Session Profile: Evelin Poolamets
The 15th Riigikogu, 4th session, plenary sitting.
2024-09-16
Political Position
The political focus is heavily centered on the demographic crisis and boosting the birth rate, which is viewed as the fundamental basis for the survival of the Estonian nation, language, and culture. This stance is value-based and intensely critical of the government’s family policy, specifically for having cut family benefits. Furthermore, the issue of security regarding the ABIS biometric identification system database was raised. The position holds that the country is at a critical turning point and must act immediately to prevent the population from dying out.
10 Speeches Analyzed
Topic Expertise
The speaker demonstrates expertise in the fields of demography and population studies, making extensive use of data and projections from Statistics Estonia (e.g., the total fertility rate of 1.31 and the population forecast for 2085). Detailed analyses are presented regarding the decrease in the number of births, the impact of migration, and regional inequality. The speaker also possesses expertise in cybersecurity and data protection, citing recent incidents involving data breaches.
10 Speeches Analyzed
Rhetorical Style
The rhetorical style is urgent, anxious, and at times highly confrontational, stressing the danger of population extinction if measures are not taken. It utilizes both detailed statistical arguments and strong emotional appeals, connecting the issue of birth rates to constitutional duty. Criticism aimed at the government is sharp, labeling it "anti-family" and referencing the opponents' cynical remarks regarding motherhood.
10 Speeches Analyzed
Activity Patterns
The speaker was active during the plenary session, presenting both an interpellation to the minister regarding data protection and a report on the draft bill submitted by EKRE concerning the development of methods for increasing the birth rate. This demonstrates active involvement in the legislative process and holding ministers accountable.
10 Speeches Analyzed
Opposition Stance
The main criticism is directed at Kaja Kallas’s government, which is accused of cutting family benefits, eliminating income tax breaks, and pursuing anti-family policies. The criticism is particularly intense towards the Minister of Social Affairs (Signe Riisalo) and other politicians, whose statements regarding motherhood and large families are considered cynical and disparaging. The government's actions are seen as creating uncertainty and discouraging people from having children.
10 Speeches Analyzed
Collaboration Style
The cooperation style centers on intra-party initiatives (such as the bill submitted by EKRE) and citing the views of colleagues (like Riina Solman) who share concerns regarding the demographic crisis. There is no evidence of cross-party cooperation or willingness to compromise, as the primary focus is the sharp criticism of government policy.
10 Speeches Analyzed
Regional Focus
The regional focus is aimed at addressing regional inequality and the depopulation of rural areas, which consequently lowers the overall birth rate, given that the fertility rate among the rural population is significantly higher. Specifically, the population growth in Harju County and Tartu County is highlighted, contrasting sharply with the projected decline of 15–35% in other counties.
10 Speeches Analyzed
Economic Views
Economic policy proponents support fiscal incentives for families, including restoring family benefits to their previous value and reducing income tax based on the number of children. They also favor assistance aimed at young families who are still studying, such as student loan repayment concessions tied to the birth of children. This clearly indicates a desire to utilize state financial resources to stimulate the birth rate.
10 Speeches Analyzed
Social Issues
The social focus is strongly directed toward increasing the birth rate and valuing the traditional family, standing in opposition to the societal attitude that disparages raising children at home. Concern is also expressed over "climate hysteria" propaganda, which portrays having a child as a selfish act. Furthermore, the impact of immigration on the population's ethnic composition and cultural environment is a crucial topic.
10 Speeches Analyzed
Legislative Focus
The primary legislative priority involves initiating and supporting a draft bill aimed at developing methods to increase the birth rate, underscoring its long-term and strategic significance. Furthermore, attention is focused on personal data protection and the prevention of cyberattacks, specifically by inquiring with the minister about the necessary precautions to guarantee the security of the ABIS data repository.
10 Speeches Analyzed