Session Profile: Lauri Laats

The primary focus is the formation of a commission to investigate e-elections and the restoration of trust in democratic institutions. Support is given to parliamentary, cross-party cooperation and adherence to constitutional principles (secrecy, uniformity), and the necessity of auditing and improving the e-voting system is emphasized. Some third parties have expressed opposition to e-voting (calling for a temporary transition to more secure solutions or the complete termination of e-voting), but the main emphasis remains on establishing the commission and stressing the importance of the investigation for restoring public confidence.

The text highlights the required skills and knowledge concerning election security, transparency, and auditing. These include: the analysis of deficiencies raised in OSCE observation reports, the incorporation of the work and findings of TalTech researchers, and issues related to the technical control of e-elections and potential manipulation. The necessity of involving independent experts and international experience is also presented.

The focus is analytical and deliberative in nature, and it often uses examples and references (OSCE, media coverage) to increase its impact. The texts feature a mix of emotional resonance, fact-based argumentation, and the defense of democratic values; the style is formal, but also seeks to highlight important ethical principles (confidentiality, transparency).

The necessity of establishing a commission and the substantive stages of its work (analyzing studies, involving experts, assessing auditing procedures, comparing with international standards, and offering proposals) are repeatedly stressed. Reference is made to the OSCE report and the Tallinn/state level, with the objective being to submit the final report on December 1, 2025. These texts will shape a unified discussion cycle for the plenary sessions on April 21, 2025.

Opponents are focusing on the risks associated with the security and secrecy of e-voting, and some were openly critical of the draft bill. Examples include: The Centre Party (the new Centre Party) does not support e-elections; a group emphasizes their distrust and calls for the establishment of a stable, transparent, and verifiable system. A significant challenge is considered to be the creation of doubt among the majority of society, along with criticism aimed at coalition policy.

Emphasis is placed on constructive work based on the principle of bipartisanship: a cross-party commission that invites experts from both domestic and international spheres. The inclusion of independent experts and specialists, along with the utilization of external experience, is highlighted as a crucial method of cooperation.

The framework is primarily national (referencing the Riigikogu/Parliament), but it also draws attention to local and international experiences (such as those in Finland, Norway, France, and others) within the context of e-voting. Examples drawn from specific dates and regional discussions (Mustamäe, Kiidjärve, Tallinn City Government) highlight the necessity of understanding both local and international influence.

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The core conflict revolves around a lack of trust in the electoral system (approximately 40% of society distrusts e-voting). Emphasis is placed on protecting the fundamental principles of democracy inherent in elections (secrecy, uniformity) and restoring public trust. Furthermore, the social impact of elections on democracy and state legitimacy is addressed.

The primary objective is the implementation of the Riigikogu decision: to establish an effective investigation committee with cross-party representation, involve experts, and submit the final report by December 1, 2025, at the latest. The investigation will encompass the analysis of TalTech's findings, the identification of potential manipulation, the evaluation of auditing procedures, comparison with international standards, and, if necessary, the recommendation of safer voting methods.