Session Profile: Vladimir Arhipov
The 15th Riigikogu, 6th Session, Plenary Sitting
2025-10-06
Political Position
The most prominent issues are the fierce opposition to the car tax, which is directly linked to low public confidence in the government, and the alleviation of social inequality. The politician is calling for the abolition of the car tax and a substantial increase in state funding for school meals, stressing a value-based approach where security and social welfare take precedence. There is also firm opposition to the transfer of foreign criminals to Estonia, citing a threat to the nation's sovereignty and security.
7 Speeches Analyzed
Topic Expertise
The speaker demonstrates expertise regarding tax policy (car tax, income tax) and its social consequences, citing public opinion surveys (30% confidence level). Specific attention is paid to financing social policy, particularly school meal subsidies and the capacity of local municipalities, emphasizing the effect of rising prices. Furthermore, the speaker authoritatively addresses issues concerning the prison system and national security.
7 Speeches Analyzed
Rhetorical Style
The style is predominantly critical and passionate, employing strong emotional appeals, particularly when addressing social issues (children attending physical education class hungry) and the car tax (a red rag to a bull). Rhetorical questions are utilized, and human principles are emphasized, balancing value-based rhetoric with economic arguments (costs, wage increases). The speeches are formal, addressing the esteemed presiding officer and colleagues.
7 Speeches Analyzed
Activity Patterns
All addresses were delivered during a single plenary sitting (2025-10-06), demonstrating active engagement in parliamentary debates. This pattern of activity encompasses both pointed questions directed at ministers and rapporteurs, and the articulation of positions on behalf of the faction (the Centre Party) concerning critical security and social matters.
7 Speeches Analyzed
Opposition Stance
The main criticism is directed at the government and the coalition, particularly regarding their tax policy (the car tax) and social policy (ignoring the poorest segments of society). The criticism is policy-driven and intense, accusing the government of losing the public's trust and exacerbating inequality. Rather than showing a willingness to compromise, critics are demanding the complete repeal of the government's policies (e.g., the car tax).
7 Speeches Analyzed
Collaboration Style
The speaker represents the positions of the Center Party faction, particularly on the issue of foreign prisoners, which indicates strong internal cooperation within the faction. There are no direct references to collaboration with other parties or a willingness to compromise with the government; rather, strongly confrontational demands are being presented.
7 Speeches Analyzed
Regional Focus
Although national issues (tax policy, the prison system) are addressed, regional inequality is highlighted during social policy discussions. It is emphasized that the state must support weaker local governments (e.g., Vändra, Mõisaküla) to ensure the quality of school meals, regardless of the place of residence.
7 Speeches Analyzed
Economic Views
The speaker is strongly opposed to the introduction of new taxes (the motor vehicle tax) and criticizes the increase in income tax, citing its negative impact. There is a demand to raise state social benefits (school meals) to ease the burden on poorer individuals and local municipalities in the face of rising prices. Preference is given to social justice and measures that stimulate the coping ability of the poor, rather than tax cuts.
7 Speeches Analyzed
Social Issues
A strong focus on social justice and reducing inequality, particularly regarding the well-being of children (school meals) and the livelihood of poorer people. The priority of national security and state sovereignty is emphasized, with firm opposition to accepting foreign criminals into Estonian prisons.
7 Speeches Analyzed
Legislative Focus
The primary legislative priorities include rejecting the government's proposed tax legislation (such as the car tax) and increasing social welfare benefits (like the school meal subsidy) to match actual costs. Furthermore, they oppose the decision regarding the transfer of foreign prisoners to Estonia and demand that it be rejected.
7 Speeches Analyzed