Agenda Profile: Heljo Pikhof
First Reading of the Draft Resolution (409 OE) of the Riigikogu "Making a Proposal to the Government of the Republic to Implement Effective Measures to Protect Minors from Exposure to Pornography"
2024-06-03
Fifteenth Riigikogu, third session, plenary sitting.
Political Position
The political position is strongly value-based (child protection), but its implementation is strictly policy-driven and legally focused on European Union law. It supports the objective of the draft bill, while emphasizing that cross-border solutions must comply with the EU Digital Services Regulation. The position is cautious regarding the imposition of domestic restrictions that conflict with EU law.
8 Speeches Analyzed
Topic Expertise
Demonstrates a thorough level of knowledge regarding the European Union's Digital Services Act (DSA) and its implementation, referencing specific articles and European Court of Justice rulings. Provides detailed explanations concerning the regulation of cross-border platforms, mechanisms for penalty payments, and the development of age verification measures (EU Wallet). Relies heavily on the views of experts from the Consumer Protection and Technical Regulatory Authority and the Ministry of Social Affairs.
8 Speeches Analyzed
Rhetorical Style
The rhetorical style is highly formal, factual, and informative, typical of a steering committee report. It focuses on the objective conveyance of the committee’s discussion and expert opinions, utilizing logical and legal arguments. The tone is measured and procedural, steering clear of emotional appeals, even when the subject matter is sensitive.
8 Speeches Analyzed
Activity Patterns
The action pattern concerns the management of the work of the Riigikogu Culture Committee and the submission of its results to the Plenary Assembly. The date of the committee sitting (May 28) and the scheduling of the final vote on the draft legislation for June 5 are noted. This activity is directed toward the smooth and consensus-based execution of the legislative process.
8 Speeches Analyzed
Opposition Stance
The criticism is aimed at the imposition of national restrictions on cross-border services, as these restrictions conflict with European Union law following a ruling by the European Court of Justice. It strongly opposes the viewpoint demanding the immediate blocking of websites, stressing that EU-wide solutions must be awaited. This opposition is based strictly on policy and legal grounds.
8 Speeches Analyzed
Collaboration Style
The style of cooperation is consensual and substantive, emphasizing that the commission’s decisions were adopted by consensus. It liaises closely with government agencies and experts (TTJA, Ministry of Social Affairs) to find legal solutions. It expresses a willingness to discuss any topics that the commission members deem necessary.
8 Speeches Analyzed
Regional Focus
The focus is clearly international and pan-European, emphasizing that the problem is cross-border and requires solutions at the European Union level. It is stressed that national restrictions conflict with European Union law. Requirements for regulating American platforms within the EU are also mentioned.
8 Speeches Analyzed
Economic Views
Not enough data
8 Speeches Analyzed
Social Issues
It focuses heavily on protecting children from the harmful effects of pornography, viewing this as a constitutional obligation. It supports prevention services, child help consultations, and age-appropriate sexual education, recognizing the Ministry of Social Affairs' role in harm mitigation. It deems the development of an age verification system to be socially critical.
8 Speeches Analyzed
Legislative Focus
The legislative focus is on processing and adopting draft legislation stemming from European Union directives to ensure alignment with EU law. As a representative of the leading committee, the focus will be on processing draft bill (409 OE) and preparing for the final vote. The adoption of amendments to the Information Society Service Act is also a priority.
8 Speeches Analyzed