Agenda Profile: Riina Solman
Draft law (583 SE) for the first reading regarding accession to the Optional Protocol to the Convention on the Elimination of All Forms of Discrimination Against Women and approval of amendment to Article 20, paragraph 1, of the Convention.
2025-03-20
15th Riigikogu, 5th session, plenary session
Political Position
The political position is strongly opposed to the timing of the processing of the given bill (583 SE), viewing it as a bureaucratic diversion. The speaker stresses that the priority should be stimulating the economy and addressing tax hikes, thereby calling into question the priorities of the government’s actions. This position is fundamentally results-oriented, focusing on the inefficiency of the government’s operations.
2 Speeches Analyzed
Topic Expertise
The speaker demonstrates knowledge of the substance of the Optional Protocol, particularly its effect on the international right of individual petition for Estonian citizens. He employs economic arguments, citing the high hourly cost of the procedure and the increase in bureaucracy, even though he provides no concrete data. The analysis centers on criticizing the costs associated with the legislative process and bureaucracy.
2 Speeches Analyzed
Rhetorical Style
The rhetorical style is confrontational and critical, accusing the minister of arrogant behavior and inappropriate self-congratulation. Both logical arguments are employed (bureaucracy, the high hourly cost) as well as ethical appeals (referencing the Prime Minister's demand for humility). The tone conveys astonishment and bewilderment, emphasizing the government's fundamental misalignment of priorities.
2 Speeches Analyzed
Activity Patterns
No data available.
2 Speeches Analyzed
Opposition Stance
The main backlash is directed at the minister and the government, who are being criticized for the poor timing of the draft bill and excessive bureaucracy. The criticism is both procedural and personal, accusing the minister of an arrogant style and ignoring the prime minister’s recommendation to show humility. The resistance is intense and has manifested in the situation being labeled "bizarre."
2 Speeches Analyzed
Collaboration Style
The style of cooperation indicates a reference or signal to a colleague in the chamber to clarify a shared position on the topic of women's rights, suggesting internal coordination or the defense of the faction's position. There is no information available regarding bilateral or cross-party cooperation.
2 Speeches Analyzed
Regional Focus
The focus is on national legislation and international treaties; there is no regional or local emphasis.
2 Speeches Analyzed
Economic Views
Economic views stress the urgent necessity for economic stimulation and a firm opposition to tax hikes. Legislative work is regarded as a costly resource ("the hourly rate is so expensive") that must not be squandered on additional bureaucracy, indicating a commitment to fiscal discipline and a growth-oriented approach.
2 Speeches Analyzed
Social Issues
The social focus is on the elimination of discrimination and the international right to seek redress. The speaker emphasizes the need to ensure equal opportunities for men as well when addressing issues of discrimination, especially when a new international avenue of recourse is being created for women. The speaker categorically denies any opposition to women's rights.
2 Speeches Analyzed
Legislative Focus
The legislative focus centers on opposing the Optional Protocol (Bill 583 SE) during its first reading, arguing that it is irrelevant and increases bureaucracy. The speaker opposes the draft bill and demands that legislative time be redirected toward economic revitalization.
2 Speeches Analyzed