Agenda Profile: Lauri Laats

The main topics are the security and secrecy of elections, and restoring public trust in them. He/She emphasizes adherence to constitutional principles (uniform, direct, secret elections) and remains skeptical about the security of e-voting, arguing for the necessity of increasing transparency and verifiability. Central to the recommendation is an independent investigative commission and the option of a temporary transition to safer voting methods; the position is strongly problem-based and solution-oriented, but it does not comprehensively confirm the termination of e-voting as the ultimate goal, but rather views it as a necessary starting point for initiating changes.

It emphasizes constitutional principles and international standards (OSCE 2023 reports), utilizes quantitative data (e.g., approximately 40% or more of society does not trust e-voting; voter turnout figures are around 60%), and highlights international examples and studies (Norway, Finland, Germany, Ireland, USA, France). It mentions the work of TalTech researchers and points to the necessity of involving independent experts for confirmation or refutation. The text is based on facts, report references, and study data to reflect issues concerning trust and security.

Characterized by a local and emotional tinge, yet simultaneously presenting arguments that appear technical. It utilizes examples (President Karis, Kiidjärve Library), statistics, and references to international reports, alongside direct, uncompromisingly strong assertions. It frames the conversation as tense and highly motivated, but aims for a constructive exchange of ideas and an inclusive solution through a jointly established commission and the involvement of expert analysis.

Systematic participation on the same day (2025-04-21) in the Riigikogu standing debate addressing the formation of the Riigikogu investigation committee. Repeated reference is made to the preceding directive (OSCE reports, 2023 observation report) and the proposed workflow: analysis of TalTech findings, involvement of an independent expert, consideration of audit services, assessment of mobile voting risks, and submission of the final report on December 1, 2025. This signals the necessity of a broad-based discussion and parliamentary support.

The most pointed criticism comes from the arguments presented by the factions opposing e-voting (EKRE, Estonian Centre Party) – namely, secrecy, auditability, and trust being cited as the primary concerns. They emphasize that 40% of society lacks faith in the system, characterizing this as the core issue that must be tackled, but they do not believe that e-elections could currently function securely. They are delivering the message of leadership and political opposition and might call for the formation of a commission to restrict or reshape the process, but they may not allow e-voting to continue fully.

This discussion highlights the importance of bipartisanship and cross-party cooperation: the commission must be non-partisan, and external experts and independent researchers will be invited to join. The aim is to incorporate both domestic and foreign experience, alongside open dialogue with various stakeholders. He/She emphasizes the potential for collaboration and a compromise-centered approach to find a solution that satisfies the broader public.

At the national level of the Riigikogu, the focus is on the security and trustworthiness of e-elections, referencing international experiences and domestic examples (in the case of the city of Tallinn, attention is paid to the reduction of the number of polling stations, if permitted). The only regional context consists of references to the Kiidjärve library and the city of Tallinn; the main focus, however, remains on issues of state and democracy.

A limited, specific discussion of financial policy or economic issues is absent. The possibility of engaging outsourced auditing services is mentioned, and costs and resources are discussed in an inquiry context within the same framework; specific tax or budgetary policy is not described. Therefore, not enough data.

The focus is on democracy, the secrecy of the ballot, and trust in state institutions. Central to this are the methods that either increase or decrease voter participation, as well as electoral transparency; it is emphasized that 40% of society does not trust e-voting, and this poses a threat to social cohesion and democracy. There are no references to specific, deeper social or cultural issues outside of the electoral process itself.

The main focus is on the draft resolution of the Riigikogu (576 OE) and the establishment of a Riigikogu investigative committee to examine the security of e-elections. The committee's core functions, the experts to be involved, audit methodologies, and the assessment of compliance with standards are detailed; the deadline for submitting the final report is set for December 1, 2025, along with the necessity for potential interim solutions. Speakers stress the utilization of international and domestic reports and the requirement to operate in accordance with the constitution.