Session Profile: Valdo Randpere
15th Riigikogu, 3rd sitting, information briefing
2024-01-24
Political Position
The political stance heavily emphasizes national sovereignty and security, backing the government's authority to either extend or cancel residence permits without needing extensive justification. He highlights the close relationship between the Russian Orthodox Church and Kremlin leadership, arguing that this proximity justifies security-driven decisions. Additionally, he brings up the relationship dynamics between the City of Tallinn and the central government regarding the church's right of superficies, indicating a wish to tackle this issue more radically.
1 Speeches Analyzed
Topic Expertise
The speaker demonstrates knowledge of international practice regarding the granting and revocation of residence permits, referencing the experiences of other countries. He/She is familiar with the historical discussion in the Republic of Estonia concerning the suitability of the church located opposite the Riigikogu (Parliament), and relies on security analysis regarding the positions held by the Russian Orthodox Church.
1 Speeches Analyzed
Rhetorical Style
The rhetorical style is analytical and confident, beginning with an expression of personal surprise directed at the questioner, yet maintaining a respectful tone. He/She employs both logical arguments (state sovereignty) and an emotional and historical reference (the church as a "thorn in the side"). The speaker expresses a desire to be even "a bit more radical" in addressing the subject matter.
1 Speeches Analyzed
Activity Patterns
The information is limited to asking one question during the information session. [He/She] mentions his/her daily movement leaving the Riigikogu (Parliament), which provides a constant visual reminder of the problem being addressed.
1 Speeches Analyzed
Opposition Stance
Direct criticism is aimed at the premise of Varro Vooglaid's question, implying that Vooglaid should be aware of the principles of state sovereignty. Furthermore, he calls into question the actions of the City of Tallinn (specifically, the right of superficies and the lease agreement) concerning the Russian Orthodox Church, demanding government intervention.
1 Speeches Analyzed
Collaboration Style
He expresses respect for his colleague (Varro Vooglaid), noting that he has "learned to hold him in very high regard," even while criticizing the content of his question. He seeks to initiate a discussion or cooperation between the government and the City of Tallinn concerning the issue of the church property.
1 Speeches Analyzed
Regional Focus
The primary focus is on national sovereignty and international security matters (specifically, the positions held by the Russian Orthodox Church). Simultaneously, a specific local issue concerning the city of Tallinn is being raised—the location and building rights of the Russian church directly across from the Riigikogu (Estonian Parliament).
1 Speeches Analyzed
Economic Views
Not enough data
1 Speeches Analyzed
Social Issues
This addresses a social issue in the context of residence permits and immigration, linking it to security and the political influence of a religious institution (the Russian Orthodox Church). It prioritizes security considerations, supporting the state’s right to restrict the presence of foreign visitors, especially if they are associated with hostile foreign powers.
1 Speeches Analyzed
Legislative Focus
It focuses on supporting the government's activities and decisions (the revocation of the residence permit) and calls for a discussion between the government and the City of Tallinn regarding development rights and the lease agreement. Direct legislative priorities are absent; the emphasis is on the activities of the executive branch and political discussion.
1 Speeches Analyzed