Agenda Profile: Lauri Läänemets
Second reading of the draft law on the state's supplementary budget for 2025 (651 SE)
2025-06-11
15th Riigikogu, 5th session, plenary sitting
Political Position
A strong oppositional stance regarding the supplementary budget and economic policy of the government (Reform Party, Isamaa), which are considered biased and one-sided. The main issues are economic inequality, the regressive tax system, and the abolition of kindergarten place fees. The political framework is strongly value-based, focusing on social justice and the criticism of the neoliberal right-wing approach. A fundamental shift away from right-wing economic policy is demanded.
8 Speeches Analyzed
Topic Expertise
Shows deep knowledge of tax and economic policy, using terms such as regressive taxation, flat taxes, and progressive income tax. Cites international authorities (IMF, OECD) and analyses by the Bank of Estonia regarding wealth concentration to support the arguments. Focuses on explaining the link between investing in people (education, health) and economic growth.
8 Speeches Analyzed
Rhetorical Style
The tone is very critical, combative, and forceful, especially regarding right-wing dogmas and the 30-year economic policy. It uses strong emotional appeals (Estonian families are suffering, class society) combined with logical arguments (inequality statistics, the need for investment). The style is formal yet passionate, calling for an honest tax debate.
8 Speeches Analyzed
Activity Patterns
The individual actively participated in the second reading of the supplementary budget, delivering substantive remarks and making procedural requests (for example, regarding extra time or voting). They also mentioned a previous inquiry directed to the Prime Minister concerning kindergarten tuition fees, which suggests consistent engagement with topical issues.
8 Speeches Analyzed
Opposition Stance
The main opponents are the Reform Party and Isamaa, who are accused of pursuing an unfair right-wing economic policy that has lasted 30 years. The criticism is policy- and value-based, accusing the Reform Party of political gamesmanship and irresponsibility (citing the example of the Tallinn kindergarten fee). Compromise with the right-wing direction is ruled out; a fundamental change in policy direction is demanded.
8 Speeches Analyzed
Collaboration Style
It points to cooperation within the Social Democratic faction regarding proposals and supports opposition initiatives in Tallinn, although it criticizes the irresponsibility of the Reform Party's actions. It calls for support for the SDE proposals (kindergarten funding, subsistence benefits), but shows no willingness to compromise with the government on the fundamental directions of economic policy.
8 Speeches Analyzed
Regional Focus
It primarily focuses on the national level (the Estonian economy, the tax system, and kindergarten fees nationwide). It uses the example of the City of Tallinn abolishing kindergarten fees to illustrate the deficiencies in national policy and the Reform Party's irresponsibility at the local level.
8 Speeches Analyzed
Economic Views
The text advocates for a fairer distribution of wealth and stands in opposition to neoliberal right-wing policies. It supports a progressive income tax, reduced VAT on food (9% instead of 24%), and a greater tax contribution from the wealthiest 10%. Furthermore, it stresses the necessity of investing in people (education and health) to secure economic growth, while criticizing the reliance on cheap foreign labor as a solution.
8 Speeches Analyzed
Social Issues
The central social theme is the abolition of kindergarten fees across Estonia to support family coping mechanisms and children's futures. It emphasizes income inequality and the danger of a class society emerging, where those born into poor families remain poor. It also mentions the need to raise the limit for the subsistence benefit and stresses the importance of healthcare.
8 Speeches Analyzed
Legislative Focus
The main focus is opposing the draft law concerning the State's 2025 supplementary budget (651 SE) and submitting corresponding amendments. It supports the Social Democrats' proposed amendments to abolish kindergarten fees across Estonia and to raise the threshold for subsistence benefits. It criticizes the permanent establishment of the VAT through the supplementary budget.
8 Speeches Analyzed