Agenda Profile: Juku-Kalle Raid
First Reading of the Draft Resolution of the Riigikogu (104 OE), titled "Making a Proposal to the Government of the Republic to Remove the So-Called Bronze Soldier Statue from Public Space"
2024-01-16
15th Riigikogu, 3rd session, plenary sitting
Political Position
The political stance is strongly value-driven and centers on removing Soviet red symbolism from public spaces, stressing that the object in question is not a grave marker. While supporting the swift relocation of the monument, the speaker criticizes the draft bill for being too simplistic, as it lacks a clear plan for the monument's future fate. The consistent solution offered is moving the monument to a museum, where it can serve as a reminder of the horrific past and provide educational opportunities. In closing, the speaker expresses support for EKRE's position on resolving this matter.
4 Speeches Analyzed
Topic Expertise
The speaker demonstrates comprehensive knowledge regarding the monument's history, its original purpose (1947), and related past events, such as the relocation of the Narva tank. Historical facts and personal anecdotes (Aili Jõgi's actions in 1946, a personal incident in 1986) are employed to bolster their viewpoint. Specific locations, namely the Maarjamäe Museum and the park of monuments, are cited as the preferred solution, illustrating an awareness of the established practice for exhibiting Soviet heritage.
4 Speeches Analyzed
Rhetorical Style
The speaker's rhetorical style is passionate and persuasive, employing strong emotional terms like "graven image" and "ridiculous." Logical arguments (the monument's nature as Soviet symbolism) are supported by personal stories and historical examples, creating a vivid and memorable presentation. The tone is at times confrontational, especially when criticizing the positions of the social democrats, but simultaneously acknowledges the general consensus within the Riigikogu regarding the necessity of relocation.
4 Speeches Analyzed
Activity Patterns
No data available
4 Speeches Analyzed
Opposition Stance
The speaker sharply criticizes the Social Democrats (SocDems) for their claim that the "red monument" could represent societal cohesion, deeming this assertion absolutely arbitrary and ridiculous. Criticism is also leveled at the uniformity and unthought-out nature of the proposal put forward by Jaak Valge. Furthermore, "strong disagreements" within the coalition regarding the topic under discussion are noted.
4 Speeches Analyzed
Collaboration Style
The speaker observes a broad consensus regarding the necessity of relocating the monument, noting that "the entire Riigikogu is actually of one mind." While acknowledging the need to fully consider the implications, they refuse to align with the Social Democrats' position on the issue of societal cohesion. Finally, support is expressed for EKRE's stance on this particular question.
4 Speeches Analyzed
Regional Focus
The focus lies on national memory politics and the fate of specific monuments, namely the Bronze Soldier in Tallinn and the Narva Tank. Keila city is also brought up in connection with the residence of a historical figure, Aili Jõgi, after her return from Siberia, thereby introducing a local context as an example of historical resistance.
4 Speeches Analyzed
Economic Views
No data available.
4 Speeches Analyzed
Social Issues
The core social issue revolves around historical memory and societal cohesion, stressing that the removal of Soviet symbolism is essential for safeguarding Estonia’s independence and values. There is support for the idea that history and its horrors should be preserved for educational purposes within a museum environment, rather than remaining in the public sphere as objects of homage or tribute.
4 Speeches Analyzed
Legislative Focus
The focus is on the Riigikogu (Parliament) draft resolution (104 OE) regarding the removal of the so-called Bronze Soldier. The speaker strongly supports the initiative but criticizes flaws in the legislative process, demanding that lawmakers fully consider the consequences of the relocation and the monument's future placement.
4 Speeches Analyzed