Agenda Profile: Riina Sikkut
Second reading of the draft law amending the Health Services Organisation Act, the Unemployment Insurance Act, and other related acts, as well as amending the Act on Support for Working Capacity (604 SE)
2025-06-12
15th Riigikogu, 5th session, plenary sitting
Political Position
The political stance is one of strong support for the bill (604 SE), which centers on making patient autonomy and end-of-life declarations of intent legally enforceable. This is a value-based approach, emphasizing human rights and peace of mind, while stressing that it does not regulate euthanasia or arrangements related to property. The speaker expressed satisfaction that this version of the bill genuinely makes existing rights actionable.
1 Speeches Analyzed
Topic Expertise
The speaker demonstrates expertise in the field of healthcare law and palliative care, referencing specific terminology and guidelines (e.g., the two parts of the palliative care guideline). They are well-versed in the technical aspects of the draft bill, such as the digital solutions available on the Health Portal and the necessity of consulting trained specialists. Furthermore, the speaker is up-to-date on terminological disputes ("patient's will" vs. "patient's end-of-life declaration of intent").
1 Speeches Analyzed
Rhetorical Style
The rhetorical style is one of gratitude, recognition, and conciliation, beginning with expressions of thanks directed toward the experts and the Chairman of the Social Affairs Committee. The speech is formal and focuses on logical justification, highlighting the substantive impact of the draft bill on people's quality of life and the adherence to their will. The concept of the "peace of mind aspect" is employed to underscore the emotional benefit, but the overall approach remains centered on the implementation of policy and rights.
1 Speeches Analyzed
Activity Patterns
Insufficient data.
1 Speeches Analyzed
Opposition Stance
There is no direct confrontation; the speaker addresses the aspects raised by colleagues (e.g., the free slot mentioned by Priit Sibul) constructively and supportively.
1 Speeches Analyzed
Collaboration Style
The collaborative style is highly appreciative and inclusive, emphasizing the contributions made by experts (Margit Sutrop) and the Chair of the Social Affairs Committee (Signe Riisalo) to the drafting of the bill and its inclusive procedure. The speaker demonstrates a readiness to heed expert advice, even on matters of terminology.
1 Speeches Analyzed
Regional Focus
The regional focus is aimed at achieving nationwide accessibility, emphasizing the need to ensure that palliative care options are available at the primary healthcare level and throughout all of Estonia.
1 Speeches Analyzed
Economic Views
Insufficient data.
1 Speeches Analyzed
Social Issues
A central theme in the social sphere is patient autonomy and the right to express one's wishes regarding end-of-life care—a crucial social and ethical issue. Emphasis is also placed on securing the rights of vulnerable groups (such as individuals with limited writing ability) so that they too can articulate their will. Furthermore, the importance of documenting wishes concerning spiritual care (pastoral care) and funeral arrangements is highlighted.
1 Speeches Analyzed
Legislative Focus
The legislative focus is on supporting and adopting Bill 604 SE (Act amending the Health Services Organization Act and other acts) on its second reading. The speaker is acting as a proponent and emphasizes the progress achieved in regulating patients' end-of-life declarations of intent and in creating digital solutions.
1 Speeches Analyzed