Session Profile: Riina Solman
15th Riigikogu, Riigikogu extraordinary session.
2024-07-29
Political Position
The political position is strongly value-driven, focusing on the removal of symbols of the Soviet occupation (especially the Maarjamäe memorial) and opposing any attempts to reinterpret them. Emphasis is placed on the necessity of removing 'red monuments' from the public sphere, equating Soviet symbolism with that of Nazi Germany. This stance is firmly aimed at protecting national historical memory and the sentiments of those who were repressed.
3 Speeches Analyzed
Topic Expertise
The speaker demonstrates knowledge regarding the symbols of the Soviet occupation and the historical and emotional significance of the Maarjamäe Memorial. Specific terminology is employed, referencing Memento, the organization for the repressed, and the status of the Maarjamäe area as a burial ground. Emphasis is placed on the necessity of ascertaining the opinions of the Estonian people and the repressed before making public statements.
3 Speeches Analyzed
Rhetorical Style
The rhetorical style is highly combative and accusatory, especially towards the distrusted individual who is referred to as the "Savisaar faction." Strong emotional appeals are employed, referencing public sentiment and the negative significance of the memorial ("the hands of the rapists"). The style is also procedural, criticizing the actions of the Deputy Speaker of the Riigikogu and demanding answers to repeated questions.
3 Speeches Analyzed
Activity Patterns
The course of action is linked to active participation in the discussion of the motion of no confidence during the Riigikogu extraordinary session. The pattern encompasses repeated questioning and making procedural interventions to ensure that important questions are answered. The speaker is a persistent demander of answers.
3 Speeches Analyzed
Opposition Stance
Strong opposition is directed at Vladimir Svet, who is being criticized for failing to answer questions, arrogance, and ignoring the feelings of the Estonian people. Svet’s political style is being labeled as "pure Savisaar school." Criticism is also aimed at the Deputy Speaker of the Riigikogu and other members of parliament (Odinets, Kaljulaid) for violating procedural rules.
3 Speeches Analyzed
Collaboration Style
Information is scarce. The speaker identifies himself as the Vice-Chairman of Isamaa, but the speeches presented focus on confrontation and procedural criticism.
3 Speeches Analyzed
Regional Focus
The focus is on a specific national monument in Tallinn (the Maarjamäe memorial), addressing it more broadly as an issue that touches upon the feelings of the Estonian people and those who were repressed. This is a matter of national importance, concerning the treatment and handling of occupation symbols in the public sphere.
3 Speeches Analyzed
Economic Views
Information is scarce. While the desire of a history museum official to receive 200,000 euros annually from the state is mentioned, this reference is contextual and is used purely as a political argument.
3 Speeches Analyzed
Social Issues
The primary social theme revolves around historical memory and justice, emphasizing the importance of the feelings of those repressed (Memento) and the Estonian people concerning the issue of Soviet symbols. There is a demand for the removal of Red Army symbolism from the public sphere, and the sanctity of the cemetery area, where Estonian soldiers are also interred, is underscored.
3 Speeches Analyzed
Legislative Focus
The legislative focus is directed toward the policy of removing occupation symbols and the issues concerning the status of war graves. The speaker demands a clear stance regarding the removal of Red Army symbolism and criticizes officials who have failed to take the public's opinion into account.
3 Speeches Analyzed