister's address for 2025 on the implementation of the long-term development strategy "Estonia 2035" (including an overview of the situation of research and development activities and the government's policy in this area).

15th Riigikogu, 5th session, plenary session

The political focus is on revitalizing the economy and returning to growth following the recession. The role of entrepreneurs in driving economic growth is considered paramount. When assessing the government's actions, the appointment of a Minister of Industry is highlighted as a crucial indicator of the economy's prioritization.
2025-02-26
Draft law amending the Hunting Act (567 SE) – First Reading

15th Riigikogu, 5th session, plenary session

The political position centers on the inefficiency of hunting regulation, particularly the consequences of court-ordered suspensions of hunting activities. The speaker suggests that failing to adhere to the standard procedural path has allowed the problem to spiral out of control, causing significant financial damage to businesses. This position is results-oriented, stressing the necessity of preventing administrative errors that undermine economic interests.
2025-02-26
Second reading of the draft law amending the Animal Husbandry Act (551 SE)

15th Riigikogu, 5th session, plenary session

The political stance is strongly focused on supporting the procedural advancement of the specific draft legislation (Bill 551 SE). This position is policy-driven, concentrating on finalizing the process of adopting the law, especially since no amendments were submitted. The primary subject is the supplementation of the Law on the Breeding of Farm Animals.
2025-02-20
Discussion of the nationally important issue "Plan for the Future of Sport: How to Bring Medals and Get Children Moving"

15th Riigikogu, 5th sitting, plenary session.

The political focus is currently on the future of sports, split between ensuring fairness in elite sports funding and promoting widespread physical activity. The speaker criticizes systemic failures, such as unfair funding requirements imposed by local municipalities and the underutilization of tax incentives, while simultaneously stressing the need for straightforward solutions and personal responsibility when developing exercise habits. These positions are predominantly policy- and value-driven, calling for structural changes.
2025-02-18
Draft resolution "Proposal to the Republic of Estonia's Government Regarding the Imposition of a Temporary Solidarity Tax on the Banking Sector" (535 OE) – First Reading

15th Riigikogu, 5th session, plenary sitting

The speaker strongly opposes the draft bill (535 OE) concerning the banking sector solidarity tax. He emphasizes that banks are "donors" to the economy, calling into question the opposing side's rhetoric and the seriousness of the draft legislation. His position is policy-based, focusing on the negative impact the bill would have on bank capitalization and the competitiveness of Estonian-owned banks.
2025-02-12
Draft law amending the Local Government Organisation Act (537 SE) – First Reading

15th Riigikogu, 5th session, plenary session

The political position is moderately skeptical toward Draft Law 537 SE, raising the question of whether the issue lies in the inadequacy of the law itself or the unwillingness of local governments (KOV) to implement existing sanctions. Emphasis is placed on the need to view the problem holistically, encompassing both incidents of attacks and overall animal welfare, instead of merely reacting to the consequences of attacks. The preferred approach is policy- and results-driven, aimed at identifying the true root cause of the issue.
2025-02-11
A debate on foreign policy initiated as a matter of significant national importance by the Foreign Affairs Committee.

15th Riigikogu, 5th session, plenary sitting

The political focus is heavily directed toward foreign policy and security, emphasizing the necessity of standing up to Russian aggression. The speaker advocates for the use of force (both military and economic) to cripple Russia's activities and criticizes the West's sluggishness in supporting Ukraine. The underlying framework is value-based, centered on protecting democracy and the rule of law in Europe. The stance strongly supports the rapid increase of defense spending and pushing back against aggression.
2025-01-29
Draft law amending the Animal Husbandry Act (551 SE) – first reading

15th Riigikogu, 5th session, plenary sitting

The political position is one of strong support for Bill 551 SE, which is viewed as a necessary corrective measure to reinstate European Union directives that were mistakenly invalidated. The focus is on the political framework, emphasizing legislative accuracy and a respectful approach toward businesses and animal welfare. This is primarily a policy- and procedure-focused approach.
2025-01-21
Draft law amending the Act on the Implementation of the Common Agricultural Policy of the European Union and the Feed Act (546 SE) – Second Reading

