Agenda Profile: Arvo Aller
Draft law amending the Constitution of the Republic of Estonia (536 SE) – second reading
2025-02-25
15th Riigikogu, 5th session, plenary session
Political Position
This political stance centers on the draft constitutional amendment (536 SE), expressing strong opposition to granting voting rights to stateless individuals in local elections. The position is rooted in core values, stressing the unique right and privilege associated with Estonian citizenship, and highlighting the necessity of fostering an Estonian national outlook within local municipalities. The proposed change is regarded as a long-term, state-defining measure that is fundamentally unacceptable.
1 Speeches Analyzed
Topic Expertise
The speaker demonstrates expertise on constitutional law and rights, drawing a distinction between the existing constitutional rights of stateless persons (such as education, healthcare, and employment) and political rights. Furthermore, obligations stemming from the foundational treaties of the European Union concerning the electoral rights of EU citizens are referenced. Emphasis is placed on the long-term character of the constitution and the implications associated with its amendment.
1 Speeches Analyzed
Rhetorical Style
The speech is serious and cautionary, emphasizing the long-term consequences of the proposed change for Estonia's future and the country's trajectory. The rhetoric balances emotional appeals (referencing Narva, the blue-black-white national flag, and Estonian patriotism) with logical arguments concerning the value of citizenship and potential legislative threats. Formal language is employed, and the speaker appeals to the colleagues' sense of reason.
1 Speeches Analyzed
Activity Patterns
Participation in an event held in Narva on the morning of February 24th is mentioned, specifically highlighting the pro-Estonian atmosphere present there. Information regarding other activity patterns or regular appearances is unavailable.
1 Speeches Analyzed
Opposition Stance
The main opposition is directed against the coalition's constitutional amendment bill, which would grant voting rights to stateless persons. The criticism is policy-based, warning that this change will reduce the incentive to acquire Estonian citizenship and could even affect the results of future presidential elections. Critics also point to the potential danger of the amendment concerning citizens of aggressor states.
1 Speeches Analyzed
Collaboration Style
The speaker calls upon the coalition and all parliamentary parties to support a proposal by 23 members of the Riigikogu (Estonian Parliament), which would restrict voting rights exclusively to Estonian and EU citizens. This demonstrates a desire to achieve broad-based support for an alternative legislative solution that aligns with the speaker's values.
1 Speeches Analyzed
Regional Focus
The speech begins with a specific regional focus on Narva, highlighting its Estonian identity and its belonging to Estonia. This regional reference establishes the context for discussing themes of citizenship and loyalty, but a broader regional policy focus is not presented.
1 Speeches Analyzed
Economic Views
No data available
1 Speeches Analyzed
Social Issues
The primary social issue is citizenship policy and integration, where it is stressed that Estonian citizenship is a unique right and privilege. The speaker warns that granting voting rights to non-citizens removes the motivation to learn the Estonian language and apply for citizenship, citing convenience and easier border crossing as the reasons why citizenship has not been acquired.
1 Speeches Analyzed
Legislative Focus
The legislative focus is the rejection of the constitutional amendment bill (536 SE) during its second reading. The speaker strongly supports the proposal put forth by 23 members of the Riigikogu, which would restrict voting rights in local elections exclusively to citizens of Estonia and the European Union. The objective is to prevent the permanent enshrinement of voting rights for stateless persons in the constitution.
1 Speeches Analyzed