Agenda Profile: Urmas Reinsalu
First reading of the Bill on the Amendment of the European Parliament Election Act (lowering the voting and candidacy age) (414 SE)
2024-05-30
15th Riigikogu, 3rd session, plenary session
Political Position
Strong opposition to the draft bill (414 SE) lowering the voting age for European Parliament elections, emphasizing procedural unfairness and the hypocrisy inherent in the initiative. The position is firmly grounded in both procedure and values, accusing the coalition of engaging in a manipulative political information operation immediately prior to the elections. Also considered critical are the issues concerning the voting rights of citizens of the aggressor state and the sizes of electoral districts, matters which the government is currently neglecting.
3 Speeches Analyzed
Topic Expertise
Demonstrates knowledge of public law and constitutional interpretation, challenging the legal basis of the draft bill (specifically, whether the voting age can be amended by a simple statute). Uses historical and literary examples (Bornhöhe, Gaidar, Charles XII) when discussing the age requirement for passive suffrage, aiming to demonstrate the inconsistency of the coalition's arguments. Also refers to the current Child Protection Act and its definitions.
3 Speeches Analyzed
Rhetorical Style
The tone is sharp, critical, and combative, using strong, negative metaphors such as "hypocrisy," "populist substitute activity," "pea candies," and "blank cartridges." It appeals to logic by highlighting contradictions in the coalition's other youth-related bills (compulsory education, tanning bed bans) to demonstrate the inconsistency of their policy.
3 Speeches Analyzed
Activity Patterns
He/She speaks in the Riigikogu chamber during the first reading of the bill, taking additional time for the address, which points to active involvement in significant legislative debates. The speeches are focused and substantive, concentrating on refuting the opposition's arguments and highlighting procedural deficiencies.
3 Speeches Analyzed
Opposition Stance
The main criticism is aimed at the governing coalition, accusing them of a lack of consensus, political manipulation, and gaming the electoral rules. The coalition is also criticized for implementing a "nanny-state" culture regarding young people, which contradicts their supposed trust in the decision-making capacity of youth. Furthermore, there is criticism of politicians' failure to prevent strikes and uphold their promises.
3 Speeches Analyzed
Collaboration Style
It emphasizes that cross-parliamentary consensus is necessary when changing election rules, criticizing the coalition for disregarding this practice in the case of the current draft legislation. It shows no willingness to compromise on the bill’s procedural style or its substance, deeming it overly manipulative.
3 Speeches Analyzed
Regional Focus
It focuses on the national and international legal framework (European Parliament elections). It mentions constitutional issues, such as the size of electoral districts and the voting rights of citizens of an aggressor state in Estonia, but lacks a specific local or regional focus.
3 Speeches Analyzed
Economic Views
Economic views are manifesting indirectly, highlighting the availability of free education and opposition to the car tax as key issues for young people. This points to concerns regarding the cost of living and the tax burden, which have emerged due to government inaction.
3 Speeches Analyzed
Social Issues
The central theme revolves around the decision-making capacity and mental maturity of young people. This criticizes the coalition's contradictory approach: political maturity is demanded of youth, yet their individual choices (such as tanning beds or tattooing) are simultaneously restricted, and compulsory education is mandated until the age of 18. Furthermore, it raises the acute issue of voting rights for citizens of the aggressor state.
3 Speeches Analyzed
Legislative Focus
The primary focus is on opposing the draft legislation (414 SE) to lower the voting age for the European Parliament, highlighting its legal disputability and procedural flaws. It also names other significant legislative issues that need addressing: the voting rights of citizens of the aggressor state and the unequal sizes of electoral districts.
3 Speeches Analyzed