Agenda Profile: Lauri Läänemets
Draft law (645 SE) for the third reading amending the Simplified Taxation Act for Entrepreneurial Income, the Income Tax Act, and declaring the Security Levy Act invalid.
2025-06-18
15th Riigikogu, 5th session, plenary session
Political Position
The political position is one of strong opposition to the tax package under consideration (645 SE), as it perpetuates 30 years of regressive economic policy. The main focus is on a value-based approach, emphasizing social justice, the reduction of inequality, and the necessity of a change in direction for Estonian society. The speaker vows to continue awareness-raising efforts and opposition regarding tax policy over the next two years.
3 Speeches Analyzed
Topic Expertise
The speaker demonstrates expertise on the topics of taxation, economic inequality, and wealth distribution. Specific statistical data is utilized regarding wealth distribution in Estonia (e.g., the wealthiest 10% hold 66.8% of the total wealth), and reference is made to international studies (OECD, IMF) that link inequality to a slowdown in economic growth. Emphasis is placed on Estonia's position among the top three in Europe regarding VAT (Value Added Tax).
3 Speeches Analyzed
Rhetorical Style
The rhetorical style is combative, critical, and forceful, describing current policy as a "dead end." The appeals combine strong moral arguments (e.g., "there is no moral reason whatsoever") with logical, data-driven claims. Simplified language is used to explain the unfairness of the tax system to the average Estonian family.
3 Speeches Analyzed
Activity Patterns
The course of action involves active participation in parliamentary debates during the third reading of a significant bill. The speaker promises to continue explaining the topic to the public and from the Riigikogu podium, as well as "everywhere else possible," over the next two years.
3 Speeches Analyzed
Opposition Stance
The main opponents are the economically right-wing parties: the Reform Party (Reformierakond), the Isamaa Party (Isamaa Erakond), and Eesti 200. The criticism is policy-based, focusing on their construction and continuation of the regressive tax system they have maintained for 30 years. The opposition is intense and uncompromising, demanding a fundamental change in economic logic.
3 Speeches Analyzed
Collaboration Style
There is no information regarding cooperation, and the ideological opposition of the social democrats to the policies of right-wing parties is emphasized. The speaker positions himself and his party as the only force capable of implementing the necessary change in direction.
3 Speeches Analyzed
Regional Focus
The focus remains at the national level (the Estonian tax system, the average Estonian family), though the necessity of supporting balanced regional development is also noted. Implementing a progressive income tax is viewed as a mechanism that would specifically benefit rural regions.
3 Speeches Analyzed
Economic Views
The economic outlook is heavily focused on redistribution and the implementation of a progressive income tax system to reduce inequality and support long-term economic growth. There is opposition to a flat tax system, particularly regarding Value Added Tax (VAT), and support for differentiated tax rates (e.g., a 9% VAT rate on food items). It is stressed that the wealthy should contribute their fair share to lessen the tax burden on the average person.
3 Speeches Analyzed
Social Issues
Among social problems, emphasis is placed on the negative impact of economic inequality on lower-income households’ access to quality education and healthcare. A central theme is the ability of the average Estonian family to cope under conditions of a high tax burden. The text also mentions attitudes toward national defense, which depend on whether citizens feel the state is "theirs."
3 Speeches Analyzed
Legislative Focus
The legislative focus is currently centered on opposing Bill 645 SE (the tax package), as it perpetuates unfair economic policies. The long-term and primary legislative priority is the implementation of a fair progressive income tax that would support economic growth and the average family.
3 Speeches Analyzed