Session Profile: Lauri Laats
15th Riigikogu, 3rd session, plenary session
2024-05-29
Political Position
The representative of the Centre Party faction is staunchly opposed to the government’s tax policy. He stresses that the current coalition has increased the tax burden and exacerbated poverty, and he prioritizes improving the standard of living for the populace. He advocates for a proactive, people-first tax policy that emphasizes social justice (such as lowering the VAT on food) and increasing funding for youth extracurricular activities. His approach is policy- and value-driven, focusing on protecting the welfare and equality of the people.
7 Speeches Analyzed
Topic Expertise
He demonstrates knowledge of tax and social policy, referencing the material deprivation affecting 350,000 people and inflation (approximately 40% over the last two years). The core message focuses on the impact of the VAT rate on foodstuffs and comparing European examples, including countries with a lower VAT. He discusses the effect of consumption taxes on poorer populations and proposes tax-related solutions (e.g., a bank tax, taxing digital advertising), while emphasizing the role of the Finance Committee in debating issues that affect people's livelihoods.
7 Speeches Analyzed
Rhetorical Style
The style is combative and emotional, utilizing direct address and rhetorical questions. A moral argument is developed, focusing on human welfare and poverty reduction, and numerical data is provided to reinforce the message. The language is distinctly political, and the objective is to mobilize listeners to take action and influence the government.
7 Speeches Analyzed
Activity Patterns
In the plenary sessions held on May 29, 2024, several short speeches were delivered by the Centre Party faction; the focus was placed on the discussion of draft legislation and the Finance Committee. Frequent references to the rostrum, the role of the committees, and the expansion of debates indicate the regular utilization of the plenary mechanism and active participation on the same subject.
7 Speeches Analyzed
Opposition Stance
Significant opposition to the coalition: deep criticism regarding the tax policy and the deepening of poverty resulting from policy missions. The coalition's decisions and unaddressed issues, which are being treated as neglected needs, are under dispute. An intense, non-conciliatory tone, coupled with an emphasis on highlighting their own legislative drafts and solutions.
7 Speeches Analyzed
Collaboration Style
Although representing the opposition, [the individual/group] shows a certain willingness to cooperate: they wish the Finance Committee would discuss the issues and involve colleagues more broadly. However, the tone remains critical, and attention is drawn to the fact that cooperation must involve debate and ultimately pave the way for the adoption of draft legislation.
7 Speeches Analyzed
Regional Focus
Not enough data.
7 Speeches Analyzed
Economic Views
The economic outlook emphasizes a better distribution of consumption taxes and the overall tax burden, and at least a broader contribution to alleviating poverty. The draft legislation includes lowering the VAT on food, taxing banks and digital advertising, and directing funding toward youth extracurricular activities. There are also proposals concerning the tax package and tax reform, along with the need to find additional funds from various sources to reduce the pressure on the lowest earners.
7 Speeches Analyzed
Social Issues
The primary focus is placed on alleviating poverty, ensuring food security, and financing youth extracurricular activities. Emphasis is also placed on safeguarding the health of children and youth and preserving the demographic fragility, alongside a demand for sufficient funding allocations for extracurricular programs. Cuts to children's and youth programs are viewed as direct detriment, leading to an emphasis on increased funding and a more equitable tax policy.
7 Speeches Analyzed
Legislative Focus
The legislative focus is on tax policy reforms: the Centre Party's bill to lower VAT on food (potentially to 5%) and changes in consumption taxes. Additionally, ideas are being floated regarding the possibility of a temporary solidarity bank tax and the taxation of digital advertising, in order to finance youth extracurricular activities. He emphasizes the discussion of the bills in the Finance Committee and is either the initiator or a strong supporter of the bill.
7 Speeches Analyzed