Session Profile: Mati Raidma
15th Riigikogu, 4th session, plenary sitting
2024-10-16
Political Position
The speaker's position is strongly value-based, centering on the recognition of the 1944 mass deportation of Crimean Tatars as an act of genocide, specifically to counter Russia's ongoing genocidal policies. They emphasize solidarity with Ukraine and the Crimean Tatars, and firmly assert that Crimea belongs to Ukraine. The speaker opposes any tolerance whatsoever of Russia's actions in Crimea.
1 Speeches Analyzed
Topic Expertise
The speaker demonstrates expertise regarding the history of the Crimean Tatars and the details of their deportation, highlighting specific years (1944, 1986, 2014) and the estimated percentage of victims (46%). They are familiar with international parliamentary activity, referencing Latvia, Lithuania, Poland, and Canada joining Ukraine's appeal. The expertise also covers the consequences of Russia's occupation policy in Crimea.
1 Speeches Analyzed
Rhetorical Style
The style is formal, serious, and urgent, emphasizing tragic history and contemporary injustice. The speaker employs both emotional appeals (harsh fate, the destruction of a people) and a logical call to action (supporting the Riigikogu statement and appealing to the international community). He uses a historical narrative to justify the contemporary political stance.
1 Speeches Analyzed
Activity Patterns
The speaker was an active proponent, initiating a declaration with 54 members of the Riigikogu and representing them before the plenary session. He/She mentioned the video conference held on September 25th with Ukrainian officials, organized at the initiative of the Estonian-Ukrainian Parliamentary Group. This demonstrates direct and coordinated action in the preparation of the legislative bill.
1 Speeches Analyzed
Opposition Stance
The main criticized adversary is Russia (the Russian Empire/Soviet Union), which is accused of continuing a centuries-long policy of genocide. The criticism is rooted in policy and values, addressing persecution, detentions, and the destruction of the Crimean Tatars' identity. The speaker rules out any tolerance toward these actions.
1 Speeches Analyzed
Collaboration Style
The scope of cooperation is broad and international, initiating a joint statement with a large number of colleagues (54 members) and working closely within the framework of the Estonian-Ukrainian parliamentary group. Emphasis is placed on solidarity with the appeal of the Ukrainian Rada and joining parliamentary initiatives of other countries (Latvia, Lithuania, Poland, Canada).
1 Speeches Analyzed
Regional Focus
The focus is strictly international, centering on the Crimean Peninsula—defined as part of Ukraine—and the fate of the Crimean Tatars as an indigenous people. The necessity of international recognition and solidarity is emphasized.
1 Speeches Analyzed
Economic Views
Insufficient data.
1 Speeches Analyzed
Social Issues
The address deals with the fundamental social and human rights issues of the Crimean Tatars, including acts of genocide, persecution, imprisonment, and the destruction of identity. Strong support is given to the indigenous people's right to return to their homeland and live among free nations, utilizing their own language and culture.
1 Speeches Analyzed
Legislative Focus
The legislative focus is on the initiation and adoption of the Riigikogu declaration titled "Recognition of the 1944 Mass Deportation of Crimean Tatars as an Act of Genocide." The speaker is the representative of the initiators, who will introduce the contents of the draft resolution and call for its support. The declaration addresses the recognition of genocide, the condemnation of contemporary policy, and the fact that Crimea belongs to Ukraine.
1 Speeches Analyzed