Agenda Profile: Lauri Laats

The formation of the Rail Baltic investigative committee in the Riigikogu (Estonian Parliament) is the main topic; the key representative emphasizes the need to increase transparency, reporting, and accountability, and to deepen cooperation among all three Baltic states. He is sharply critical of the current government's failure regarding the project's economic and administrative management, and stresses that the committee's goal is to find answers and solutions, not to establish a political position. The stance itself is strongly political and policy-oriented, aiming to achieve broader consensus within the Riigikogu and restore public trust.

The presentation draws upon reports from the National Audit Office and their numerical interpretations (2007: 3.6 billion; 2017: 5.8 billion; 2024: 23.8 billion), alongside inter-country differences, including land acquisition percentages (in Estonia, Latvia, and Lithuania). It highlights the necessity of a cost-benefit analysis, timing problems related to procurement activities and the acquisition of locomotives and rolling stock, and the deficiency of funding sources (the commencement of the 2027 European Structural Funds is currently absent). Defined, yet clearly documented economic metrics and risks constitute a central element of the overall topic.

The tone remains concerned, but is primarily rational and slightly invigorating in its delivery; it repeats phrases such as "colossal," "very large," and uses questions and direct directives ("where are we headed," "who is paying"). This is a combination of emotional engagement and factual presentation, which seeks to foster a willingness to participate and cooperate, while simultaneously leveling strong criticism against the government. The language is typically formalized, but employs powerful repetition and direct addresses to colleagues.

A likely high level of activity mentioned in the speech—across several speeches delivered on the same day, emphasizing the need for cooperation between factions and international cooperation. References meetings held in the chamber (“on the 12th”) and the intention to launch cross-parliamentary initiatives, as well as cooperation already underway with Latvia. Mentions the existing Rail Baltic support group and possible steps by special committees, indicating regular and jointly coordinated political activity.

The primary focus is the current government's controversial stance on the direction of the Rail Baltic project. This generates criticism, demanding clarity and answers, and warns of significant taxpayer losses associated with the project. The main thrust of the criticism is not limited merely to political infighting, but rather stresses the need for joint action—consensus and cooperation are essential. If a dedicated commission is not established, it suggests investigating the obscured issues through the anti-corruption commission.

The speeches emphasize the need for strong cooperation between the coalition and the opposition, alongside a Riigikogu-wide (parliamentary, or "cross-party") consensus. There is a desire for close involvement from the Baltic states (the Latvian Saeima, the Lithuanian Parliament), and cooperation with various standing and special committees (such as the anti-corruption special committee). It appears willing to consider various partnership initiatives and compromises.

The focus is on the Baltic project, particularly Estonia's collaboration with Latvia and Lithuania within the framework of Rail Baltic. It highlights the practical steps taken by Latvia and Lithuania and calls for inter-parliamentary cooperation among the Baltic states, as well as discussion at the level of the Baltic Assembly. The region plays a central role in shaping funding, addressing legal issues, and formulating joint decisions.

The economic perspective focuses on a project characterized by a large budgetary position and one that is borne by the taxpayer; it is emphasized that the total cost has increased, and the new period of the European structural funds does not cover the necessary financing. It is highlighted that the initial prices were lower, triggering questions: who pays, what are the sources covering the financing, and who will maintain. At the same time, it is mentioned that certain socio-economic steps (e.g., lowering the VAT on foodstuffs) have been treated as necessary responses already presented by certain lobbies (for an unrelated purpose, but in the context of easing food prices). Transparency and control at the parliamentary level are set as a high priority.

The themes highlighted in the speech center on the public sense of justice and people's livelihoods: specifically, concerns regarding public interest, compensation for land ownership, and the impact of the railway corridors on homes and properties. The necessity of accountability to society and avoiding oppressive burdens on taxpayers was mentioned. It was stressed that the Rail Baltic issue directly affects the daily lives and economic well-being of residents. Furthermore, significant social distress was noted, and the importance of public engagement and transparency were emphasized as key values.

The main objective is the formation of the Rail Baltic investigative commission in the Riigikogu and its leadership on a cross-party, supra-parliamentary basis. As a secondary measure, the plan involves compiling special reports and cooperating with Latvia and Lithuania. The central focus is the in-depth investigation of issues concerning the feasibility analysis, land acquisition, and the procurement of locomotives and rolling stock, and, if necessary, formulating alternative conclusions. Additionally, the possibility of appealing to the corruption commission is mentioned, should the parliament fail to support the decision to establish the commission.