Agenda Profile: Arvo Aller
Second reading of the draft law (469 SE) ratifying the International Labour Organization’s (ILO) Convention No. 190 concerning the elimination of violence and harassment in the world of work
2024-10-24
15th Riigikogu, 4th sitting, plenary session
Political Position
The political position is strongly opposed to the ratification of International Labour Organization Convention No. 190 (469 SE), which the Conservative People's Party of Estonia (EKRE) will not approve. This stance is value-based, emphasizing that the convention is unnecessary because its core principles are already guaranteed under the Constitution of the Republic of Estonia. The opposition is intense, particularly concerning the requirements related to social gender and the languages of foreign workers.
3 Speeches Analyzed
Topic Expertise
The speaker demonstrates knowledge of the procedure for ratifying international conventions, particularly the complexity of proposing amendments concerning the translated text, the authentic version, and recommendations. Specific data is utilized regarding the number of countries that have joined (43) and enforced (31) the convention, referencing the explanatory memorandum. They are also aware of the Estonian parties that have acceded to the convention, naming the Ministry of Social Affairs.
3 Speeches Analyzed
Rhetorical Style
The rhetorical style is twofold: initially procedural and inquisitive, but it later becomes strongly combative and emotional. Extreme and condemnatory expressions are used ("absurd," "for heaven's sake") along with an ironic analogy (the cat litter example) to ridicule the concept of social gender. The appeals are primarily value-based and logical, challenging the practical necessity of the convention.
3 Speeches Analyzed
Activity Patterns
The pattern of activity is confined to appearances during the second reading of a specific bill, where both procedural questions and strong opposition are raised prior to the final vote. The speaker points out that there was nothing to discuss in the committee between the two readings, as no amendments were submitted. Data regarding broader patterns of activity are insufficient.
3 Speeches Analyzed
Opposition Stance
The primary opposition focuses on the substance of the International Labour Organization convention and the perceived need for its ratification in Estonia, which is widely viewed as both incomprehensible and unnecessary. Criticism is also leveled against the rapporteur and the government for failing to provide answers (for instance, regarding the number of countries that have ratified the convention) and for the procedural confusion surrounding the introduction of amendments.
3 Speeches Analyzed
Collaboration Style
The style of cooperation demonstrates alignment with his faction colleague (Varro Vooglaid), referencing similar issues and concerns. The commission's unanimity and the absence of proposals are noted, suggesting resistance to the prevailing consensus. There is no evidence of openness to compromise or cross-party cooperation.
3 Speeches Analyzed
Regional Focus
The focus is on international issues (the ILO convention) and their impact on Estonia’s national sovereignty, constitution, and language policy. Concern is raised regarding the provision of informational outreach in the languages of foreign workers, which is tied to domestic language policy and identity. There is a lack of attention paid to specific local or regional Estonian topics.
3 Speeches Analyzed
Economic Views
Economic perspectives center on opposing the implementation of international regulation within the labor market, particularly regulations that impose obligations on employers (such as those concerning social gender issues). Reluctance is expressed regarding new regulatory burdens that require employers to take specific social aspects into consideration.
3 Speeches Analyzed
Social Issues
In social matters, strong opposition is voiced against introducing the concept of social gender through the convention, deeming it absurd and ridiculing it with a cat analogy. Concerns are raised regarding the requirement to create curricula that incorporate the gender aspect at an early school age. Criticism is particularly sharp concerning informational work being conducted in the languages of foreign workers, which is viewed as a threat to the status of the Estonian language.
3 Speeches Analyzed
Legislative Focus
The legislative focus is currently centered on the opposition to the draft bill (469 SE) concerning the ratification of International Labour Organization Convention No. 190. This bill is currently in its second reading and is moving toward a final vote. The speaker is an active opponent, challenging both the necessity of the draft legislation and the procedural clarity surrounding the introduction of amendments.
3 Speeches Analyzed