Agenda Profile: Riina Solman
Draft law amending the Constitution of the Republic of Estonia (536 SE) – second reading
2025-02-25
15th Riigikogu, 5th session, plenary session
Political Position
The political position is strongly value-based, focusing on the preservation of the Estonian nation, language, and culture, as stipulated by the preamble of the Constitution. The speaker is firmly opposed to granting suffrage to non-citizens and individuals with undetermined citizenship, particularly citizens of aggressor states. The stance is that the removal of voting rights enhances Estonia's security, contrary to opponents' claims that such a move would lead to destabilization.
5 Speeches Analyzed
Topic Expertise
The speaker demonstrates knowledge of electoral law practices in European countries, citing Latvia and other states where non-citizens do not possess the right to vote. Furthermore, he possesses thorough knowledge of Estonia’s recent history and security situation, referencing the 2007 Bronze Soldier crisis, the analyses provided by Brigadier General Ants Laaneots, and Russia’s geopolitical doctrine. It is also noted that the voter turnout among Russian citizens residing in Estonia during Putin’s elections is higher than in their historical homeland.
5 Speeches Analyzed
Rhetorical Style
The rhetorical style is highly passionate, direct, and combative, going so far as to accuse opponents of outright lies, gullibility, and naivety. Strong emotional appeals are employed, grounded in personal and national historical trauma, referencing the fate of the Ingrian people and their subjugation under Soviet rule. The speaker balances this historical narrative and ethical calls (such as voting according to conscience) with constitutional arguments.
5 Speeches Analyzed
Activity Patterns
The speaker is participating intensely and reactively in the second reading of a crucial bill, taking the floor specifically to refute the claims made by the opposition. He notes that he had not originally intended to speak, but felt compelled to do so because of the arguments presented by the opponents. His previous work experience as an advisor to Minister of Defence Jaak Aaviksoo in 2007 is also mentioned.
5 Speeches Analyzed
Opposition Stance
The main opponents are the Centre Party and the Social Democrats, who are criticized for acting on opportunistic motives regarding the issue of voting rights and for taking the Russian-speaking voter hostage. The opponents’ assertions about the destabilizing effect of revoking voting rights are dismissed as an outright lie and absurd. No willingness to compromise is shown; instead, there is a call to disregard the opponents’ arguments entirely.
5 Speeches Analyzed
Collaboration Style
The speaker is acting as an endorser of the positions held by the Isamaa faction, referencing Faction Chairman Helir-Valdor Seeder and Committee Representative Jaanus Karilaid. All members of the Riigikogu are urged to vote on the constitutional amendment according to their conscience, stressing a value-based approach that transcends party lines.
5 Speeches Analyzed
Regional Focus
The regional focus is geopolitical, emphasizing the position of the Baltic states relative to the Baltic Sea and Russia, as well as Russia's historical interest in conquering our territories. Domestically, the focus is on the situation in Tallinn, especially Lasnamäe, criticizing the lack of national symbols there and the opposition to Estonian-language education, which has created a "little Russia."
5 Speeches Analyzed
Economic Views
Insufficient data.
5 Speeches Analyzed
Social Issues
At the heart of social issues lies the preservation of the nation, language, and culture, alongside the obligation of loyalty toward the Estonian state. The speaker sharply criticizes the entrenchment of Russian-language education and the lack of integration, viewing this as a direct security threat. It is emphasized that members of parliament must make decisions on an ethical level, standing up for the preservation of the Estonian nation.
5 Speeches Analyzed
Legislative Focus
The main legislative focus is the second reading of the draft Act on Amendments to the Constitution (Bill 536 SE), which concerns the revocation of voting rights from citizens of aggressor states. The speaker supports concluding the second reading of the bill but disapproves of the coalition's intention to enshrine the voting rights of persons with undetermined citizenship in the Constitution.
5 Speeches Analyzed