15th Riigikogu, 5th sitting, plenary session

The speaker strongly supports the draft legislation (546 SE) amending the Law on the Implementation of the European Union's Common Agricultural Policy and the Feed Law. This support is justified by the necessity of bringing the legislation into compliance with EU amendments, enhancing practical implementation experience, and establishing greater legal certainty. The political position is distinctly policy- and procedure-focused, highlighting the potential for reducing bureaucratic burden. The speaker dismisses claims regarding the demise of agriculture, stressing the sector's vitality and efficiency.
2024-12-17
Draft law amending the Act on the Implementation of the Common Agricultural Policy of the European Union and the Feed Act (546 SE) - First Reading

15th Riigikogu, 4th session, plenary session

Strongly supports the processing and completion of the first reading of the draft act (546 SE) concerning the implementation of the European Union’s Common Agricultural Policy. The political position is aimed at mitigating concerns, emphasizing that social conditionality does not constitute an additional burden for Estonian entrepreneurs, as the requirements are already in place. The position is primarily focused on policy and procedure.
2024-11-21
Discussion of the nationally significant issue initiated by the Environment Committee: "The Impact of Climate Change on Estonia's Legal Framework and Economy."

15th Estonian Parliament, 4th sitting, plenary session

The political position centers on the imperative necessity of addressing climate change, stressing that the cost of inaction has been politically and substantively underestimated. It advocates for striking a sensible balance between the speed and expense of adaptation, prioritizing proactive measures to preempt future costs that will be exponentially higher. This stance is heavily policy- and results-driven, focusing squarely on long-term risk management.
2024-11-19
Draft law amending the Plant Reproduction and Variety Protection Act and the Forest Act (473 SE) – second reading

15th Riigikogu, 4th sitting, plenary session.

The political position is strongly focused on the procedural advancement of Government Bill 473 (the draft Act amending the Plant Propagation and Variety Protection Act and the Forest Act). The support is procedural and centers on bringing the bill to a final vote, emphasizing consensual decisions. The framing is clearly policy-driven and focuses on the smooth implementation of the legislation.
2024-11-11
Draft law amending the Act on Termination of Pregnancy and Sterilisation (459 SE) - First Reading

15th Riigikogu, 4th session, plenary session

The political position strongly supports the continuation of funding for the national abortion service, emphasizing that this is necessary for achieving the long-term goal—the reduction in the number of abortions. The argumentation is policy- and statistics-driven, citing a clear decrease in the abortion rate. The speaker opposes a narrow approach to healthcare services.
2024-11-05
Overview of the Government of the Republic’s Activities in the Implementation of European Union Policy

Fifteenth Riigikogu, fourth session, plenary session

The most crucial issue is the level and criteria for distributing the European Union’s direct agricultural payments. The speaker strongly backs a support scheme geared towards competitiveness and views the risk of the scheme becoming more socially oriented as quite dangerous for Estonian farmers. This position is policy-focused, highlighting the necessity of securing a strong standing for Estonian producers in EU negotiations.
2024-10-22
Draft resolution "Proposal to the Republic of Estonia's Government regarding the introduction of a temporary solidarity tax on the banking sector" (487 OE) – first reading

15th Riigikogu, 4th session, plenary session

The political position is strongly and fundamentally opposed to the draft bill introducing a temporary solidarity tax on the banking sector, deeming it disproportionate and detrimental to the economy. This stance is clearly rooted in policy and values, emphasizing that banking serves a life-saving "donor" function in financing enterprise, and that the draft bill should be thrown into the "dustbin of history." It is stressed that banks already make significant contributions to society through advance income tax payments.
2024-10-14
Draft law amending the Plant Reproduction and Variety Protection Act and the Forest Act (473 SE) – First Reading

15th Estonian Parliament, 4th session, plenary sitting

The political position is strongly supportive of the bill's objectives, which include reducing bureaucracy and enabling the preservation of heritage varieties. The focus is on policy and regulatory amendments, while simultaneously ensuring compliance with phytosanitary requirements. The speaker emphasizes that the bill gives people the opportunity to grow whatever they wish in their own gardens.
2024-10-14
Draft law amending the Family Benefits Act and other laws (507 SE) – first reading

