Agenda Profile: Leo Kunnas
An inquiry regarding the narrowing scope of Estonian as a language of science (no. 716)
2025-03-17
15th Riigikogu, 5th session, plenary sitting
Political Position
The political stance centers on challenging the rationale behind English-language instruction in Estonian higher education institutions. The speaker is strongly skeptical of the current practice, emphasizing that Estonia cannot compete internationally even with standard English-speaking universities. This position is rooted in policy and values, focusing specifically on the appropriateness and overall sense of the current education policy.
1 Speeches Analyzed
Topic Expertise
The speaker demonstrates knowledge regarding the international competitiveness of higher education. They draw comparisons, referencing Oxford and Harvard universities, to emphasize the limited capacity of Estonian universities to compete in the English-speaking sphere. The expertise is evident in the search for a rational justification for the existing education policy.
1 Speeches Analyzed
Rhetorical Style
The rhetorical style is formal and direct, beginning with polite addresses to the session chairman and the minister. The speaker employs a logical appeal, searching for the "rational sense" behind the policy. The tone is skeptical and conveys a personal difficulty in grasping the current policy.
1 Speeches Analyzed
Activity Patterns
Not enough data.
1 Speeches Analyzed
Opposition Stance
The criticism is directed at the current higher education policy and, implicitly, at the minister responsible for it, from whom an explanation is being demanded. The opposition is policy-based, focusing on the system's lack of rationality and its inefficiency in international competition.
1 Speeches Analyzed
Collaboration Style
Insufficient data.
1 Speeches Analyzed
Regional Focus
The focus is on the national level (Estonian higher education institutions) and international academic competitiveness. There is no mention of specific local regions or sectors within Estonia.
1 Speeches Analyzed
Economic Views
Insufficient data.
1 Speeches Analyzed
Social Issues
The speaker addresses social issues within the context of education and language policy. The speaker calls into question the widespread use of English-language instruction in Estonian higher education institutions, thereby indirectly defending the national educational space and its quality.
1 Speeches Analyzed
Legislative Focus
The legislative focus is on holding the minister accountable and questioning the foundations of the current education policy through an interpellation. Specific draft legislation or amendments are not mentioned.
1 Speeches Analyzed