Session Profile: Helir-Valdor Seeder
15th Riigikogu, 5th session, plenary session
2025-02-25
Political Position
The political position is strongly value-based, focusing on national security and the clarity of the constitution. The speaker firmly supports leaving the right to vote only to Estonian citizens, sharply opposing proposals that would perpetuate the voting rights of persons with undetermined citizenship or create complex categories of allies. He/She emphasizes that the amendment is necessary due to the current exceptional security situation and that the constitutional change must be finalized now to prevent the prolongation of social tensions.
7 Speeches Analyzed
Topic Expertise
The speaker demonstrates expertise in constitutional law, security policy, and international relations, emphasizing the requirements for clarity and applicability of constitutional amendments. He refers to reports from security institutions and the views of experts (e.g., Jüri Adams), addressing specific legal problems, such as the status of citizens of unrecognized states (e.g., Palestine, Abkhazia). He also emphasizes the lack of information regarding the number of Russian citizens among individuals with undetermined citizenship.
7 Speeches Analyzed
Rhetorical Style
The speaker's style is forceful and logical, employing strong judgments (e.g., "stupidity," "an outright lie") when criticizing the opposition. He relies on security arguments, international ramifications, and constitutional logic to substantiate his position. Simultaneously, he urges his colleagues to vote according to their personal conscience and better judgment, rather than adhering to party discipline.
7 Speeches Analyzed
Activity Patterns
The speaker is highly active during the plenary session, presenting lengthy and detailed arguments regarding the constitutional amendment. They actively participate in the question and answer period, addressing multiple questions to the rapporteur. Furthermore, they repeatedly request a vote on specific proposed amendments and ask for extended speaking time (8 + 8 minutes).
7 Speeches Analyzed
Opposition Stance
The primary criticism is aimed at the coalition members of parliament and the constitutional amendment draft they submitted, particularly concerning the regulation of voting rights for individuals with undefined citizenship and citizens of third countries. The criticism is sharp, accusing opponents of spreading disinformation regarding security agency reports and using flawed justifications (such as defining an aggressor state based on voting rights). He warns that the coalition's proposal would damage Estonia's reputation among its Western allies.
7 Speeches Analyzed
Collaboration Style
The speaker calls for cross-party cooperation and consensus regarding the amendment of the constitution, stressing that this necessitates an outcome that transcends the coalition. He appeals directly to the personal understanding and conviction of the Riigikogu members. Simultaneously, he acknowledges the amendment proposed by the coalition deputies, which omitted the confusing delegation clause, thereby demonstrating a willingness to recognize constructive steps.
7 Speeches Analyzed
Regional Focus
The focus is on national security and international relations, particularly concerning aggressor states (Russia, North Korea) and allied nations (NATO, Switzerland, Japan). Local government elections are central to the discussion, exemplified by the formation of political power in the Estonian capital and other municipalities.
7 Speeches Analyzed
Economic Views
Insufficient data
7 Speeches Analyzed
Social Issues
The main social issue is integration and citizenship policy, which is addressed in the context of security and national identity. The speaker believes that restricting voting rights motivates individuals with undetermined citizenship to acquire Estonian citizenship, learn the Estonian language, and become conscious citizens. He/She pointed out that integration forecasts have failed because the number of individuals with undetermined citizenship has remained high and many have acquired Russian citizenship.
7 Speeches Analyzed
Legislative Focus
The primary legislative focus centers on amending the Constitution to regulate the right to vote in local council elections. The speaker strongly supports the amendment proposal submitted by 23 Riigikogu members, which would grant suffrage exclusively to Estonian citizens. He/She opposes enshrining the right to vote for individuals with undetermined citizenship in the Constitution and demands the immediate conclusion of the proceedings.
7 Speeches Analyzed