15th Estonian Parliament, 4th session, plenary sitting

The political position focuses on the fairness and stability of the family benefits system, highlighting the risk of discrimination against large families. The speaker indirectly criticizes political pressure aimed at increasing the birth rate, while uncertainty simultaneously grows in partnerships due to outstanding alimony debts. This position is primarily value-based and challenges the integrity of the system as a whole.
2024-09-25
The Regional Affairs and Agricultural Minister's 2024 presentation on the implementation of the state’s long-term development strategy "Estonia 2035"

15th Riigikogu, 4th sitting, plenary session

A strong focus is placed on food security and regional development, which is treated as a cross-cutting theme across all policies. The politician strongly supports boosting agricultural competitiveness, calling for direct subsidies to be raised to 90–95% of the EU average. Criticism is aimed at the government’s slow progress regarding public procurement and public transport reform, and challenges the minister’s assertion regarding the benefits of lowering the value-added tax (VAT).
2024-09-17
Report by the Chancellor of Justice on the compliance of legal instruments with the Constitution and the performance of other duties imposed on the Chancellor of Justice by law.

15th Riigikogu, 4th session, plenary session

The most crucial topics are the efficiency of the agency’s work (specifically, the deadlines for responding to citizens) and the balance between individual liberties and children’s rights. The political focus is results-oriented, questioning whether current procedures and freedoms compromise the well-being of children. He/She adopts a questioning and concerned approach regarding the agency’s response deadlines and the accessibility of support services for children.
2024-09-16
First reading of the Draft Act on Amendments to the Act on Restrictions on the Acquisition of Immovable Property (321 SE)

The 15th Riigikogu, 4th session, plenary sitting.

No political position is expressed regarding the substance of the draft bill; the focus is exclusively procedural and directed toward compliance with procedural rules. The speaker's role is neutral, concentrating on conveying the decisions of the committee and the actions of the Riigikogu Board. The political framework is procedural rather than value- or substance-based.
2024-09-11
First reading of the Draft Act amending Section 27 of the Law on Preschool Institutions (319 SE)

Fifteenth Riigikogu, fourth session, plenary session

The political position strongly emphasizes the importance of local government autonomy, calling into question the appropriateness of state intervention when determining kindergarten fees. The speaker demands specific data from the presenter in order to verify the claims regarding the high kindergarten fees in Tartu. The stance is heavily policy- and value-based, defending the local community's right to make decisions.
2024-06-13
Financial Supervision Authority 2023 Annual Report

Fifteenth Riigikogu, Third Session, Plenary Session

Politically, the speaker focuses on issues of financial oversight, specifically the regulation of cryptocurrencies and public trust. He/She voices concern about whether, in the eyes of the average person, crypto is perceived as a drawn-out pyramid scheme that facilitates the concealment of income. The stance is cautious and calls for a regulatory assessment.
2024-06-13
Bank of Estonia 2023 Report

Fifteenth Riigikogu, Third Session, Plenary Session

The political focus is currently on inflation and market functioning issues, especially during crises. The speaker is concerned about whether companies exploited these crises for the purpose of unjustifiably raising prices, which suggests a moderately critical attitude toward market fairness. This represents a performance-driven approach that seeks explanations for economic phenomena.
2024-05-14
First Reading of the Draft Basic Education Act (419 SE)

15th Riigikogu, 3rd sitting, plenary session

The political position centers on the specifics and practical implementation of the draft Preschool Education Act, operating within a policy and administrative framework. The speaker is seeking clarification on how the proposed legislative amendments will impact the planning capacity of local municipalities and parents' rights regarding kindergarten placements. Ensuring the quality of education at the preschool level is also a crucial topic, particularly in light of the PISA test results.
2024-05-13
Proposal by the Chancellor of Justice for bringing the Money Laundering and Terrorist Financing Prevention Act, the Credit Institutions Act, the Law of Obligations Act, and the State Fees Act into conformity with the Constitution

15th Estonian Parliament, 3rd session, plenary session

The political stance focuses on the practical consequences of financial regulation (account closures) for private individuals. The position is inquisitive, seeking to clarify the scope and permanence of the restrictions (whether the closure is final or extends to other banks). The focus is policy-based, emphasizing issues of legal clarity and implementation.
2024-05-09
Debate on the matter of significant national importance: "E-elections – a threat to democracy."

