Agenda Profile: Riina Solman
Third Reading of the Draft Health Care Act (433 SE)
2024-12-11
15th Riigikogu, 4th session, plenary session
Political Position
The political position centers on utilizing the draft Public Health Act to issue a strong, value-based warning regarding the transfer and potential relaxation of regulations governing gender reassignment. Although the speaker supports the bill’s general objectives, such as prevention and the protection of children’s health, their main point is to call for parliamentary vigilance concerning amendments made at the ministerial level. They warn against political pressure seeking to eliminate restrictions on sensitive medical procedures.
2 Speeches Analyzed
Topic Expertise
The speaker demonstrates expertise in legislative procedures, particularly regarding the movement of regulations from the Public Health Act to the Health Services Organization Act. He supports his positions with medical expertise, extensively quoting the views of endocrinologist Maie Väli concerning transgender issues, the long-term consequences of hormone therapy, and the importance of psychological counseling. He also refers to his experience as the Population Minister, during which time he addressed this topic.
2 Speeches Analyzed
Rhetorical Style
The rhetorical style is serious, cautious, and insistent, emphasizing the need to be vigilant and keep a close watch on matters. The speaker employs a logical and evidence-based approach, drawing upon their previous ministerial experience and extensive citations from a medical expert. They use their platform to remind the Riigikogu of the history and risks associated with this sensitive topic.
2 Speeches Analyzed
Activity Patterns
The speaker referred to their previous tenure as Minister of Population Affairs between 2019 and 2021, during which time they faced pressure to loosen restrictions on gender reassignment. They also mention their current involvement in the work of the Social Affairs Committee, where they have repeatedly inquired about plans to amend the regulation.
2 Speeches Analyzed
Opposition Stance
The criticism is aimed at the Ministry of Social Affairs, which, during the speaker's tenure as minister, exerted pressure to ease restrictions on gender reassignment, including eliminating the two-year waiting period. Separate criticism is leveled against the 2023 statement by Minister of Social Protection Signe Riisalo, which linked addressing issues of gender self-determination with cuts to family benefits. The criticism is intense and focuses on political coercion and procedural risk.
2 Speeches Analyzed
Collaboration Style
Not enough data.
2 Speeches Analyzed
Regional Focus
The focus is entirely on national legislation and the activities of ministries; there is no regional or local focus.
2 Speeches Analyzed
Economic Views
Not enough data.
2 Speeches Analyzed
Social Issues
Among social issues, the central focus is on gender self-determination and the regulation of gender affirmation care. The speaker calls for caution, arguing against the relaxation of restrictions and emphasizing the necessity of psychological counseling and a long waiting period. They warn against rushing the process, especially concerning younger patients, and stress the lifelong nature of hormone therapy.
2 Speeches Analyzed
Legislative Focus
The primary legislative focus is the third reading of the Public Health Act draft (433 SE). The speaker's priority is to ensure that when the regulation of gender reassignment is transferred to the Health Services Organization Act, control by the Riigikogu is maintained, thereby preventing any easing or softening of requirements at the ministry level. He/She supports the general provisions of the law but is concentrating on one specific regulatory shift.
2 Speeches Analyzed