Agenda Profile: Riina Sikkut
Draft law amending the simplified taxation act for entrepreneurs and the income tax act, and repealing the security tax act – second reading
2025-06-11
15th Riigikogu, 5th session, plenary sitting
Political Position
The political stance is strongly opposed to the government’s tax package (645 SE), as it raises taxes, exacerbates inequality, and undermines the financial stability of low-wage earners. The primary focus points are the diminishing fairness within the tax system and the low level of credibility among politicians due to the decision to make the security tax permanent. This position is strongly value-driven, emphasizing economic well-being and social justice.
2 Speeches Analyzed
Topic Expertise
The speaker demonstrates profound expertise on the topics of taxation and socio-economic inequality. Specific terminology is employed (e.g., capital taxes, consumption taxes, tax wedge), and statistical comparisons are provided regarding the concentration of wealth in Estonia compared to other countries (the Netherlands, the US). It is emphasized that the wealth held by 50% of the Estonian population accounts for only 1.3% of the total wealth, clearly demonstrating a data-driven approach.
2 Speeches Analyzed
Rhetorical Style
The rhetorical style is critical and analytical, focusing on logical arguments and the systematic critique of government decisions. Strong emotional language is employed (e.g., "shocking," "exceptionally low") when discussing issues of political trust and inequality. The discourse is formal and structured, addressing both political promises and economic consequences.
2 Speeches Analyzed
Activity Patterns
The speaker referenced their previous criticism during the first reading, demonstrating consistent and active participation in the debate on the bill. This active involvement in the Riigikogu debate is further confirmed by the request for three additional minutes.
2 Speeches Analyzed
Opposition Stance
The main opponents are the government and the Reform Party, who are criticized for their ideological choices and for breaking political promises. The criticism is intense and targets both political injustice (the abolition of the tax hump) and the lack of credibility shown by Prime Minister Kristen Michal when making the security tax permanent. The opposition culminates in a proposal to interrupt the second reading.
2 Speeches Analyzed
Collaboration Style
The style of cooperation is unified and internal to the party, referencing a colleague’s (Tiit Maran) description of the concentration of wealth in an approving tone. Ultimately, a proposal is submitted on behalf of the Social Democrats to suspend the second reading, highlighting the faction’s unified opposition.
2 Speeches Analyzed
Regional Focus
The focus is primarily national (covering the Estonian tax system and population) and international, utilizing comparisons with neighboring countries, the Netherlands, and Western Europe to evaluate inequality and the tax burden. There are no references to specific local regions or industries.
2 Speeches Analyzed
Economic Views
The economic outlook is strongly focused on reducing inequality and promoting progressiveness, opposing the raising of consumption taxes and the maintenance of low capital taxes. The speaker criticizes the abolition of the 'tax hump' (maksuküür), arguing that it increases inequality and distributes half a billion to high-income earners. Emphasis is placed on the high tax burden faced by low-wage earners compared to other countries.
2 Speeches Analyzed
Social Issues
The primary social theme is economic inequality and relative poverty, which is being addressed through tax policy. Emphasis is placed on the rising cost of living and the negative impact of consumption taxes on the ability of low-income individuals to make ends meet.
2 Speeches Analyzed
Legislative Focus
The legislative focus centers on the opposition to the draft act (645 SE) amending the Law on Simplified Taxation of Business Income and the Income Tax Act. The speaker is a staunch opponent of the bill and, on behalf of the Social Democrats, submitted a proposal to terminate the second reading.
2 Speeches Analyzed