15th Riigikogu, 3rd session, plenary session

The political stance is strongly in favor of e-voting, stressing that it is simply a choice, comparable to selecting a mode of transport. The speaker rejects the narrative that e-elections pose a threat to democracy, deeming the system reliable. The position is primarily procedural and focused on defending the system.
2024-05-08
Second Reading of the Bill on Amendments to the Food Act (378 SE)

15th Riigikogu, 3rd session, plenary session.

The political position is focused on advancing the draft amendment to the Food Act (378 SE), supporting consensus decisions to conclude the second reading. The stance is procedural and policy-based, emphasizing the need to ensure an effective date for the law that allows the President of the Republic sufficient time to conduct a thorough review during the law's promulgation. Support for the bill is strong and consensual.
2024-04-18
Discussion of the matter of significant national importance, initiated by the Environmental Committee, titled "The necessity and possibilities of introducing nuclear energy in Estonia"

15th Riigikogu, 3rd session, plenary sitting

The political focus is on the national nuclear energy question, emphasizing the need for serious discussions and decisions within the Riigikogu. The speaker’s current position is analytical, centered on identifying counterarguments against the establishment of a nuclear power plant. A personal stance on nuclear energy is not being disclosed; the issue is presented hypothetically.
2024-04-16
The Minister of Culture's 2024 Report on the Implementation of the State's Long-Term Development Strategy "Estonia 2035" (including the implementation of the "Estonian Sports Policy Fundamentals until 2030")

15th Riigikogu, 3rd sitting, plenary session

The political position focuses on the accessibility and regional distribution of cultural services (theatres). The speaker is moderately critical of the situation where tickets sell out quickly and regional reach is insufficient, demanding solutions from the minister to rectify the situation. The focus is on policy effectiveness and the accessibility of public services.
2024-04-11
Discussion of the Crucial National Issue: "How to Ensure the Future of Veterinary Medicine"

15th Riigikogu, 3rd session, plenary session

The central priority is resolving the veterinary crisis, which is being addressed as an issue of national security (food security) and public health. The political position is firmly geared toward increasing state intervention and funding to ensure the sustainability of the profession. Emphasis is placed on the need for a comprehensive and systemic solution, not merely financial aid, and there is support for increasing state-commissioned enrollment rather than relying on tuition-based education.
2024-04-02
First Reading of the Bill for the Amendment of the Food Act (378 SE)

15th Riigikogu, 3rd sitting, plenary sitting

The political position is one of strong support for the technical amendments to the Food Act, emphasizing the necessity of aligning the law with EU legislation and ensuring regulatory clarity. This stance is clearly policy-driven, focusing on saving taxpayer money and improving system efficiency. The draft bill is supported because it resolves practical issues and reduces state expenditure.
2024-03-19
The 2024 Report by the Minister of Health on the implementation of the state's long-term development strategy "Estonia 2035"

15th Riigikogu, 3rd session, plenary session

The political stance is highly critical of injecting additional funds into the Health Insurance Fund, especially given the projected 147 million euro deficit for 2025. The speaker stresses that the solution lies in promoting public behavior and education rather than relying on short-term financial injections. The formation of this position emphasizes political efficacy and a long-term strategy.
2024-03-07
Debate on the matter of national importance, "The Future of Estonian Energy 2035," initiated by the Estonian Reform Party parliamentary group.

