Agenda Profile: Riina Solman
Draft resolution "Establishment of a working group to address the population crisis" (324 OE) – first reading
2024-10-09
Fifteenth Riigikogu, Fourth Session, Plenary Session.
Political Position
The most crucial issue is the demographic crisis and the drastic drop in the birth rate, which is viewed as fundamental to the state’s continued existence. The speaker is vehemently opposed to the government’s inaction and the cuts to family policy, accusing the government of breaking its word and dismantling institutions. The political framework is strongly results-oriented and values-driven, emphasizing the state’s obligation to be a reliable partner to families.
4 Speeches Analyzed
Topic Expertise
The speaker demonstrates deep expertise in the fields of demography and population science, clearly distinguishing this area from broader social policy. Specific statistical data are utilized (e.g., natural increase is negative 5,000, the number of births is below 10,000), and reference is made to the impact of previous policies (such as the 2017 third child benefit). Population policy is treated as a narrow domain encompassing migration, natural growth, birth, and death.
4 Speeches Analyzed
Rhetorical Style
The style is forceful, critical, and at times emotional, especially regarding the government's actions, which are described as "spineless and faceless." Memorable metaphors are used (e.g., population policy is not a "letter to Santa Claus" and "the grass is greener where it is watered"). It appeals both to logic (statistics and historical data) and to emotions (the removal of families' sense of security).
4 Speeches Analyzed
Activity Patterns
The speaker is actively participating in the Riigikogu bill debate, citing their previous tenure as Minister of Population Affairs and the questions they submitted to the Social Affairs Committee. This demonstrates a consistent and institutional engagement with demographic issues.
4 Speeches Analyzed
Opposition Stance
The main opposition is directed at Kaja Kallas’s governments and the Minister of Social Protection, Signe Riisalo. The criticism is intense and policy-based, focusing on the abolition of the institution of the Minister of Population and the cutting of family benefits. The solution proposed by the government (controlled migration) is considered inadequate and unsatisfactory.
4 Speeches Analyzed
Collaboration Style
The speaker acknowledges previous cross-party cooperation, highlighting the 2017 creation of the third child benefit as a successful example that emerged as a "bipartisan measure." This indicates a readiness for compromise and collaboration in addressing demographic issues.
4 Speeches Analyzed
Regional Focus
The focus is clearly at the national level, addressing the issues of the sustainability of the Estonian population and the viability of the state. Regional focus is represented only by the mention of a small town the size of Rakvere, which is used to illustrate the extent of the annual population loss.
4 Speeches Analyzed
Economic Views
Supports public investment in family policy and increasing family benefits, particularly during times of economic uncertainty (high inflation, rising Euribor). It is strongly opposed to tax increases and cuts to family benefits, as these worsen the situation for families with children who already bear significant unavoidable expenses.
4 Speeches Analyzed
Social Issues
The main social issue is supporting the birth rate and ensuring the security of families for the sake of the nation's survival. It takes a critical view of using immigration as a solution to the birth rate crisis, emphasizing the need to increase support for the first and second child, as well as support for single parents. It acknowledges the assistance provided to Ukrainian war refugees but distinguishes this from the core task of ensuring the continuation of the Estonian people.
4 Speeches Analyzed
Legislative Focus
The speaker supports the formation of a special committee and prioritizes legislative initiatives that increase family benefits (for the first and second child, and single parents). [He/She] criticizes the government's inaction in developing a vision and strategy to support the birth rate, as well as the failure to utilize European Union funding for expanding the network of family support centers.
4 Speeches Analyzed