Session Profile: Helir-Valdor Seeder
15th Riigikogu, Riigikogu extraordinary session.
2024-07-29
Political Position
The political position is strongly focused on security and national defense, demanding clarity regarding the status of Petserimaa and the issues surrounding the Estonian-Russian border treaty. Domestically, the speaker is firmly opposed to retaining the voting rights of Russian and Belarusian citizens in local elections, viewing this as a security matter that necessitates a constitutional amendment. The speaker is critical of the ideological ambiguity and rapid "rebirth" of the government members (SDE).
8 Speeches Analyzed
Topic Expertise
The speaker demonstrates authority on matters of foreign and security policy, particularly regarding the status of Petserimaa and the preparation of the Estonian-Russian border treaty. Furthermore, he/she possesses strong expertise in the Riigikogu’s (Estonian Parliament's) Rules of Procedure and internal working order, which is utilized when filing procedural protests, emphasizing the violation of law when the right to object is withdrawn.
8 Speeches Analyzed
Rhetorical Style
The rhetorical style is combative, direct, and intense, featuring sharp personal attacks (e.g., questioning the minister's "rapid transformation"). The speaker employs strong language (e.g., "grossly violating") and emphasizes logical arguments concerning security and parliamentary procedures, ultimately demanding a recess due to the violation of procedural rules.
8 Speeches Analyzed
Activity Patterns
The speaker is highly active during the extraordinary session of the Riigikogu, posing substantive questions to the minister and repeatedly interjecting with points of order and protests. He attempts to raise procedural questions precisely when they are topical, rather than retrospectively as rhetorical devices.
8 Speeches Analyzed
Opposition Stance
The speaker is strongly opposed to the Social Democratic Party minister and the coalition at large, criticizing their vague stance on the border treaty and the voting rights of Russian citizens. Criticism is also leveled at the actions of the parliament speaker, who stands accused of a gross violation of the rules of procedure.
8 Speeches Analyzed
Collaboration Style
The collaborative style demonstrates a degree of alignment with opposition colleagues (referencing Jaanus Karilaid’s question and continuing his theme). However, within the Riigikogu chamber, the approach is generally more confrontational, focused on holding the government to account and protecting procedural rules.
8 Speeches Analyzed
Regional Focus
The regional focus is on the status of Petserimaa, treating it as a significant national and historical border issue related to the 1944 occupation.
8 Speeches Analyzed
Economic Views
Insufficient data.
8 Speeches Analyzed
Social Issues
Among social issues, emphasis is placed on the question of voting rights for Russian and Belarusian citizens in local elections, treating it as a direct security concern. The speaker is convinced that revoking these voting rights is necessary, especially in a situation where the Riigikogu has declared the Russian regime terrorist.
8 Speeches Analyzed
Legislative Focus
The legislative focus is on two levels: first, the strict adherence to and protection of the Parliament’s Rules of Procedure and Internal Rules Act, especially regarding the right to object. Second, the need to initiate a constitutional amendment to revoke the voting rights of Russian and Belarusian citizens.
8 Speeches Analyzed