Agenda Profile: Pipi-Liis Siemann

First Reading of the Draft Act Amending the Government of the Republic Act (276 SE)

2024-03-12

15th Riigikogu, 3rd plenary sitting

Political Position
The most important topic is national security and the protection of state secrets, which is treated as a priority. Although the broader objective of the draft bill (security vetting) is supported, the view is that creating narrow exceptions is not the solution; instead, a complex and systemic legislative overhaul is required. The position is rather policy- and procedure-centric, emphasizing a comprehensive approach to amending the laws.

9 Speeches Analyzed
Topic Expertise
Demonstrates high proficiency regarding the terminology and legislation pertaining to state secret access rights and security vetting. Technical concepts are clarified, distinguishing between position-based access rights and certificate-based access to classified external information. Consistently relies on information obtained from representatives of the Ministry of the Interior and the Security Police (KAPO).

9 Speeches Analyzed
Rhetorical Style
The style is formal, explanatory, and measured, suitable for the role of the committee rapporteur. It employs logical appeals and constantly references committee discussions and expert opinions to justify the proposal for rejecting the draft bill. Initially, a metaphor ("the hammer and the nail") is used to criticize the narrow approach.

9 Speeches Analyzed
Activity Patterns
The primary pattern of activity is work within the Constitutional Committee, where he/she served as the rapporteur for draft bill 276 SE. This refers to a specific committee session held on November 7, 2023, and interaction with representatives from the Ministry of the Interior and the Security Police.

9 Speeches Analyzed
Opposition Stance
Opposition is aimed at the specific draft bill (276 SE) because of its narrow and non-systemic approach, rather than at the objective of increasing security itself. The criticism targets the proposal to create a single exception, arguing that it fails to enhance safety to the required degree. The criticism is procedural and policy-based, highlighting the necessity of dealing with the issue comprehensively.

9 Speeches Analyzed
Collaboration Style
The work approach is cooperation-oriented, relying on thorough discussion within the commission and the involvement of experts (KAPO, ministries). It is noted that the commission made procedural decisions consensually (the appointment of the rapporteur) and almost consensually (the proposal for rejection, with two dissenting votes). The position of the Government of the Republic is also acknowledged, which supports the broader objective but not the specific draft bill.

9 Speeches Analyzed
Regional Focus
Not enough data

9 Speeches Analyzed
Economic Views
There are no economic considerations, apart from a brief note that continuous, ongoing monitoring would certainly entail costs.

9 Speeches Analyzed
Social Issues
Focuses on issues of national security and the prevention of crimes against the state, emphasizing the need to protect state secrets and ensure the trustworthiness of government members. Mention is made of cases, publicized through the media, where individuals have turned against their own country.

9 Speeches Analyzed
Legislative Focus
The primary legislative focus is on the draft bill (276 SE) amending the Government of the Republic Act, which the committee proposes to reject. Simultaneously, the need to comprehensively address all legislation governing post-specific access rights is emphasized, referencing the Ministry of the Interior's plan to launch a wider analysis.

9 Speeches Analyzed