Agenda Profile: Riina Solman
Draft law amending § 5 of the Act on the Election of Municipal Councils (530 SE) – First Reading
2025-01-30
Fifteenth Estonian Parliament, fifth session, plenary session.
Political Position
The political position strongly supports restricting the voting rights of citizens of the aggressor state, viewing this as a necessary security measure. At the same time, emphasis is placed on a principled concern that the draft law might provoke resentment and alienate patriotic residents of Estonia who hold a Russian or 'grey' passport. The speaker is seeking solutions that would balance the need for security with social cohesion.
1 Speeches Analyzed
Topic Expertise
The assessment focuses on the complex nuances of citizenship and integration, particularly among alien's passport holders (grey passport holders) and Russian citizens who are unable to renounce their citizenship or pass the required exam. The speaker demonstrates awareness of the public media debate, specifically referencing the ERR program "Impulss" and the arguments presented therein advocating for conciliation.
1 Speeches Analyzed
Rhetorical Style
The rhetorical style is formal, courteous, and interrogative, beginning with strong agreement regarding the law's objective. The speaker employs a logical appeal to broaden the discussion beyond the narrow scope of the bill, focusing on the social and psychological consequences (defiance, alienation).
1 Speeches Analyzed
Activity Patterns
Not enough data (Only one address was presented, which was a question posed during the first reading of the draft bill).
1 Speeches Analyzed
Opposition Stance
Direct opposition to the draft bill is not expressed; rather, the rigid approach is indirectly criticized because it fails to take into account Estonian patriots who hold Russian or grey passports. The speaker draws attention to objections raised in the media (specifically on the ERR show "Impulss"), which recommend a more accommodating stance in politics.
1 Speeches Analyzed
Collaboration Style
The style of cooperation is initially supportive and agreeable concerning the core principle of the draft, thereby establishing a foundation for constructive dialogue with the rapporteur. Simultaneously, the rapporteur is asked to provide broader commentary and solutions on issues that fall outside the narrow scope of the draft, demonstrating a commitment to resolving problems more holistically.
1 Speeches Analyzed
Regional Focus
The focus is at the national and international level, addressing issues of citizenship, voting rights, and integration in the context of Russian and 'grey passport' holders living in Estonia. Specific regional or local topics are absent.
1 Speeches Analyzed
Economic Views
Not enough data (Ei ole piisavalt andmeid)
1 Speeches Analyzed
Social Issues
The central social issues revolve around loyalty, citizenship, and integration, particularly among non-citizen passport holders and Russian citizens. The speaker emphasizes the necessity of avoiding the provocation of resentment among those who are Estonian patriots, and is seeking solutions to the barriers to obtaining citizenship.
1 Speeches Analyzed
Legislative Focus
The legislative focus is currently on Bill 530 SE, which proposes amendments to the Local Government Council Election Act regarding the restriction of voting rights. The speaker supports this measure and is using the bill's proceedings as a platform to initiate a broader discussion aimed at finding comprehensive solutions within citizenship policy.
1 Speeches Analyzed