Agenda Profile: Alar Laneman
Draft law (642 SE) for withdrawing from the convention prohibiting the use, stockpiling, production and transfer of anti-personnel mines and requiring their destruction – first reading
2025-05-21
Fifteenth Riigikogu, Fifth Session, Plenary Session.
Political Position
The political focus is squarely on national defense and security, with strong support for Bill 642 SE, which concerns withdrawal from the Anti-Personnel Mine Convention. This decision is justified by the existential threat and the necessity for a small state to employ every available means, thereby highlighting the pragmatic and bold character of the policy. The speaker considers this step a logical component of the government's existing efforts to develop national defense capabilities.
1 Speeches Analyzed
Topic Expertise
The speaker demonstrates expertise regarding national defense and the responsible deployment of weapon systems, drawing a distinction between the nature of the instrument and the responsibility of the user. Reference is made to the planning-based culture, documentation, and designated areas within the Defense Forces that ensure responsible usage. Furthermore, the ineffectiveness of the convention is analyzed, citing the proliferation of improvised explosive devices (IEDs) as a key example.
1 Speeches Analyzed
Rhetorical Style
The speech is serious and urgent in tone, emphasizing that "special times require special decisions," as well as courage. A balanced mix of logical arguments (the ineffectiveness of the convention, responsible usage) and an emotional appeal is used to demonstrate the seriousness of the will to defend. Simple but impactful metaphors are employed, such as: "The gun is not guilty; the one who pulls the trigger is guilty."
1 Speeches Analyzed
Activity Patterns
No data available
1 Speeches Analyzed
Opposition Stance
The criticism is aimed at the historical political agenda that masked itself as fighting for peace, and indirectly at those who prioritize the convention over national defense. The eastern neighbor (the aggressor state) is directly criticized for using landmines in Ukraine, demonstrating the treaty’s ineffectiveness in protecting civilians.
1 Speeches Analyzed
Collaboration Style
The speaker emphasized the strong and unified support of the Reform Party's parliamentary group for the draft legislation, demonstrating effective internal cooperation within the party. A positive reference was made to "the good preceding speaker," suggesting collaboration among those supporting the bill. This decision aligns with the government's ongoing efforts to enhance national defense.
1 Speeches Analyzed
Regional Focus
The focus is on national security, encompassing the protection of border areas, critical regions, and critical infrastructure. The international focus relates to aggression and the impact of treaties, highlighting the eastern neighbor's conduct in Ukraine. Local or regional topics are absent.
1 Speeches Analyzed
Economic Views
No data available
1 Speeches Analyzed
Social Issues
Social issues concern the safety of civilians, recognizing the tragic historical background associated with irresponsible mine-laying. The speaker emphasizes that a responsible culture and planning within the Defence Forces (specifically marking and documentation) are necessary for protecting and safeguarding its population.
1 Speeches Analyzed
Legislative Focus
The primary legislative focus is the support and adoption of Bill 642 SE (withdrawal from the Landmine Convention). The speaker is a strong proponent of this specific defense policy initiative, viewing it as an extremely valuable and necessary decision for national defense.
1 Speeches Analyzed