Agenda Profile: Heljo Pikhof

Interpellation concerning the transfer of Swedish criminals to Estonia (No. 803)

2025-10-06

The 15th Riigikogu, 6th Session, Plenary Sitting

Political Position
The political position is adamantly opposed to the government’s ‘business plan’ regarding the transfer of Swedish criminals to Estonia, viewing it as a direct threat to internal security. This stance is robust and focuses on the negative consequences of the government’s decisions for police operational capacity and the general public’s sense of safety. The speaker frames the issue as a matter of core values, stressing that Estonia is not a prison—it is a home.

4 Speeches Analyzed
Topic Expertise
The speaker demonstrates expertise in internal security, pointing out the number of vacant positions in the PPA (nearly 200) and the issue of labor competition among agencies (PPA, prison service, MTA). The text stresses the necessity of consulting with the Ministry of the Interior, the PPA, and the Estonian Internal Security Service, and refers to the critical evaluations made by their leaders concerning the strain on the system.

4 Speeches Analyzed
Rhetorical Style
The rhetorical style is sharp, critical, and emotional, accusing the government of "lying" and "deliberate manipulation" regarding security issues. Strong value-based appeals and rhetorical questions are employed to highlight negative consequences, such as Tartu becoming a "prison city." The tone is urgent and demands transparent information.

4 Speeches Analyzed
Activity Patterns
The pattern of activity is linked to the submission of a formal inquiry in the Riigikogu, which demonstrates active participation in parliamentary oversight. The speaker first presents six detailed questions and subsequently provides critical feedback on the minister's responses, maintaining a consistent focus on internal security capabilities.

4 Speeches Analyzed
Opposition Stance
The primary conflict is with the government and the Minister of the Interior, who stands accused of replacing internal security with a business contract. The criticism is intense, labeling the government's actions as "lying" and "commodifying security." The opposition is rooted in policy and values, calling the government's priorities into question.

4 Speeches Analyzed
Collaboration Style
The query was filed in collaboration with seven Social Democrats, suggesting internal cooperation within the faction. There is no indication of a willingness to compromise or engage in cross-party cooperation on the issue at hand; instead, the focus is on highlighting disagreement with the government's policy.

4 Speeches Analyzed
Regional Focus
A strong regional focus is placed on Southern Estonia, especially Tartu, Põlva, and Valga, where there are fears of deteriorating security due to a shortage of police officers. Concern is being emphasized regarding Tartu’s reputation as a university city, which could turn into a prison town because of Swedish organized crime clans.

4 Speeches Analyzed
Economic Views
Economic views are skeptical regarding the prison rental scheme as a business project, questioning what real benefit the Estonian state gains from it beyond the payments. The commodification of security is criticized, and the scheme is labeled a favorable export service addressing Sweden's problems, rather than a genuine step toward development.

4 Speeches Analyzed
Social Issues
The social sector highlights the strain on both internal security and the healthcare system. Specific concern is raised regarding the shortage of mental health services, with fears that bringing in prisoners from Sweden who require complex treatment will come at the expense of Estonian children's mental health. The overall focus is on guaranteeing the well-being and security of citizens.

4 Speeches Analyzed
Legislative Focus
The legislative focus centers on challenging and exercising oversight over government decisions, specifically utilizing the interpellation mechanism (pursuant to Section 139 of the Riigikogu Rules of Procedure and Internal Rules Act). The objective is to obtain transparent information regarding the impact of the international agreement initiated by the government and to prevent its implementation.

4 Speeches Analyzed