Agenda Profile: Lauri Läänemets

Draft law amending the Competition Act and, in consequence, amending other laws (609 SE) - second reading

2025-06-10

15th Riigikogu, 5th session, plenary sitting.

Political Position
The political position is moderately critical of the draft amendment to the Competition Act, casting doubt on its benefit to the Estonian economy and small businesses. The opposition is framed by concerns regarding policy effectiveness and procedural shortcomings, highlighting the risk that cases may become time-barred due to lengthy proceedings. The speaker suspects that the draft bill primarily serves the interests of large business concerns.

3 Speeches Analyzed
Topic Expertise
The speaker demonstrates expertise regarding the procedural aspects of competition law, referring to the six stages of administrative and criminal proceedings. The analysis focuses on the negative impact caused by the length of these processes, emphasizing the risk that cases might expire under the statute of limitations, which ultimately renders the activities of the Competition Authority futile.

3 Speeches Analyzed
Rhetorical Style
The rhetorical style is analytical and interrogative, beginning with a polite but ironic acknowledgment regarding the minister's unusual presence. The speaker employs logical argumentation, focusing on the practical shortcomings of the policy and suspecting business interests hidden behind the draft bill.

3 Speeches Analyzed
Activity Patterns
The speaker is actively involved in the legislative process, attending the plenary session for the second reading of the Competition Act. They are forced to leave the session to participate in a committee meeting taking place simultaneously, where a draft bill proposed by the Social Democrats is on the agenda, which points to a tight and parallel work schedule.

3 Speeches Analyzed
Opposition Stance
The controversy is aimed at the content of the draft bill, with suspicions that it serves the interests of large corporations rather than the Estonian economy more broadly. Criticism is also leveled at government representatives (the minister) regarding their unusual presence and the true motives behind the bill, citing concerns stemming from the context.

3 Speeches Analyzed
Collaboration Style
The speaker referred to cooperation with the Social Democrats, as he is leaving the session to participate in the committee discussion of their draft bill. He demonstrated awareness of the involvement of other politicians (Marek Reinaas, Liisa Pakosta) in the topic, yet his own style of cooperation remains critical concerning the draft legislation.

3 Speeches Analyzed
Regional Focus
Insufficient data.

3 Speeches Analyzed
Economic Views
Economic perspectives emphasize the need for a strong and functional competitive environment that would support the wider Estonian economy. The speaker is critical of regulation that appears to favor large business interests and fails to help small businesses.

3 Speeches Analyzed
Social Issues
Insufficient data.

3 Speeches Analyzed
Legislative Focus
The legislative focus is centered on the critical analysis of the Draft Amendment to the Competition Act (609 SE) during its second reading, where he serves as an opposing party. Furthermore, the speaker is engaged in the committee proceedings concerning the Social Democrats' bill, actively participating in the drafting and shaping of various pieces of legislation.

3 Speeches Analyzed