Session Profile: Riina Solman
15th Estonian Parliament, 4th session, plenary sitting
2024-12-04
Political Position
The political stance is sharply critical of the government's efforts to downgrade sensitive socio-political decisions (such as the conditions for gender reassignment) from the level of law to the level of regulation, citing concerns over the loss of parliamentary oversight. He also highlights deficiencies in Estonian foreign policy concerning Israel and terrorism (Hezbollah), drawing on an illustrative example from Israel’s northern border. His views are strongly value-based and emphasize procedural control.
6 Speeches Analyzed
Topic Expertise
The speaker demonstrates competence in the technical details of legislation, especially concerning the movement of enabling provisions and regulations between different acts (from RTerS to TTKS). They also possess historical knowledge regarding the Ministry of Social Affairs' earlier attempts to expedite gender reassignment procedures, referencing their own previous role as Minister of Population five years prior. To support their arguments, they utilize a comprehensive interview conducted with a recognized endocrinologist (Dr. Maie Väli).
6 Speeches Analyzed
Rhetorical Style
The rhetorical style is sustained, detailed, and at times demanding, especially when clarifying legal details, repeatedly questioning the scope and application of the authorizing norm. It employs both emotional appeals (referencing Israeli victims, a personal friend who regrets) and authoritative sources (doctors' quotes) to support its positions. The overall tone is concerned and cautionary against excessive haste.
6 Speeches Analyzed
Activity Patterns
The Member is active in plenary sessions, making both brief procedural interventions (points of order) and delivering long, detailed speeches during the debate on the draft law. He moves to adjourn the reading of the bill, demonstrating his willingness to utilize parliamentary procedural tools to defend his positions.
6 Speeches Analyzed
Opposition Stance
The main criticism is aimed at the Ministry of Social Affairs, which is accused of "fast-tracking" sensitive socio-political changes at the regulation level, thereby circumventing the control of the Riigikogu. He/She also criticizes the Foreign Minister's conduct in UN votes concerning Israel and terrorism. The criticism is both procedural, political, and value-based.
6 Speeches Analyzed
Collaboration Style
Insufficient data.
6 Speeches Analyzed
Regional Focus
The focus is split between national legislative procedures (the Public Health Act) and international issues (Israel's northern border, Hezbollah terrorist attacks). There is no reference to a specific Estonian local or regional focus.
6 Speeches Analyzed
Economic Views
Insufficient data.
6 Speeches Analyzed
Social Issues
From a sociopolitical standpoint, the speaker is extremely cautious about rushing gender transition procedures, stressing the necessity of psychological counseling and a longer waiting period. Drawing on doctors' recommendations, they warn that haste could lead to regret, psychological distress, and serious health risks. At the same time, the speaker recognizes the positive aspects of the new public health law concerning preventive care for children, nutrition, and environmental standards.
6 Speeches Analyzed
Legislative Focus
The primary legislative focus is the draft Public Health Act, regarding which the speaker is taking an adversarial role. The opposition centers specifically on the procedure for transferring a provision related to the conditions for gender reassignment services. The speaker is acting as an opponent of the bill, proposing to halt its reading to prevent an increase in government control at the regulatory level.
6 Speeches Analyzed