Agenda Profile: Marko Mihkelson
First reading of the draft statement of the Riigikogu "In Support of the People of Georgia" (564 AE)
2025-01-22
15th Estonian Parliament, 5th session, plenary session.
Political Position
The political stance is strongly value-based and security-focused, supporting the aspirations of the Georgian people towards the European Union and NATO. Emphasis is placed on the need to resist Russian imperialism, which threatens Georgia, Ukraine, Moldova, and Belarus. The speaker strongly supports the adoption of Riigikogu Draft Statement 564 AE, which provides an unambiguous assessment of the systematic falsification of the Georgian parliamentary elections.
10 Speeches Analyzed
Topic Expertise
The speaker demonstrates a profound grasp of foreign policy and parliamentary procedure, particularly in the realm of Georgia and the broader topic of Russia’s sphere of influence. Specific data and references are utilized (for instance, Hans Gutbrod’s analysis concerning systematically falsified elections), alongside personal experiences from meeting election observers in Tbilisi. Furthermore, the speaker is well-versed in the working procedures of the Foreign Affairs Committee and the agenda of international organizations, specifically the Parliamentary Assembly of the Council of Europe.
10 Speeches Analyzed
Rhetorical Style
The rhetorical style is formal and detailed, particularly when describing procedures, but becomes emotionally charged and urgent when addressing the situation in Georgia and Russian imperialism. Historical comparisons are utilized (the 1940 June elections in Estonia, the 1921 Soviet invasion of Georgia), and the critical importance of international support is emphasized. The tone is persuasive and analytical, referencing documented incidents and analyses.
10 Speeches Analyzed
Activity Patterns
The Speaker is active in foreign policy activities, participating in international visits (a meeting with election observers in Tbilisi at the beginning of November) and organizing regular committee meetings on Georgian issues. This pattern of activity involves close communication with international observers, representatives of Georgian civil society, and the Estonian Ambassador to Georgia. He/She is also involved in the preparation of other foreign policy statements (e.g., regarding the Belarusian elections).
10 Speeches Analyzed
Opposition Stance
The opponents are those who either question the necessity of the declaration or justify the Georgian elections (referencing Mr. Grünthal and Poolamets). The criticism is principled and intense, comparing the opponents' viewpoints to those who defended the June 1940 elections, and labeling them "unbelievable" in the current security context. The opposition is also aimed at Georgia's illegitimate government and parliament, as well as the aggressive policy of the Russian Federation.
10 Speeches Analyzed
Collaboration Style
The style of cooperation within the leading committee (the Foreign Affairs Committee) is consensus-based, with procedural decisions and proposed amendments being adopted by full consensus. Reliance is placed on a broad-based initiative (49 members of the Riigikogu) and international cooperation with European partners and Georgian civil society. It is emphasized that the adoption of the statement constitutes an important step in providing support from the international community.
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Regional Focus
The focus is clearly international, centering on the security of the South Caucasus and Eastern Europe, and treating this within the broader context of the onslaught of Russian imperialism. Specifically, the situation in Georgia, Ukraine, Moldova, and Belarus is emphasized, linking these countries by a shared security threat. Regarding Georgia, the 2008 war and the occupation of its territory are highlighted.
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Economic Views
Limited data.
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Social Issues
Among the social issues, strong emphasis is placed on democratic freedoms and the right to fair elections, supporting the peaceful demonstrations of the Georgian people. It is noted that the Georgian people oppose coming under Russian influence and desire European Union membership. Furthermore, the use of violence and intimidation on election day in Georgia is highlighted.
10 Speeches Analyzed
Legislative Focus
The legislative focus is on the adoption of Riigikogu statements concerning foreign policy crises, with the body acting as both a proponent and the procedural leader. The priority is the adoption of Statement 564 AE to express support for Georgia's democratic forces and demand the organization of new elections to resolve the constitutional crisis. Preparations for a statement concerning the Belarusian elections are also noted.
10 Speeches Analyzed