Session Profile: Vadim Belobrovtsev
15th Riigikogu, 5th session, plenary meeting
2025-02-13
Political Position
The political position is strongly opposed to the initiative to amend the constitution, which would strip long-term non-citizen residents, including citizens of Russia and Belarus, of their local voting rights. The reasoning is value-based, emphasizing the defense of the rule of law and democratic principles and warning against political and legal nihilism. The speaker believes this process is fundamentally wrong and unjust.
3 Speeches Analyzed
Topic Expertise
The speaker demonstrates expertise in constitutional law and legislative procedure, referencing the postulates of the Venice Commission and the complexity involved in amending the constitution. He/She provides examples of manifestations of legal nihilism (e.g., the amendment of the law concerning the appointment of the Secretary of State) and quotes authoritative constitutional experts, such as Liia Hänni.
3 Speeches Analyzed
Rhetorical Style
The rhetorical style is critical, accusatory, and deeply concerned, characterizing the opponents' actions as "political nihilism" and "quite cynical." Appeals are directed both at logic (the implications of the legislative changes, the Venice Commission) and at the sense of justice, emphasizing that disenfranchisement is unjust toward individuals who have paid taxes for years. A procedural appeal regarding the right to reply is also present.
3 Speeches Analyzed
Activity Patterns
Not enough data.
3 Speeches Analyzed
Opposition Stance
The main targets of criticism are right-wing parties, who are accused of gaining a political double benefit by influencing election results and appealing to voters. Furthermore, the Social Democrats are being criticized for changing their position, which contradicts their earlier stance. The criticism is intense and focuses on procedural violations and the undermining of democratic principles.
3 Speeches Analyzed
Collaboration Style
The speaker notes that the Centre Party opposes the amendment, referring to a shared resistance. He calls on the Social Democrats to heed their authoritative member, Liia Hänni, so that they might change their stance and join the opponents of the amendment. Direct cooperation with other parties is not detailed.
3 Speeches Analyzed
Regional Focus
The focus is on the national level (the Constitution of Estonia and electoral laws) and the international level (the postulates of the Venice Commission). Specific local or regional issues are not addressed.
3 Speeches Analyzed
Economic Views
Not enough data.
3 Speeches Analyzed
Social Issues
The speaker strongly defends the political rights of long-term Estonian residents (non-citizens and citizens of certain foreign countries) in local elections. It is emphasized that these individuals are loyal, were born here, have paid taxes, and have raised children. Furthermore, depriving them of the right to vote constitutes discrimination based solely on having the wrong passport or citizenship.
3 Speeches Analyzed
Legislative Focus
The legislative focus centers on active opposition to the constitutional amendment process and the related changes to the Local Government Council Election Act. The speaker sides with the opponents, proposing that the draft bill be rejected during the first reading.
3 Speeches Analyzed