Agenda Profile: Vladimir Arhipov
Debate on the nationally important issue "Why is food expensive?", initiated by the Estonian Centre Party faction.
2025-10-16
XV Riigikogu, VI Session, Plenary Sitting
Political Position
The political platform heavily focuses on the cost of living, particularly food prices and the low level of subsistence benefits, which forces people to purchase substandard goods. The speaker sharply criticizes the government's actions, arguing that the current tax system has driven the country into a deep hole. They support civil society initiatives and are considering lowering the VAT (Value Added Tax) as a potential solution for exiting the crisis.
3 Speeches Analyzed
Topic Expertise
The presenter demonstrates expertise regarding the specifics of the social sector, precisely citing the amount of the subsistence benefit (200 euros) and emphasizing its insufficiency. The focus also includes tax policy (VAT) and the funding mechanisms for school meals, highlighting the additional responsibilities placed on local governments and parents.
3 Speeches Analyzed
Rhetorical Style
The rhetorical style is critical, sharp, and concerned, utilizing strong emotional appeals, particularly when describing the government's cynicism. Figurative expressions are used (e.g., "in a deep hole"), and provocative questions are posed to challenge the government's ideological foundation ("everyone is the architect of their own fortune").
3 Speeches Analyzed
Activity Patterns
The speaker is actively participating in the Riigikogu debate concerning an issue of significant national importance. Their activity patterns include showing interest in meetings with government members and subsequent pressure campaigns by civil society, indicating potential next actions.
3 Speeches Analyzed
Opposition Stance
The main opponent is the Government of the Republic and its ministers, whose positions are described as cynical and dismissive of the public (e.g., the recommendation to "eat less"). Criticism is aimed both at specific policies (the tax system) and at the government's individualistic ideological foundation.
3 Speeches Analyzed
Collaboration Style
The speaker demonstrates strong support and recognition for the leader of the civil society initiative ("Hats off to you") and the record support they have achieved. The focus of cooperation is directed toward the activities of civil society and the opposition, and there are no references to the government's willingness to compromise.
3 Speeches Analyzed
Regional Focus
The focus is entirely on national issues, such as the Estonian tax system, subsistence benefits, and the state-level funding of school meals. Estonia's record in collecting citizen signatures is also mentioned.
3 Speeches Analyzed
Economic Views
Economic perspectives are critical of the current tax system, which is considered damaging to the state and crisis-inducing. The speaker supports proposals for lowering the Value Added Tax (VAT) and emphasizes the social aspect, protecting the livelihood of low-income individuals.
3 Speeches Analyzed
Social Issues
The main social focus is on poverty and subsistence issues, highlighted by the low level of subsistence benefits and the resulting necessity of purchasing poor-quality food. The educational aspect is also crucial, particularly the insufficient funding for school meals and the overall well-being of children.
3 Speeches Analyzed
Legislative Focus
The legislative focus is currently directed at alleviating the cost of living and implementing tax reform, specifically considering a reduction in Value Added Tax (VAT). The speaker is actively participating in the debate on this matter of national importance, lending support to the civil society initiative.
3 Speeches Analyzed