Agenda Profile: Leo Kunnas
Inquiry Regarding the Confiscation of the Estonian Soldier Memorial (no 642)
2024-10-21
15th Riigikogu, 4th session, plenary sitting
Political Position
The most salient issue is the balancing of historical memory concerning the Second World War, stressing the necessity of commemorating with dignity those Estonians who fought against the Red Army. This position is strongly value-based, centered on the question of national justice and the remembrance of ancestors. The political objective is to establish a nationally legitimate method for commemorating those who have previously been honored in a more modest fashion or in connection with the German state's involvement.
1 Speeches Analyzed
Topic Expertise
The speaker demonstrates a deep understanding of Estonian historical memory and the policy surrounding monuments, drawing a clear distinction between the traditions of commemorating the War of Independence and the Second World War. He/She uses specific historical terminology and references the existence of memorials in every historical parish and rural municipality, indicating knowledge of the local culture of remembrance.
1 Speeches Analyzed
Rhetorical Style
The rhetorical style is formal and respectful, directly addressing the chairman of the session and the minister. The speech is structured around a logical discussion of historical injustice and the existing gaps in commemoration. Instead of emotional appeals, a measured and politically sensitive question is presented regarding finding a national solution.
1 Speeches Analyzed
Activity Patterns
Data is scarce.
1 Speeches Analyzed
Opposition Stance
The criticism is aimed at historical policies that have excluded Estonians who fought against the Red Army from the focus of state commemoration. The opposition is directed instead at the narrative and inaction that have created a situation where only the memory of Red Army fighters has been properly honored.
1 Speeches Analyzed
Collaboration Style
The speaker is seeking cooperation with the executive power (the minister), posing a question as an official inquiry that demands a national and legitimate resolution regarding the issue of historical memory. This suggests a desire to establish a correct and official course of action with the support of the government.
1 Speeches Analyzed
Regional Focus
The focus is on the national level, examining the role of the Estonian state in shaping historical memory. It is noted that memorials to the War of Independence are present in every historical parish and rural municipality, which demonstrates an awareness of the nationwide distribution of the memorial culture.
1 Speeches Analyzed
Economic Views
Data is scarce.
1 Speeches Analyzed
Social Issues
Social topics include historical memory and national identity, emphasizing the need to expand state commemoration. The aim is to guarantee a dignified place for the memory of Estonians who fought against the Red Army in the Second World War, which is crucial for the integrity of the national narrative.
1 Speeches Analyzed
Legislative Focus
The focus is on obtaining political guidance and a legitimate course of action from the government regarding the issue of historical memory, which is expressed through the submission of an interpellation. The objective is to initiate a political debate on how the state should legally and properly commemorate anti-Soviet fighters.
1 Speeches Analyzed