Agenda Profile: Heljo Pikhof

Draft law amending the Road Traffic Act (616 SE) - first reading

2025-06-05

15th Riigikogu, 5th session, plenary session

Political Position
The political position strongly centers on ensuring public order and safety amid the uncontrolled proliferation of light personal transport devices. The speaker stresses the necessity of state intervention, arguing that local authorities are not sufficiently proactive in regulating speed limits and impaired driving. This stance is strongly supportive of tightening regulations, is value-driven, and emphasizes the protection of vulnerable groups.

1 Speeches Analyzed
Topic Expertise
This expert analysis addresses traffic and public space safety, specifically focusing on the real dangers posed by light mobility devices on sidewalks. The findings are based on observations of social problems and behavioral patterns, highlighting reckless driving under the influence and the resulting risk to children. No data or technical terminology is used; the emphasis is placed entirely on the practical danger.

1 Speeches Analyzed
Rhetorical Style
The rhetorical style is concerned and urgent, highlighting the scale and lack of control regarding the danger posed by light personal mobility devices. An emotional appeal is employed, referencing vulnerable groups such as people with mobility issues, families with strollers, and small children. The presentation adopts a questioning tone, drawing attention to the necessity of national regulation, given that local authorities are not sufficiently proactive.

1 Speeches Analyzed
Activity Patterns
The patterns of activity are restricted solely to participation in the first reading of the Draft Act on the Amendment of the Traffic Act (616 SE) before the Riigikogu. No other frequency or rhythm can be determined.

1 Speeches Analyzed
Opposition Stance
The criticism targets the shortcomings of the current regulations and the passivity of local authorities who are failing to seriously tackle the issues of speeding and drunk driving. Specific political opponents or factions are not named; rather, the inefficiency of the system itself is being criticized.

1 Speeches Analyzed
Collaboration Style
The style of cooperation appears to be open to seeking solutions, raising the question of the balance between national and local level regulation. There are no references to collaboration with specific factions or individuals.

1 Speeches Analyzed
Regional Focus
The regional focus is divided between the national and local levels, stressing that although local municipalities should regulate, the issue is nationwide and requires national intervention. Specific regions or local projects are not mentioned.

1 Speeches Analyzed
Economic Views
Not enough data

1 Speeches Analyzed
Social Issues
Regarding social issues, strong emphasis is placed on public safety and the protection of vulnerable groups from the dangers associated with light personal mobility devices. Specific attention is drawn to people with mobility impairments, families with strollers, and small children, all of whom require safe space on sidewalks. Furthermore, the social problem related to speeding while intoxicated is also addressed.

1 Speeches Analyzed
Legislative Focus
The legislative focus is on amending the Traffic Act (Draft 616 SE), with the aim of more strictly regulating the speed of light personal vehicles and intoxicated driving. The speaker is an active proponent of tightening these regulations at the national level to ensure a uniform safety standard.

1 Speeches Analyzed