Agenda Profile: Evelin Poolamets
Interpellation regarding the suffrage of Russian citizens in Estonian local government elections during Russia's war against Ukraine (No. 624)
2024-05-13
15th Estonian Parliament, 3rd session, plenary session
Political Position
The political position centers on the issue of suffrage and the interpretation of democratic principles. The speaker challenges the position held by the minister (Social Democrats) that stripping Russian citizens of their right to vote in local elections diminishes democracy. This position is value-driven, employing a sharp comparison to the voting rights afforded to individuals serving prison sentences for criminal convictions, in order to highlight a potential inconsistency.
1 Speeches Analyzed
Topic Expertise
The speaker demonstrates knowledge regarding the legal restrictions on democracy and suffrage, especially concerning citizenship and criminal conviction. This expertise is evident in their ability to pose a complex comparative question touching upon the fundamental principles of restricting rights. Data, statistics, or technical terms are absent.
1 Speeches Analyzed
Rhetorical Style
The rhetorical style is formal and directly confrontational, respectfully addressing the Speaker of the Riigikogu and the Minister. A logical appeal is utilized, posing a pointed question that challenges the Minister's previously emphasized definition of democracy. The aim is to compel the opposing party to explain the consistency of their stated principles.
1 Speeches Analyzed
Activity Patterns
Insufficient information
1 Speeches Analyzed
Opposition Stance
The opposition is directed against the stance of the minister (and the Social Democrats) concerning the preservation of voting rights for Russian citizens for the sake of democracy. The criticism is policy-based and intense, as efforts are made to find a contradiction in the minister's value-based argument by introducing a parallel to the voting rights of criminals.
1 Speeches Analyzed
Collaboration Style
Insufficient information
1 Speeches Analyzed
Regional Focus
The focus is at the national level, addressing the legal principles governing local government elections. The topic is strongly linked to the international context (Russian citizens and the war in Ukraine), but there is no specific regional or local emphasis.
1 Speeches Analyzed
Economic Views
Insufficient information
1 Speeches Analyzed
Social Issues
The social issue of restricting suffrage is examined, comparing citizenship-based restrictions (Russian citizens) with those applied to individuals convicted of criminal offenses. The discussion centers on the balance between civil rights and security/the administration of justice.
1 Speeches Analyzed
Legislative Focus
The legislative focus is on contesting the regulation of suffrage and the law concerning local government elections. The speaker is acting as an interrogator who is attempting to influence the government's political position regarding the restriction of voting rights.
1 Speeches Analyzed