Agenda Profile: Evelin Poolamets
Draft law amending the Constitution of the Republic of Estonia (536 SE) – second reading
2025-02-25
15th Riigikogu, 5th session, plenary session
Political Position
The political position vigorously opposes the constitutional amendment bill (536 SE), which concerns granting voting rights to non-citizens in local elections. This stance is value-based, emphasizing that the right to vote must belong exclusively to Estonian citizens, as this is paramount for national identity, security, and state sovereignty. Citizenship is viewed as a conscious choice and an affirmation of loyalty to the Estonian state.
2 Speeches Analyzed
Topic Expertise
The speaker demonstrates expertise in constitutional law and national security matters, specifically by inquiring about the draft legislation's conformity with the style and form required by the constitution. The legal and political significance of citizenship and loyalty is highlighted, with reference also made to the practices of other European countries regarding the restriction of suffrage.
2 Speeches Analyzed
Rhetorical Style
The rhetorical style is formal, patriotic, and forceful, addressing both members of the Riigikogu and "dear compatriots." The argumentation is balanced, utilizing both logical reasoning (responsibility, sovereignty) and emotional appeals in defense of national identity and security. The speech concludes with the patriotic exclamation, "Long live Estonia!"
2 Speeches Analyzed
Activity Patterns
The records show focused participation in the Riigikogu session on February 25th, including both a question posed to the rapporteur and a detailed speech during the second reading of the bill. This pattern of activity suggests active involvement in significant legislative debates.
2 Speeches Analyzed
Opposition Stance
The opposition is directed against the initiators of the constitutional amendment, who are criticized for sacrificing the core of the nation’s sovereignty. It is also warned that non-citizens may be influenced by the propaganda of hostile forces, given that their loyalty often lies with another state. The opposition is principled and rules out any compromise regarding the exclusive rights of citizens.
2 Speeches Analyzed
Collaboration Style
There is no direct data regarding cooperation, but the speaker issues a strong appeal to the members of the Riigikogu to join his position on defending the exclusive rights of Estonian citizens. There are no references to bilateral or cross-party cooperation.
2 Speeches Analyzed
Regional Focus
The focus is on the national level (the well-being of the Estonian state, national self-determination) and the shaping of local government policy. It is stressed that citizens of foreign countries should not be deciding the policy of Estonian local governments.
2 Speeches Analyzed
Economic Views
There is not enough data.
2 Speeches Analyzed
Social Issues
The primary social issue revolves around citizenship, loyalty, and national identity, all of which are linked to the right to vote (suffrage). It is stressed that citizenship is not a barrier but a choice, demanding an affirmation of allegiance and a commitment to the Estonian people and culture, a position that stands in opposition to political correctness.
2 Speeches Analyzed
Legislative Focus
The legislative focus is currently centered on the opposition to the draft bill (536 SE) for amending the Constitution Act during its second reading. The speaker is a staunch opponent of the bill and is raising procedural questions concerning both its form and content, labeling it a "very strange amendment."
2 Speeches Analyzed