Agenda Profile: Helmen Kütt
First Reading of the Draft Resolution of the Riigikogu "Making a Proposal to the Government of the Republic" (713 OE)
2025-11-03
The 15th Riigikogu, 6th Session, Plenary Sitting
Political Position
The political stance focuses strongly on alleviating absolute poverty, demanding that the minimum income threshold be raised to at least 300 euros, as the current limit (€200/€220) falls far short of the actual cost of living minimum (€345.80). This position is value-based, emphasizing needs-based assistance and solidarity with the most vulnerable members of society (single parents, the elderly, and low-wage earners). The speaker criticizes the government’s slow and inadequate action regarding this issue.
16 Speeches Analyzed
Topic Expertise
The speaker demonstrates thorough expertise in the field of social welfare, particularly regarding the methodologies for subsistence benefit and the living minimum, citing specific figures and data from Statistics Estonia. Previous work experience in the social services department is mentioned, along with knowledge of the practical difficulties and embarrassment involved in applying for the benefit. A detailed budget calculation regarding the cost of raising the subsistence level (12–13 million euros annually) is also presented.
16 Speeches Analyzed
Rhetorical Style
The rhetorical style is insistent and passionate, combining emotional appeals (the plight of people in hardship, the embarrassment of requesting support) with the citation of specific figures and explanatory memoranda. Despite the political pessimism (knowing the bill won't secure 51 votes), the speaker conveys persistent hope and a measured approach when clarifying the underlying principles. Direct addresses are employed, targeting both those present in the chamber and colleagues sitting in their offices.
16 Speeches Analyzed
Activity Patterns
The speaker is an active initiator of legislation, presenting Riigikogu draft resolution 713 OE and participating in its first reading. He/She refers to previous, unsuccessful attempts (an amendment proposal to the supplementary budget during the summer) and new initiatives (an amendment proposal to the 2026 state budget).
16 Speeches Analyzed
Opposition Stance
The criticism is aimed at the government and the ruling coalition, who are accused of acting too slowly to alleviate poverty and unfairly distributing resources. A major point of criticism is the abolition of the tax hump, a move that primarily benefits the wealthier population, even as the 12–13 million euros required to support those in need cannot be found. The criticism is based on policy and values, not personal attacks.
16 Speeches Analyzed
Collaboration Style
The speaker stresses the necessity of cross-party cooperation, particularly when addressing the needs of the socially vulnerable, and urges both the opposition and the coalition to work together for the common good. There is hope that this topic is significant enough to transcend political differences and lead to a bipartisan consensus during the deliberation of the state budget.
16 Speeches Analyzed
Regional Focus
The focus is national, centering on the nationwide subsistence minimum, the absolute poverty line, and the state budget process. Local governments are mentioned as the administrators of the support, but there is no specific regional emphasis.
16 Speeches Analyzed
Economic Views
The speaker advocates for robust social redistribution via needs-based support, deeming it both fair and affordable for the state (estimated at 12–13 million euros). Criticism is leveled against the government's tax policy, which favors higher-income residents (the so-called 'tax hump'), as well as the high VAT on foodstuffs, which severely complicates the livelihood of low-wage earners.
16 Speeches Analyzed
Social Issues
The primary social issue is absolute poverty, which affects the elderly, single parents, and low-income families, and the necessity of ensuring they have the minimum resources required to meet their basic needs. Furthermore, concern was raised regarding the partial loss of funding for children's extracurricular activities and the elimination of unemployment benefits for young people, which increases the financial burden on families.
16 Speeches Analyzed
Legislative Focus
The legislative focus is on Riigikogu Draft Resolution 713 OE, which proposes raising the subsistence minimum to 300 euros for the government, as well as amendments to the 2026 state budget with the same objective. The speaker is the initiator and a strong proponent of measures aimed at the rapid alleviation of poverty.
16 Speeches Analyzed