Agenda Profile: Irja Lutsar
Draft law amending the Act on Termination of Pregnancy and Sterilisation (459 SE) - First Reading
2024-11-11
15th Riigikogu, 4th session, plenary session
Political Position
The political focus is on the amendment (459 SE) to the Pregnancy Termination and Sterilization Act, which concerns abortion funding. The speaker(s) express strong opposition to the draft bill, emphasizing that it is inconsistent with other healthcare services and effectively punishes women. This position is heavily oriented toward policy and consequences, warning of the danger of illegal abortions and child abandonment. The Eesti 200 party does not support this legislative amendment.
3 Speeches Analyzed
Topic Expertise
The speaker(s) demonstrate a high level of expertise in the fields of medicine and lawmaking, particularly concerning abortion regulation and the funding of healthcare services. Technical terminology is employed, and specific legal sections (§ 5, § 6) are cited to highlight the lack of clarity in the draft bill's phrasing. One speaker stresses their medical background ("as a clinician") and offers comparative examples, including elective C-sections, vaccination, and treatment provided during the COVID-19 pandemic.
3 Speeches Analyzed
Rhetorical Style
The rhetorical style is formal, analytical, and cautious, focusing on logical arguments and the analysis of the practical consequences of the bill. A systematic structure is employed (point by point), and emphasis is placed on dangers such as illegal abortions and child neglect. The tone is rather concerned and cautionary, avoiding excessive emotionality but highlighting moral and fundamental issues.
3 Speeches Analyzed
Activity Patterns
The speaker(s) actively participated in the first reading of the specific draft legislation (Bill 459 SE), both posing questions to the rapporteur and delivering a more extensive statement of position. Reference is made to the previous thorough debate and work conducted in the Social Affairs Committee, which demonstrates active monitoring of the bill's proceedings.
3 Speeches Analyzed
Opposition Stance
The opposition is aimed at the initiators of Bill 459 SE. While their motives (changing the funding structure) are acknowledged, the negative social consequences of the draft legislation are sharply criticized. The criticism is policy- and procedural-based, accusing the bill of publicly shaming women and provoking defiance. The speaker calls for the bill to be rejected during the first reading.
3 Speeches Analyzed
Collaboration Style
The speaker demonstrates strong cooperation with their party ("Eesti 200 does not support this amendment") and supports the Social Affairs Committee's recommendation to reject the bill. Other Riigikogu members are also urged to follow this recommendation, citing the desire to achieve broader consensus for the bill's rejection.
3 Speeches Analyzed
Regional Focus
There is insufficient information.
3 Speeches Analyzed
Economic Views
The economic views emphasize social justice, opposing the termination of state funding, which would shift the financial burden onto those who are less well-off. The speaker opposes the transfer of costs, arguing that it would make necessary medical services (abortion) inaccessible to the poor, noting that a sum exceeding 200 euros constitutes a serious outlay.
3 Speeches Analyzed
Social Issues
Socio-politically, the existing abortion law is strongly defended, with emphasis placed on its humanity and fairness. The speaker warns that the proposed bill could lead to a rise in illegal abortions and the abandonment of newborns, expressing concern that women might neglect unwanted children. The legal amendment is viewed as the indirect shaming and punishment of women.
3 Speeches Analyzed
Legislative Focus
The legislative focus is on the rejection of Draft Bill 459 SE (Draft Act on Supplementing the Act on Termination of Pregnancy and Sterilization) at the first reading. The speaker is a strong opponent, concentrating on the ambiguity of the bill's wording and its conflict with other healthcare service regulations. The priority is maintaining the validity of a humane and just abortion law.
3 Speeches Analyzed