Session Profile: Alar Laneman
15th Estonian Parliament, 3rd sitting, plenary session
2024-04-03
Political Position
The most crucial issue is national security and ensuring territorial integrity, which is why the speaker strongly advocates for establishing an independent, militarized border guard. He criticizes the current structure of border defense as fragmented and inadequate, stressing that Estonia's defense must begin right from the very first centimeter. The speaker prioritizes security, demanding that expenditures related to the green transition be postponed in favor of countering the immediate threat. This stance is deeply rooted in policy and values, focusing squarely on the vital interests of the state.
6 Speeches Analyzed
Topic Expertise
The speaker demonstrates expertise in the fields of national defense, border organization, and crisis management, employing technical terms such as "capabilities," "capability development," and "chain of functions." He analyzes detailed operational issues, such as the danger inherent in transferring command during escalation, and provides examples drawn from international experience (Hamas/Israel, Ukraine) and neighboring states (Finland, Latvia). Furthermore, he possesses knowledge of economic considerations, citing Arvi Hamburg's analysis regarding the cost of the green transition.
6 Speeches Analyzed
Rhetorical Style
The tone is urgent, serious, and anxious, underscoring the gravity of the situation and the immediate threat posed by the eastern neighbor. The speaker employs powerful logical arguments, drawing upon practical examples (such as driving a car at 120 km/h while switching drivers) and historical errors (the PPA merger). The rhetoric is formal, centered on operational effectiveness and state accountability.
6 Speeches Analyzed
Activity Patterns
The data is limited to an appearance at the Riigikogu plenary session, where the speaker introduces the draft resolution and actively participates in the ensuing debate. He/She is the initiator who seeks to highlight the need to address a structural security problem.
6 Speeches Analyzed
Opposition Stance
The criticism is aimed at the current executive power and previous governments, who failed to adapt the border guard structure to the changed threat level. Specific criticism is leveled against the prioritization of the green transition over security, and an earlier decision to merge the border guard, which was based on the false premise of a partnership with Russia. The critique is policy- and procedure-based, highlighting a distinct lack of accountability.
6 Speeches Analyzed
Collaboration Style
The speaker calls upon colleagues to address a serious problem and find solutions, citing collective responsibility at the level of the legislature and the executive branch. He stresses the necessity of sharing Estonia’s security message with European partners, highlighting the importance of international cooperation. He commends the daily excellent work of the personnel of the Police and Border Guard Board, the Defence Forces, and the Defence League, but criticizes the organization of the system.
6 Speeches Analyzed
Regional Focus
The focus is clearly at the national and international level, concentrating on the defense and security of Estonia's eastern border in light of Russia's declared hostility toward NATO. Regional examples cited include the border guard organization of Finland and Latvia, which should be taken as a model.
6 Speeches Analyzed
Economic Views
Economic considerations have been subordinated to security priorities, necessitating the postponement of major investments related to the green transition (approximately 1.5 billion euros annually). It is emphasized that the risks associated with the green transition do not pose an immediate threat, unlike Russia, and resources should be channeled toward strengthening national defense structures. Unrealized revenue from Eesti Energia and the timber sector is mentioned, which underscores the economic rationale.
6 Speeches Analyzed
Social Issues
When discussing social issues, stress is placed on the importance of maintaining conscription, even given the significant pressure and the necessity of minimizing casualties in potential conflicts. The primary focus remains on guaranteeing security and national defense, rather than addressing traditional social topics.
6 Speeches Analyzed
Legislative Focus
The main legislative priority is the submission of a draft resolution that would initiate the establishment of an independent, militarized border guard. The objective is to address the fragmentation in national defense planning and ensure that the capabilities required for border defense reside within a single agency, thereby avoiding issues related to the transfer of command during a crisis situation.
6 Speeches Analyzed