Agenda Profile: Urmas Reinsalu
First reading of the draft resolution of the Riigikogu "Proposal to the Government of the Republic to initiate proceedings in the European Union to invalidate the obligation to prepare sustainability reports" (601 OE)
2025-05-21
Fifteenth Riigikogu, Fifth Session, Plenary Session.
Political Position
The speaker, representing the Isamaa party, is vehemently opposed to the sustainability reporting requirements stemming from European Union law, viewing them as an ideological initiative that jeopardizes entrepreneurial freedom and competitiveness. This political stance is strongly rooted in both values (the idea of freedom) and results (administrative burden), demanding both the postponement of the national obligation and the unconditional removal of the entire bureaucratic pyramid from EU law.
9 Speeches Analyzed
Topic Expertise
The speaker demonstrates thorough knowledge of European Union law (CSRD, Fit for 55, ETS2), Estonian legislation (the Accounting Act), and financial-economic analysis. They use specific terminology (administrative burden, financial-economic analysis, Coreper) and present concrete cost estimates (36 million euros for sustainability reports, 200 million euros for electricity charges).
9 Speeches Analyzed
Rhetorical Style
The address is analytical, critical, and combative, leveling strong accusations against the government (claiming society has been intentionally and systematically misled, lied to, and deceived). The arguments are primarily logical and fact-based, relying on figures and the principles of the rule of law, contrasting the government's actions with both legislation and rationality.
9 Speeches Analyzed
Activity Patterns
The speaker is actively involved in Riigikogu proceedings, referencing recent votes (four months ago), today's briefing session, and a draft bill initiated by the Isamaa party. They are also fully aware of the dynamics surrounding the recent decisions and discussions of both the European Union Affairs Committee (ELAK) and Coreper (the Committee of Permanent Representatives).
9 Speeches Analyzed
Opposition Stance
The main criticism is aimed at the government and the Reform Party, who are accused of pushing an ideological agenda, failing to conduct substantive impact analyses, and stealthily introducing new obligations. The criticism is both procedural (ELAK protocols versus Estonian laws) and political, casting doubt on the existence of the government's political approach.
9 Speeches Analyzed
Collaboration Style
The speaker refers to cooperation with business organizations, which have also requested the postponement of the regulations. He/She is skeptical of the government's claims regarding the positions achieved in the European Union Affairs Committee and emphasizes the urgency and principle of the Isamaa initiative and the need for a clear mandate from the parliament's plenary session.
9 Speeches Analyzed
Regional Focus
The focus is placed on the competitiveness of Estonian entrepreneurship and economy and access to capital, setting this within the broader context of pan-European deindustrialization and regulatory burden. The regional focus covers the Estonian national and European Union levels.
9 Speeches Analyzed
Economic Views
The speaker is a staunch advocate of the market economy, stressing that the primary role of businesses is generating profit and enhancing societal welfare. He is radically opposed to regulatory burdens that restrict entrepreneurial freedom and drive up the cost of living (citing the waste reform, electricity fees, and sustainability reports).
9 Speeches Analyzed
Social Issues
Social issues are addressed within the framework of economic freedom, criticizing the imposition of ideological concepts onto the business sector. Separate mention is made of the opposition to gender quotas for publicly traded companies, which fundamentally contradicts the principle of economic freedom.
9 Speeches Analyzed
Legislative Focus
The main legislative priority is the annulment or postponement of the obligation to compile sustainability reports, for which Isamaa has submitted a draft bill. The speaker is in the role of both initiator and opponent, criticizing legal acts enforced by the government (including amendments to the Accounting Act, the waste reform draft bill, and energy charges).
9 Speeches Analyzed