Agenda Profile: Evelin Poolamets
First Reading of the Draft Resolution of the Riigikogu "On the Development of Measures for Increasing the Birth Rate" (208 OE)
2024-09-16
The 15th Riigikogu, 4th session, plenary sitting.
Political Position
The central political stance is the resolution of the demographic crisis and the boosting of the birth rate, which is considered a prerequisite for the survival of the Estonian nation, language, and culture. This position is strongly value-driven and critical of the current government's family policy, accusing it of being anti-family. Emphasis is placed on the necessity of long-term and committed political decisions to halt population decline and the negative natural growth rate.
8 Speeches Analyzed
Topic Expertise
The speaker demonstrates a profound understanding of demographic data, referencing forecasts by Statistics Estonia, the fertility rate (1.31), and the decline in the number of births. Technical terms such as "total fertility rate" are utilized, and the impact of migration on the population's age and ethnic composition is analyzed. A detailed overview is presented regarding the distribution of births between Harju County and other regions, as well as the gap between the desired and actual number of children.
8 Speeches Analyzed
Rhetorical Style
The style is urgent and alarming, using strong expressions such as "historical low point" and referring to the danger of being "doomed to extinction." Both logical arguments (relying on statistics) and emotional appeals are utilized, sharply criticizing the government's cynical attitude toward motherhood. The tone is formal, but in answers to questions, it becomes sharply polemical.
8 Speeches Analyzed
Activity Patterns
Not enough data
8 Speeches Analyzed
Opposition Stance
The main opponent is Kaja Kallas’s government, which is accused of being anti-family due to the slashing of family benefits, the elimination of income tax incentives, and the restriction of parental benefits. Criticism is also aimed at the attitudes of specific ministers (Signe Riisalo) and politicians (Siim Kallas), who disparage women raising children at home. The opposition is intense, and the government’s policies are considered detrimental to the country.
8 Speeches Analyzed
Collaboration Style
Not enough data
8 Speeches Analyzed
Regional Focus
Significant attention is being paid to regional inequality and the depopulation of rural areas, as this lowers the national birth rate, which is notably higher in the countryside. It is noted that the population is concentrating in Harju and Tartu counties, while rapid population decline is projected in other counties. Regional inequality is presented as a factor inhibiting the birth rate.
8 Speeches Analyzed
Economic Views
Support is provided for the economic advancement of families through tax policy, including the restoration of family benefits and the reduction of income tax based on the number of children. Furthermore, assistance aimed at young families is advocated, such as incentivizing student loan repayment based on the number of children born. These measures are aimed at achieving demographic goals.
8 Speeches Analyzed
Social Issues
The speaker focuses on family values and the appreciation of motherhood, criticizing the societal attitude that disparages raising children at home. Concern is expressed regarding the impact of immigration on Estonia's ethnic and cultural composition, as immigration has once again begun to reduce the proportion of Estonians. Additionally, criticism is leveled against the "climate hysteria" prevalent among young people, which prevents them from having children.
8 Speeches Analyzed
Legislative Focus
The primary legislative priority is supporting and pushing through the draft bill submitted by EKRE, "On the Development of Measures for Increasing the Birth Rate" (208 OE). The bill aims to compel the Riigikogu to address the demographic crisis, viewing the vote on it as a litmus test regarding the importance of the survival of the Estonian nation.
8 Speeches Analyzed