Session Profile: Riina Solman
15th Riigikogu, 4th sitting, press briefing
2024-12-04
Political Position
The political position is strongly opposed to the government’s foreign policy shift regarding the Israeli-Palestinian issue at the UN, considering it a betrayal of values and a security threat. Furthermore, there is a sharp demand for accountability regarding the losses incurred from Eesti Energia’s derivative transactions, highlighting the lack of responsibility taken by former finance ministers. The policy framework is strongly values-based and centers on the accountability of ministerial actions. The speaker criticizes the government for failing to pursue values-based politics.
5 Speeches Analyzed
Topic Expertise
The speaker demonstrates knowledge of the geopolitical situation in the Middle East, referencing a personal visit to Israel's northern border and a specific tragedy (the death of 12 children resulting from a Hezbollah rocket strike). He also has a detailed overview of Eesti Energia's financial issues, especially concerning derivatives transactions, the millions that were lost/unrealized, and the role of the Minister of Finance acting as the general meeting (shareholder). He is able to reference specific votes at the UN (December 2023 and 2024) and media sources (ERR AK news reports).
5 Speeches Analyzed
Rhetorical Style
The rhetorical style is sharp, accusatory, and emotional, employing strong appeals (such as showing a football with children's names, questions regarding the prime minister's "shame" and "fear"). The speaker is direct and repeatedly demands answers, while simultaneously criticizing the interference of other ministers. He uses a personal anecdote (preferring writing over speaking) to justify his behavior.
5 Speeches Analyzed
Activity Patterns
An active participant in the Riigikogu's question time, submitting repeated questions and inquiries concerning two main topics. Mentions a recent trip to the Middle East, specifically to Israel's northern border. Refers to recent events, such as a special committee session and the threats made by the head of the Environmental Board, reported in ERR news.
5 Speeches Analyzed
Opposition Stance
The main targets of criticism are the government broadly, Prime Minister Kristen Michal, the Minister of Foreign Affairs (due to the change in course), and the Ministers of Finance (for avoiding responsibility regarding Eesti Energia). The criticism is intense both politically (changing values) and procedurally (Jürgen Ligi's constant interference). The speaker accuses the government of jeopardizing Estonia's security interests and the safety of the Jewish community.
5 Speeches Analyzed
Collaboration Style
Insufficient data. The speaker focuses on criticizing the government and demanding accountability, rather than cooperation.
5 Speeches Analyzed
Regional Focus
A strong emphasis is placed on international security issues, particularly the situation in the Middle East (Israel), and Estonia's foreign policy conduct at the UN. Domestically, the focus is on the management and financial accountability of the nationally important company, Eesti Energia.
5 Speeches Analyzed
Economic Views
Economic perspectives focus on the financial accountability and transparency of state-owned enterprises. There is a demand for finance ministers to be held responsible for the financial losses incurred at Eesti Energia stemming from derivative transactions. Criticism is directed at the situation where executives face the threat of criminal investigation while ministers manage to evade responsibility.
5 Speeches Analyzed
Social Issues
Regarding social issues, emphasis is placed on the sense of security felt by the Estonian Jewish community, which is tied to the government's foreign policy actions. The Middle East conflict is viewed through a strong moral and security lens, highlighting both the tragedy of children's deaths and the support given to terrorist organizations within the UN.
5 Speeches Analyzed
Legislative Focus
The focus is on demanding accountability and justifications for the decisions of the executive branch (foreign policy, management of Eesti Energia). Reference is made to the work of the special committee, which indicates an interest in parliamentary oversight and audits. Specific draft laws or amendments are not mentioned.
5 Speeches Analyzed