Session Profile: Valdo Randpere
15th Riigikogu, 3rd session, plenary session
2024-02-21
Political Position
The main political position is strong support for terminating the legal assistance agreement concluded with the Russian Federation, citing the unreliability and aggressive conduct of the Russian legal system. This stance is value-driven, emphasizing that abandoning the treaty is necessary due to Russia’s full-scale war in Ukraine and the declaration of Estonian state officials as wanted persons. Speakers stress that Russia does not adhere to its agreements, and therefore, security considerations outweigh the potential minor difficulties for Estonian citizens.
2 Speeches Analyzed
Topic Expertise
The presenters demonstrate expertise in international legal assistance and security policy, citing the debate at the Munich Security Conference and the book "Not One Inch." Their expertise is further supported by a reference to the practical experience of former prosecutor Lavly Perling regarding Russia's selective legal cooperation in money laundering cases. They also address the legal consequences and procedural aspects of treaty denunciation.
2 Speeches Analyzed
Rhetorical Style
The style is predominantly formal and analytical, particularly when presenting the commission's work, but it also includes personal recollections and light humor ("I enjoy this honor and glory"). The argumentation is strongly logical, focusing on Russia's unreliability in adhering to international treaties. A second speaker introduces a moral and urgent appeal, deeming the preoccupation with treaties inappropriate and absurd given the context of the war.
2 Speeches Analyzed
Activity Patterns
Randpere was actively involved in the work of the Constitutional Committee, participating in the session where draft legislation was discussed with Minister of Justice Kalle Laanet, and subsequently being appointed as the representative of the lead committee by a consensus decision. He keeps track of international events, referencing the recent Munich Security Conference. The speakers are active during the Riigikogu plenary session, giving presentations and supporting speeches.
2 Speeches Analyzed
Opposition Stance
The criticism is aimed at Riigikogu members (e.g., Varro Vooglaid and Eduard Odinets) who raised questions regarding the consequences of the agreement or potential alternatives (such as freezing it). Russia is heavily criticized as an unreliable contracting partner whose legal system is politically motivated and cannot be trusted. Furthermore, the Centre Party is being reproached for its previous unsuccessful attempt to "freeze" the agreement with United Russia.
2 Speeches Analyzed
Collaboration Style
Randpere emphasizes the consensus decisions reached in the Constitutional Committee during the processing of the draft bill, including taking the bill onto the agenda and completing the first reading. This indicates procedural cooperation with the other committee members. A second speaker confirms the Reform Party’s strong support for the draft bill presented by the Minister of Justice, demonstrating strong intra-factional cooperation.
2 Speeches Analyzed
Regional Focus
The focus is strongly international, concentrating on relations between Estonia and Russia, as well as Russia's aggression in Ukraine. The common security policy stance of Western nations, which was discussed at the Munich Security Conference, is also important. Local or regional Estonian topics are not covered.
2 Speeches Analyzed
Economic Views
Not enough data
2 Speeches Analyzed
Social Issues
Not enough data
2 Speeches Analyzed
Legislative Focus
The main legislative focus is the draft bill concerning the denunciation of the legal assistance treaty between the Republic of Estonia and the Russian Federation. Randpere is the representative of the bill’s leading committee, ensuring its smooth processing in the Riigikogu. The Reform Party initiated the bill and is a strong supporter, emphasizing its swift conclusion.
2 Speeches Analyzed