Session Profile: Anti Poolamets
15th Riigikogu, 4th session, plenary session
2024-12-16
Political Position
The political focus is heavily centered on defending free speech and resisting the suppression of criticism. The speaker sharply opposes the labeling of certain speech as "hate speech," viewing it as a tool for silencing opponents. This stance is value-driven, emphasizing the critical importance of the free exchange of ideas, and it also involves intense criticism of the actions of government bodies, specifically the Prosecutor's Office. The Prosecutor General, in particular, is seen as having committed a "severe professional failure" that warrants nothing less than resignation.
2 Speeches Analyzed
Topic Expertise
The speaker demonstrates knowledge of legal and ethical boundaries (the line between criticism and attack) and is well-versed in international discussions regarding social media (TikTok, Facebook) and censorship. Particular emphasis is placed on assessing the work of the prosecutor's office and legislative processes related to freedom of speech. Specific examples are also cited, such as the apology made by Facebook owner Zuckerberg for the distortion of information during the COVID period.
2 Speeches Analyzed
Rhetorical Style
The style is highly confrontational, accusatory, and sharp, utilizing strong emotional appeals and labeling ("your favorite instrument – hate speech"). The speaker poses challenging rhetorical questions to force the opponent to define boundaries, and accuses them of suppressing the free exchange of ideas. Direct and judgmental phrases are used, such as "a serious flaw" (or "major blunder") and "an old trick to suppress opponents."
2 Speeches Analyzed
Activity Patterns
The speeches were delivered during the plenary session of the Riigikogu, but information is unavailable regarding their frequency, rhythm, or other public appearances.
2 Speeches Analyzed
Opposition Stance
The confrontation is directed at those who promote the hate speech law and use the labeling of speech as hate speech to suppress criticism. The criticism is intense and accusatory, ranging from criticizing political instruments (hate speech) to highlighting the personal work failures ("shoddy performance") of a high state official (the Prosecutor General). The opponent is directly accused of "hostility toward freedom of speech" and suppressing the free exchange of ideas.
2 Speeches Analyzed
Collaboration Style
No data available
2 Speeches Analyzed
Regional Focus
The focus is on national legislative issues (such as prosecutorial accountability and the hate speech law) and international debates concerning social media and censorship (TikTok, Zuckerberg). There is no reference to local or regional matters.
2 Speeches Analyzed
Economic Views
No data available
2 Speeches Analyzed
Social Issues
The main social issue is civil liberties, particularly the protection of freedom of speech, the suppression of which is viewed as a serious threat. The speaker references the role of social media in distorting reality and censoring information (citing the COVID example) and strongly opposes the proposed hate speech legislation.
2 Speeches Analyzed
Legislative Focus
The legislative focus is heavily centered on opposing the draft hate speech law, which is being dubbed the free speech suppression act. Furthermore, there is a demand for evaluating and holding accountable the actions of the Prosecutor's Office leadership, referencing the possibility of removing the Prosecutor General.
2 Speeches Analyzed