Agenda Profile: Riina Solman
Chair implementation
2025-09-04
15th Riigikogu, extraordinary session of the Riigikogu
Political Position
The speaker's political focus is heavily concentrated on opposing the government's tax policy and social cuts, particularly concerning the car tax and the reduction of family benefits, which they deem unfair to rural residents and families with many children. Other key issues include the demographic crisis, restricting immigration, and security matters, such as suspending the voting rights of Russian citizens. The political framework is strongly value-driven (centered on the protection of the family and the population) and highly critical of the government's activities.
23 Speeches Analyzed
Topic Expertise
The speaker demonstrates consistent knowledge in the field of social and regional policy, detailing family benefits, the taxation of pensioners, and social welfare reform. To support their arguments, they use specific data (e.g., a record-low birth rate, a budget expenditure of 500 million euros for eliminating the tax hump) and refer to legal grounds (Article 28 of the Constitution). They are also well-versed in topics related to educational organization and internal security.
23 Speeches Analyzed
Rhetorical Style
The speaker's style is predominantly combative, critical, and emotionally charged, utilizing strong language such as "stupid bill," "child-hostile minister," and "heartbreaking letter." He/She contrasts the government's policies with the struggles faced by specific individuals and families (e.g., the Lääne-Nigula family, a mother of six), stressing moral justice. While the speeches are formal (when submitting official inquiries), their content is sharp and accusatory.
23 Speeches Analyzed
Activity Patterns
The speaker is highly active in the Riigikogu, regularly submitting interpellations to prime ministers (Kallas, Michal) and several ministers (Riisalo, Läänemets, Hartman, Kallas, Taro) in nearly every month under review. Their pattern of activity centers on scrutinizing and criticizing the government's actions via these interpellations. Furthermore, they also submitted one legislative draft proposal.
23 Speeches Analyzed
Opposition Stance
The primary targets are the government coalition led by the Reform Party and its ministers, particularly Signe Riisalo, who faces accusations of being hostile towards children and undermining the constitution. The criticism is both political (tax hikes, budget cuts) and personal/procedural (lying, poor political culture, unethical conduct within the nursing home sector). The attacks are intense, and there is no mention of any possibility of compromise.
23 Speeches Analyzed
Collaboration Style
The speaker works closely with the Isamaa faction, submitting interpellations and proposals on behalf of fellow faction members (e.g., Solman, Reinsalu, Sibul, Kokk). He/She notes that the opposition is "united" regarding the social welfare reform. There is no information regarding cooperation with coalition parties or other parliamentary parties.
23 Speeches Analyzed
Regional Focus
The speaker strongly stresses the issue of rural areas and regional inequality, criticizing government policies that make life in the countryside difficult (the car tax, lack of essential services). They cite specific examples, such as the Lääne-Nigula municipality and the closure of shops in the Räpina municipality, and demand that public services be guaranteed outside of major growth centers.
23 Speeches Analyzed
Economic Views
The speaker is a strong opponent of tax increases (income tax and car tax), believing they undermine the financial stability of families and pensioners. The speaker criticizes the government for eliminating the "tax hump," which causes a significant budget deficit, rather than focusing on solving poverty issues. Furthermore, the speaker defends economic freedom (specifically the pension pillar) and is skeptical of new regulations (such as those concerning the origin of raw materials) that impose administrative burdens on businesses.
23 Speeches Analyzed
Social Issues
The central social theme is the demographic crisis and supporting large families, standing in opposition to the government's budget cuts. He demands restrictions on immigration and expresses concern about internal security. Additionally, he emphasizes dignified aging and home care for the elderly, and condemns the continuation of voting rights for Russian citizens, citing security and moral considerations.
23 Speeches Analyzed
Legislative Focus
The speaker's primary legislative activity involves initiating interpellations aimed at reversing government policy (e.g., withdrawing the car tax, investigating plans to terminate pension indexation). He/She initiated a proposal to grant local municipalities the right to restrict the use of rented light mobility devices through an amendment to the Traffic Act. He/She is a strong opponent of education reforms that increase the burden on students.
23 Speeches Analyzed