Session Profile: Vladimir Arhipov

15th Riigikogu, 5th session, plenary sitting

2025-06-11

Political Position
The speaker clearly represents the Centre Party's stance, consistently opposing the government's policies. They strongly oppose raising the tax burden and any attempts to curb workers' rights. The importance of social security and economic guarantees is stressed, as they question the government's priorities regarding the balance between security and the economy.

5 Speeches Analyzed
Topic Expertise
The speaker demonstrates a strong grasp of tax policy, detailing the effects of changes to income tax and VAT. They also show knowledge of labor law and employment relationship regulations. Regarding freedom of religion and constitutional rights, specific laws and principles are cited.

5 Speeches Analyzed
Rhetorical Style
An emotional and populist style of rhetoric that utilizes direct addresses such as "good Estonian people" and rhetorical questions to amplify its impact. It combines fact-based arguments with a personal touch, employing figurative expressions like "Pandora's box" and "witch hunt." The tone is critical and cautionary, emphasizing the concerns of ordinary people.

5 Speeches Analyzed
Activity Patterns
The speaker actively participates in the Riigikogu plenary sessions, delivering both longer, thorough addresses and posing short questions. Five speeches were made on various topics within a two-day period, highlighting regular and versatile involvement in parliamentary activity.

5 Speeches Analyzed
Opposition Stance
The text launches sharp criticism against the government, accusing officials of "hypocrisy" and "bullying." It directly criticizes the government's tax policy and its attempts to restrict religious freedom. The speaker uses strong language, such as claiming the government is "steamrolling over [the opposition/the people]," and warns against opening "Pandora's box," signaling an uncompromising stance of opposition.

5 Speeches Analyzed
Collaboration Style
He calls upon other deputies to think together and support the positions of the Centre Party. He addresses "esteemed colleagues" and makes direct proposals for rejecting the draft legislation. The style of cooperation is more persuasive than commanding, although it is clearly motivated by party politics.

5 Speeches Analyzed
Regional Focus
Limited data. Kuremäe Convent is mentioned as a specific example, but generally the focus is on national issues. Regional interests are not clearly highlighted in the speeches.

5 Speeches Analyzed
Economic Views
Fiercely opposed to increasing the tax burden, advocating instead for tax cuts during an economic crisis. It supports the interests of businesses and workers, criticizing policies that diminish purchasing power and jeopardize job stability. The text stresses the necessity of social and economic certainty as an integral part of overall security.

5 Speeches Analyzed
Social Issues
Consistently defends religious freedom and the rights of religious minorities, particularly concerning the Estonian Christian Orthodox Church. It warns against religious segregation and stresses constitutional rights. Furthermore, it protects workers' social guarantees and their right to stable employment.

5 Speeches Analyzed
Legislative Focus
It focuses primarily on opposition activities, proposing the rejection of draft legislation. It addresses amendments to tax laws, changes to the Employment Contracts Act, and issues concerning religious freedom. The emphasis is placed on blocking government initiatives and offering alternatives.

5 Speeches Analyzed