Agenda Profile: Heljo Pikhof
First reading of the draft resolution of the Riigikogu, "Proposal to the Republic of Estonia's Government to carry out an analysis of the impact of young people’s social media use" (550 OE)
2025-02-10
15th Riigikogu, 5th sitting, plenary session
Political Position
The central theme is the analysis of the impact of young people's social media use (Bill 550) and its potential regulation. Lauri Laats strongly supports conducting the analysis, emphasizing that the goal is to map the situation, not to immediately impose restrictions, which is a policy-driven approach. Liina Kersna and Margit Sutrop stress that banning and dictating are not effective, supporting instead the improvement of awareness and the changing of attitudes. Heljo Pikhof foresees the need for a nationwide restriction that schools could rely on.
5 Speeches Analyzed
Topic Expertise
Politicians demonstrated knowledge of international regulations and cited specific studies (OECD 2024, WHO 2023, Human Development Report 2023). Lauri Laats presented detailed statistical data from a private sector study concerning the times young people use smart devices at home. Tõnis Lukas emphasized the need for a comprehensive analysis, as current research is fragmented.
5 Speeches Analyzed
Rhetorical Style
The tone is serious and concerned, focusing on children's mental and physical health and the need for balance in the digital age. Many logical appeals and references to scientific research and foreign regulations (e.g., Sweden, the Netherlands) are used. The style is formal and procedural, reflecting the course of the committee's discussion and decisions.
5 Speeches Analyzed
Activity Patterns
The focus of activity centers on legislative work, particularly the participation in the Cultural Committee meeting (January 21) and the subsequent presentation of its findings to the Riigikogu (Estonian Parliament). Lauri Laats initiated and introduced the draft bill, while Heljo Pikhof was appointed as the representative for the lead committee.
5 Speeches Analyzed
Opposition Stance
Direct criticism is aimed at ineffective methods, such as outright prohibition and strict ordering, which Liina Kersna and Margit Sutrop deem inefficient. Lauri Laats had to defend the draft bill, clarifying that it is not restrictive but analytical, thereby addressing the concerns raised in the explanatory memorandum.
5 Speeches Analyzed
Collaboration Style
In the committee, a consensus was reached regarding placing the draft bill on the plenary agenda and appointing a representative for the lead committee. Members with varying viewpoints participated in the discussion, but there was agreement on procedural matters. Liina Kersna supported the ministry’s direction to prepare recommendations for schools on regulating smart solutions.
5 Speeches Analyzed
Regional Focus
The focus is strongly national (concerning Estonian youth social media use) and international, widely referencing the regulations and studies of European and global nations (e.g., Finland, Sweden, USA). There is no emphasis on specific local regions within Estonia.
5 Speeches Analyzed
Economic Views
Not enough data
5 Speeches Analyzed
Social Issues
The primary social issue revolves around the mental and physical health of young people, which is jeopardized by the overuse of smart devices, cyberbullying, and social isolation. Emphasis is placed on the necessity of improving parental awareness and strengthening the teaching of digital literacy in schools. Liina Kersna stressed that social media also has positive effects that should not be overlooked.
5 Speeches Analyzed
Legislative Focus
The legislative priority is the passing of Riigikogu Draft Resolution 550, which would require the government to conduct a comprehensive analysis of the impact of social media use among young people. The objective is to establish a national framework that schools can use as a basis for regulating the use of smart devices. Liina Kersna referenced the proposal to create an action plan aimed at mitigating this impact.
5 Speeches Analyzed