Fifteenth Riigikogu, third sitting, plenary session

The political focus is heavily directed towards the future of Estonia's energy sector and its security of supply, particularly through the potential of gas power plants and biogas. Emphasis is placed on the need to balance climate considerations with strategic security, prioritizing the latter when dealing with critical infrastructure. The speaker approaches policy formulation through the lens of objective risks and strategic necessity, citing Russian aggression as the catalyst for the reassessment of energy policy.
2024-03-06
First reading of the Bill (359 SE) for the Act supplementing the Act on the Organization of the Energy Sector and the Act on Environmental Impact Assessment and Environmental Management System

15th Riigikogu, 3rd session, plenary session

The political focus is on the strategic planning of energy management and renewable energy. The speaker examines the justification for investing in offshore wind farms, acknowledging their higher cost but emphasizing the potentially greater energy output. The focus is clearly on a policy- and results-based framework.
2024-03-05
2024 Report by the Minister of Education and Research on the Implementation of the State's Long-Term Development Strategy "Eesti 2035" (Education Reforms)

15th Estonian Parliament, 3rd sitting, plenary session

The political focus is on the effectiveness of implementing education reforms and reducing student dropout rates. A requirement is being put forward to justify policy with specific research and analyses, which indicates a performance-based approach. The speaker supports ambitious goals, aiming to bring the dropout rate close to zero.
2024-02-15
Debate on the matter of national importance initiated by the Isamaa faction, titled "Estonia in Economic Recession. What is to be done?"

15th Riigikogu, 3rd sitting, plenary session

The political focus is on the structural causes of the economic recession, particularly concerning the shift in export capacity and raw material sources following the Russian aggression. The speaker champions the positive impact of high employment on public confidence and stresses the necessity for rational, rather than emotional, analysis. He clearly opposes imposing a moratorium on the climate law, viewing it as a crucial factor for remaining competitive in global trade.
2024-02-13
Debate on Foreign Policy as an Issue of Significant National Importance, initiated by the Foreign Affairs Committee

15th Estonian Parliament, 3rd session, plenary session

The political focus is strongly directed towards national defense and external security. There is firm support for the NATO member states' goal of contributing 2% of GDP, and the necessity of understanding Russia's intentions is underscored. Concern is expressed over the Hungarian Prime Minister's views regarding turning Ukraine into a buffer zone, which is seen as representing dangerous tendencies.
2024-02-08
First Reading of the Draft Resolution of the Riigikogu "On the Special Labeling and Sale of Insects and Insect-Containing Foods and Products" (222 OE)

15th Riigikogu, 3rd sitting, plenary session.

The political stance is firmly directed against the Riigikogu draft resolution (222 OE), stressing that it lacks any legal foundation, as food labeling is regulated at the European Union level (specifically, the Novel Food Regulation dating back to 1997). This position is clearly driven by both political and legal imperatives, focusing heavily on regulatory compliance and guaranteeing food safety. The speaker underscores that this is not a minor adjustment that could be implemented without amending legislation; instead, it would necessitate a violation of EU law.
2024-02-07
First Reading of the Bill Amending the Act on the Restriction of Acquisition of Immovable Property (284 SE)

15th Riigikogu, 3rd sitting, plenary sitting.

The political stance is heavily procedural, focusing on the advancement of Bill 284 SE through the Riigikogu proceedings. The speaker supports the decisions of the Rural Affairs Committee, stressing that the proposals to conclude the first reading and appoint a representative were adopted by consensus. The focus is on policy implementation and legislative efficiency.
2024-01-23
Overview of the state of Research and Development and government policy in this field.

15th Riigikogu, 3rd sitting, plenary session

The political stance expresses concern over the government's policy to centralize R&D funding. The speaker fears that centralizing these decisions might overlook issues specific to various ministries, particularly emphasizing the importance of agriculture and food production. Overall, the position is cautious and focused on the practical implementation of the policy.
2024-01-18
Debate on the National Issue of Crucial Importance: "Strong Rural Schools and a Strong School Network"

15th Riigikogu, 3rd sitting, plenary session

The politician’s primary focus is accelerating and optimizing the education network reform, as he considers the 2035 deadline for the gymnasium reform clearly too distant. He strongly supports implementing cross-municipal planning that is based on population distribution rather than administrative boundaries. The political framework is results-oriented, emphasizing the critical necessity of the reform for ensuring teacher sustainability. He also criticizes the lack of motivation among local governments when it comes to implementing these reforms.