Session Profile: Riina Sikkut
15th Riigikogu, 6th Session, Plenary Sitting
2025-10-13
Political Position
The political position is strongly opposed to the government's fiscal policy, criticizing it for shortsightedness and irresponsibility, especially concerning tax cuts financed by borrowed money and the breaking of promises regarding tax stability. It emphasizes the necessity of restoring trust in political institutions through dignified conduct and maintaining a long-term perspective. The speaker advocates for the sustainability of state finances and budgetary discipline.
8 Speeches Analyzed
Topic Expertise
The speaker demonstrates profound expertise in international taxation (OECD Model Conventions, double taxation avoidance treaties) and public finance (budgetary rules, the income tax wedge, budget neutrality). They utilize specific terminology such as "tax rates on passive income" and "legitimation crisis," and rely on expert recommendations concerning the budget neutrality of eliminating the income tax wedge.
8 Speeches Analyzed
Rhetorical Style
The rhetorical style is formal, analytical, and extremely critical of the government, employing strong judgments such as "irresponsible policy" and "exceptionally short-sighted." It appeals both to logic (the growth of interest costs, a rating downgrade) and to ethical standards (dignity, the restoration of trust). Direct and pointed questions are put to the ministers.
8 Speeches Analyzed
Activity Patterns
The speaker is active in plenary sessions, presenting as a representative of the Finance Committee during the processing of international agreements, and participating in the question rounds directed at ministers. They also mention introducing the work of the Riigikogu (Estonian Parliament) to students, referring to active communication outside the chamber.
8 Speeches Analyzed
Opposition Stance
The main criticism is aimed at the governing coalition and Prime Minister Kristen Michal, who are accused of breaking promises regarding tax stability and the irresponsible stewardship of state finances. The criticism is intense and centers on political blunders (lowering taxes using borrowed money) and a general lack of accountability. The speaker is extremely critical of the government's policies.
8 Speeches Analyzed
Collaboration Style
The work of the Finance Committee is characterized by consensual decision-making when handling treaties for the avoidance of double taxation (Oman, Liechtenstein). However, the stance on the government coalition's fiscal policy is opposing and critical, ruling out support for budget decisions deemed irresponsible.
8 Speeches Analyzed
Regional Focus
The focus is primarily on national and international topics, such as double taxation avoidance agreements with Oman and Liechtenstein, and Estonia's state budget policy. Attention is also paid to how amendments to the State Budget Act affect the revenue base of local governments.
8 Speeches Analyzed
Economic Views
Economic views emphasize fiscal responsibility, budget neutrality, and long-term sustainability. The speaker is strongly opposed to cutting taxes using borrowed money, considering it both costly and unfair because it primarily favors those with middle and higher incomes. They warn that irresponsible policy could lead to a downgrade of the country's sovereign rating.
8 Speeches Analyzed
Social Issues
Focusing on social issues, the text highlights the decline of trust in political institutions, describing it as an historically profound crisis of legitimacy. It stresses the importance of politicians maintaining their dignity and actively championing the welfare of Estonia to restore public confidence.
8 Speeches Analyzed
Legislative Focus
The legislative focus centers on the ratification of international treaties (DTAA) and challenging bills related to the government's fiscal policy (the Income Tax Act, the State Budget Act). It supports amending the Climate Law to become a short and specific framework act, while simultaneously raising questions regarding the relaxation of emission reduction targets.
8 Speeches Analyzed