Agenda Profile: Lauri Laats
First reading of the draft resolution of the Riigikogu, "Proposal to the Republic of Estonia's Government to carry out an analysis of the impact of young people’s social media use" (550 OE)
2025-02-10
15th Riigikogu, 5th sitting, plenary session
Political Position
The primary focus is the protection of youth health and awareness through comprehensive analysis; it does not support immediate restrictions but favors decisions made based on a holistic picture. We support the objective of the Riigikogu (Parliament) draft decision to conduct an impact analysis and present an action plan within 12 months, emphasizing the minimal nature of the associated costs. The position is balanced, value-based (focused on child protection), and policy-driven, rather than being excessively regulatory.
6 Speeches Analyzed
Topic Expertise
The use of data and research is emphasized: specifically mentioning youth social media consumption, the role of smart devices, and issues surrounding content control. Reference is made to an article in Ekspress and international examples (Australia, Utah, France), and the necessity of expert assessment and comprehensive analysis is highlighted. Misinformation is suspected, and there is a need to distinguish truth from false information, particularly in the context of AI usage.
6 Speeches Analyzed
Rhetorical Style
The tone is emphatically calm and analytical. It uses examples and comparisons (such as sunbeds/tattoos, overhead costs) and references international practice. A willingness to cooperate and an intention to involve experts and working groups emerge; the style is receptive to questions, not aggressive or propagandistic.
6 Speeches Analyzed
Activity Patterns
Intense committee work is underway, and the first reading in the Riigikogu is the backdrop to the subject matter; it highlights the need to form a working group, gather materials, and submit an analysis to the Cabinet. Continuous discussion and cooperation with colleagues are emphasized in order to find the best solution within 12 months.
6 Speeches Analyzed
Opposition Stance
Not enough data
6 Speeches Analyzed
Collaboration Style
Seeks cooperation with colleagues and broad-based consensus; recommends that collaboration proceed through the involvement of the working group and the government; emphasizes the joint fulfillment of this paramount task through cooperation.
6 Speeches Analyzed
Regional Focus
The matter is being addressed at the national level; there is no reference to specific regional crowdlings or regional industries; international examples are cited as guidance.
6 Speeches Analyzed
Economic Views
The support for the analysis and action plan highlights its minimal or zero cost, and the objective of protecting youth is financially sensible. It does not propose specific tax or funding models; it stresses that while the business models of major platforms demand scrutiny, the regulations themselves are unlikely to cause economic disruption.
6 Speeches Analyzed
Social Issues
The focus is on youth health and mental/physical well-being, emphasizing the importance of parental awareness and example. It highlights content threats and misinformation, stressing the need for better awareness and guidance. It also underscores the importance of learning and growth, the roles of youth and families, and the necessity of boosting education and awareness.
6 Speeches Analyzed
Legislative Focus
The draft legislation focuses on the Riigikogu (Parliament) adopting a resolution to conduct an analysis of the impact of social media on youth; the objective is to assign a task to the government, immediately compile an action plan within 12 months, and present the findings to the Riigikogu. The proposed plan stipulates the formation of a working group, the collection of relevant materials, and the development of solutions, thereby bringing the matter under the purview of Riigikogu deliberation and decision-making.
6 Speeches Analyzed