Agenda Profile: Riina Sikkut
First reading of the Draft Act on the Amendment of the Act on Simplified Taxation of Business Income and the Income Tax Act, and the Act on the Repeal of the Security Tax Act and the Amendment of the Income Tax Act (Bill 734 SE)
2025-10-13
15th Riigikogu, 6th Session, Plenary Sitting
Political Position
The politician stands firmly against the government's irresponsible fiscal policy and Bill 734 SE, which cuts taxes using borrowed money. The primary focus is on restoring trust in political institutions and ensuring long-term, responsible public finance management. He sharply criticizes the breaking of promises (the tax truce, the temporary nature of the security tax) and short-sighted actions aimed solely at the next elections. His political position is strongly value- and results-based, emphasizing accountability for the nation's finances.
1 Speeches Analyzed
Topic Expertise
The speaker demonstrates strong expertise in the field of public finance and tax policy, utilizing specific terminology such as "budget neutrality" and "tax kink" (or "tax hump"). He/She references expert recommendations concerning the abolition of the tax kink and highlights the dangers associated with the debt burden, interest expenses, and a potential downgrade of the sovereign rating. His/Her analysis is profound, focusing on double errors and long-term financial implications.
1 Speeches Analyzed
Rhetorical Style
The rhetoric is extremely critical, serious, and cautionary, highlighting the government's irresponsibility and short-sightedness. Strong logical arguments are employed regarding the consequences for public finances (borrowed funds, interest expenses, rating downgrade), along with a moral appeal concerning trust and dignity. The speaker makes direct accusations of populism and irresponsible political practices.
1 Speeches Analyzed
Activity Patterns
The speaker is actively involved in the work of the Riigikogu, handling both legislative drafting and public outreach. For instance, on the day of the speech, they introduced the work of the Riigikogu to schoolchildren. They are up-to-date on the latest sociological research, referencing the results of the trust crisis that were published last week.
1 Speeches Analyzed
Opposition Stance
Strong opposition to the governing coalition, which is being criticized for irresponsible policies, short-sightedness, and breaking promises. The criticism is aimed both at the substance of the policy (tax cuts financed by borrowed money) and at the actions of the politicians (Prime Minister Kristen Michal, the Minister of Finance) and their inability to justify the tax hikes. The politician is extremely critical and shows no willingness to compromise regarding the current policies.
1 Speeches Analyzed
Collaboration Style
Not enough data
1 Speeches Analyzed
Regional Focus
The focus is entirely at the national level, addressing Estonian finance, budget policy, and the impact of the sovereign rating on both businesses and individuals. Specific regional or local topics are not mentioned.
1 Speeches Analyzed
Economic Views
Supports strict budget discipline and implementing tax reforms in a fiscally neutral manner to avoid increasing the debt burden. Opposes tax cuts financed by borrowed funds, arguing that it is irresponsible and mainly benefits those with middle and above-average incomes. Warns of a potential drop in the sovereign credit rating, which would be a costly blow to both businesses and individuals.
1 Speeches Analyzed
Social Issues
Instead of focusing on social issues, the focus is on the need to restore the trust and dignity of political institutions, pointing to a historically deep crisis of legitimacy. It emphasizes that politicians must stand for the welfare of Estonia, rather than pursuing short-term personal gain.
1 Speeches Analyzed
Legislative Focus
The main legislative focus is opposing Bill 734 SE, which concerns lowering taxes using borrowed funds and repealing the security tax. The politician is a strong opponent of the legislation reflecting the government's fiscal policy, deeming it irresponsible.
1 Speeches Analyzed