Session Profile: Leo Kunnas
15th Riigikogu, 3rd session, plenary session
2024-05-02
Political Position
The political focus centers on legislative clarity and religious freedom, particularly concerning the definition of terrorism, stressing that entire religious organizations cannot be declared terrorist. [The speaker/focus] strongly supports the transition of Orthodox Church congregations from the jurisdiction of the Moscow Patriarchate to that of the Patriarch of Constantinople, although acknowledging the secular limitations of the state. The speaker’s position is value-based, emphasizing constructiveness and clarity within the text of the law.
2 Speeches Analyzed
Topic Expertise
The speaker demonstrates expertise in matters of religion and state relations and international church governance, particularly concerning the jurisdiction of the Orthodox Church patriarchates (Moscow and Constantinople). Furthermore, they possess knowledge regarding the complexity of defining terrorism and extremism in connection with religious groups, utilizing concepts such as "caliphate" and "secular state."
2 Speeches Analyzed
Rhetorical Style
The style is polite and formal, addressing the rapporteur directly and respectfully. It primarily uses questions to gain clarity regarding the legislative process (how the improved text was reached) and the possibilities for achieving the desired political goals. The tone is analytical and constructive, praising positive developments.
2 Speeches Analyzed
Activity Patterns
The speaker participates in the plenary session by posing questions, which indicates active involvement in the debate. He/She notes that they were absent from the chamber for a period, which suggests an intermittent but focused presence during the discussion of the specific law.
2 Speeches Analyzed
Opposition Stance
The opposition was aimed at the initial draft of the law, which was deemed unacceptable because of its fundamental content, as it could have allowed an entire religious organization to be declared terrorist. The criticism is aimed at the substance of the policy and its lack of clarity, not at individuals.
2 Speeches Analyzed
Collaboration Style
The collaborative style is constructive; the speaker praises the positive progress and clarity of the legal text, referring to it as "a very positive development." He seeks information regarding how the committee or process managed to achieve a better outcome, demonstrating a desire to support successful lawmaking.
2 Speeches Analyzed
Regional Focus
The focus is on international and geopolitical issues (the jurisdiction of patriarchates, Islamic extremism), which directly affect Estonia’s domestic religious communities and security. Emphasis is placed on changing the jurisdiction of the Estonian Orthodox Church, which is a domestic political issue with an international dimension.
2 Speeches Analyzed
Economic Views
Not enough data.
2 Speeches Analyzed
Social Issues
It focuses on social issues concerning religious freedom and the political subordination of religious organizations. It emphasizes the need to distinguish between extremists and believers and supports the principles of a secular state, while simultaneously seeking to positively influence the church's independence from Moscow's influence.
2 Speeches Analyzed
Legislative Focus
The legislative focus is on improving the content of the statement or legal text to prevent the unfair labeling of entire religious groups. He/She is acting as a supporter regarding the amended and clearer legal text and is exploring ways in which legislative measures could contribute to changing the subordination of the Orthodox Church.
2 Speeches Analyzed