Session Profile: Riina Sikkut
15th Riigikogu, 5th session, plenary session
2025-03-26
Political Position
The speaker strongly emphasizes procedural correctness and the importance of democratic processes, arguing that in the case of weighty decisions, the manner is just as crucial as the substance. While he substantively supports the removal of voting rights from citizens of aggressor states (a stance he has maintained since 2022), he sharply criticizes the procedure of the constitutional amendment bill, which has been altered and now entails the disenfranchisement of grey passport holders. His political position is value-based, centered on protecting the reputation of the Riigikogu and Estonia's internal peace.
4 Speeches Analyzed
Topic Expertise
The speaker demonstrates competence in the field of constitutional law and legislative procedure, stressing that the constitutional amendment bill must be well thought out and its phrasing must match the style of the Constitution. They also possess knowledge regarding issues of citizenship and voting rights, referencing earlier discussions and government press conferences.
4 Speeches Analyzed
Rhetorical Style
The speaker's style is analytical and critical, employing strong judgments (e.g., "reprehensible," "unacceptable") to describe procedural errors. He/She uses rhetorical questions ("Does the end justify the means?") and emphasizes logical argumentation regarding the essence of democracy ("Democracy is a process"). The tone is concerned and cautionary concerning the violation of democratic norms.
4 Speeches Analyzed
Activity Patterns
The speaker is actively participating in the plenary session debate concerning a significant decision (2025-03-26). He/She references prior involvement in intra-party discussions and government press conferences dating back to 2022, which demonstrates long-term and consistent engagement with the issue of voting rights.
4 Speeches Analyzed
Opposition Stance
Criticism is aimed at the proponents of the draft bill and those responsible for conducting the proceedings, who are accused of negligence regarding social cohesion and damaging the reputation of the Riigikogu. The speaker alleges that the true motivation behind the bill is the desire to reshape their own constituency, rather than engaging in substantive and well-considered lawmaking. The criticism is primarily procedural and based on underlying motives.
4 Speeches Analyzed
Collaboration Style
The speaker advocates for cooperation, stressing that when dealing with significant decisions, one must "seek out opportunities for collaboration and points of convergence within the chamber beforehand." This indicates a desire to achieve consensus and prevent last-minute amendments that would undermine the decision's legitimacy.
4 Speeches Analyzed
Regional Focus
Not enough data.
4 Speeches Analyzed
Economic Views
Not enough data.
4 Speeches Analyzed
Social Issues
The speaker focuses on issues of citizenship and the right to vote, particularly the disenfranchisement of individuals with undetermined citizenship (holders of grey passports). He emphasizes the state's responsibility to ensure these individuals do not become alienated but remain ready to defend Estonia, and criticizes the negligence shown toward maintaining social cohesion.
4 Speeches Analyzed
Legislative Focus
The primary legislative focus centers on the procedural propriety of amending the constitution. The speaker is a staunch opponent of both the bill's process and the resulting amendments, particularly concerning the disenfranchisement of over 60,000 people, which was introduced during the course of the procedure.
4 Speeches Analyzed