Agenda Profile: Lauri Laats

The most important topics are tax policy and energy reforms, as well as improving regional competitiveness. He is critical of the government's economic policy, emphasizing that taxes must be reviewed because consumption taxes and inflation disproportionately burden the poor and the middle class, which, in his view, does not promote productivity. He advocates considering tax differentiation for regions and stresses the need to invest in high technology and higher education, while simultaneously questioning the sustainability of the government’s current green transition path. The overall tone is critical, yet he offers concrete alternatives and solutions, rather than merely pointing out concerns.

The presentation heavily utilized data: 0.3% economic growth, 4.6% inflation (Eurostat), unemployment figures (2024 Q4 – 55,000; Q1 – 64,000), the impact of the car tax, and changes to VAT and other taxes. The line of reasoning covers energy network problems, the scope of ENMAK, and the criticism of the wind energy system found in the Swedish study. The core focus areas are the impact of tax and energy policy on the economy and the need to re-evaluate policies to increase assets and productivity.

The speaking style is direct and critical; he often employs emotional assessments (e.g., “regrettable”) alongside numerical evidence. The tone is serious, blending accusations directed at the government with the offering of solutions. The style relies on data and arguments, rather than being purely ideological. Specific key points are strongly emphasized, and he seeks to foster discussion and resilience, rather than merely generating emotional impact.

Participated in the sitting of the Riigikogu Economic Affairs Committee on 05.06.2025 and presented lengthy observations and solution proposals. Refers to previous reports and data, emphasizing that the government's message regarding the economy does not correspond to reality. Creates the impression of being a regular representative of the critical wing, but provides no direct reference to slightly earlier or subsequent sittings.

A critical attitude is expressed towards the government's economic policy and the direction of the green transition. The tax policy is accused of taxing consumption, which makes life harder for the poorest and middle-income people. The current economic policy is not supported, and it is argued that it increases inflation and reduces consumption. No compromise is visible; rather, there is a clear, critical, and alternative understanding of how improvements should be made.

It fosters a cooperative attitude but offers concrete alternatives and guides interaction with the government (e.g., “some directions have been given to the government”). There is no sign of direct cooperation or a coalition-based approach; rather, the tone is independent, critical, and focused on finding solutions.

It emphasizes the importance of regional competitiveness and specific regional tax differentiations. It argues that achieving regional balance can increase job creation and the viability of economic activity, and recommends considering specific tax allowances for regional economies.

In developing the economy, the review of tax policy and the reduction of the impact of consumption taxes are deemed important, given that they disproportionately burden the most vulnerable populations. The current energy configuration is criticized; it is argued that green energy ambitions are unsustainable, necessitating support for the operation of oil shale or nuclear power plants. Recommendations focus on investments in high technology, higher education, and retraining programs to boost productivity and decrease unemployment. The policy favors correcting regional disparities and utilizing tax exceptions to balance economic impacts.

The text raises the social justice perspective regarding the impact of tax policy, arguing that taxes which burden low- and middle-income individuals increase the cost of living and inflation. It highlights the need to expand retraining and education as means of reducing unemployment and promoting social equity in economic policy. Specific legal assumptions are not discussed, but the growth of inequality is emphasized as a critical issue.

The text emphasizes that discussions and directives for the government are priorities, focusing on reforms in tax policy and energy, as well as investments in high technology and higher education. Specific legislative drafts are not known, but the need for new directions and continued discussion is stressed in order to improve productivity and economic growth. This demonstrates the role as a critical representative in the discussion of the national issue being initiated.