Session Profile: Arvo Aller
15th Riigikogu, 5th session, plenary session
2025-02-25
Political Position
The political stance is firmly opposed to a constitutional amendment that would grant voting rights to non-citizens in local elections. The speaker emphasizes the necessity of strengthening Estonian national consciousness and promoting Estonian-language local governance, viewing the extension of voting rights to non-citizens as a threat to the long-term trajectory of Estonia's future. This position is clearly value-driven, stressing the distinct right and privilege inherent in citizenship.
1 Speeches Analyzed
Topic Expertise
The speaker demonstrates expertise in constitutional law, citing both the constitutional drafting process and the provisions concerning the obligations and existing rights of stateless persons (such as education, healthcare, and employment). The discussion also covers aspects of suffrage derived from the foundational treaties of the European Union, and cautions are raised regarding the complications associated with stripping citizens of aggressor states of their rights. The entire argument is grounded in legal interpretation and long-term legislative ramifications.
1 Speeches Analyzed
Rhetorical Style
The rhetorical style is formal and analytical, focusing on the long-term consequences of the constitutional amendment and the future of the nation. The speaker employs logical appeals, highlighting the link between the privileges and obligations of citizenship and encouraging the acquisition of citizenship. The tone is serious and persuasive, aiming to shift the coalition's support toward an alternative proposal.
1 Speeches Analyzed
Activity Patterns
The speaker references a recent activity, mentioning a visit to Narva on the morning of February 24th, in order to emphasize the presence of the Estonian flag and Estonian national sentiment there. Data is lacking regarding the regularity of other appearances or activities.
1 Speeches Analyzed
Opposition Stance
The main opposition is directed against the proposal by the coalition (or the initiators of the bill) to retain voting rights for stateless persons in the constitution. The criticism is policy-driven and principled, arguing that the amendment is neither expedient nor necessary for the Estonian state. The opposition is intense because the speaker views the change as a long-term threat to Estonia’s future direction.
1 Speeches Analyzed
Collaboration Style
The speaker calls upon the coalition and all parliamentary parties to support the alternative proposal put forth by 23 Riigikogu members, which would restrict voting rights in local elections to Estonian and EU citizens. This demonstrates a willingness to cooperate toward a specific legislative objective aimed at valuing citizenship.
1 Speeches Analyzed
Regional Focus
The address opens with a regional focus on Narva, highlighting its pro-Estonian sentiment and the presence of the Estonian flag on February 24th. The rest of the speech shifts to the national level (constitutional amendment) and international relations (EU citizens, aggressor states).
1 Speeches Analyzed
Economic Views
There is insufficient data. The speaker mentions that stateless persons have a constitutional right to work, but economic policy, taxation, or budget discipline are not addressed.
1 Speeches Analyzed
Social Issues
The primary social issue is citizenship and integration, which is addressed through the lens of suffrage, treating it as a special privilege that should motivate the acquisition of citizenship. The speaker suggests that remaining without citizenship might be a choice of convenience (e.g., simpler border crossing), and this should not grant the right to shape the country's future.
1 Speeches Analyzed
Legislative Focus
The legislative focus centers on opposing the draft constitutional amendment concerning the voting rights of stateless persons in local elections. The speaker takes the role of an objector and actively supports the alternative proposal put forward by 23 Riigikogu members to restrict suffrage exclusively to citizens of the Republic of Estonia and the European Union.
1 Speeches Analyzed