Session Profile: Riina Solman
The 15th Riigikogu, 6th Session, Information Hour
2025-10-22
Political Position
The political emphasis is placed on reforming the judicial system (addressing lengthy proceedings and judge stress), achieving regional political balance (specifically mentioning the Jõhvi courthouse and the consolidation of the school network), and transforming birth rate policy into a cross-sectoral responsibility under the Prime Minister. Criticism is directed at the government's inaction regarding judicial reform and previous budgetary decisions that impacted family benefits. The stated positions are strongly geared toward improving the system's functionality and achieving demographic objectives.
5 Speeches Analyzed
Topic Expertise
The analysis delves into the specifics of the judicial system's issues, citing particular judges and an article written by Supreme Court Chief Justice Villu Kõve. Furthermore, expertise is demonstrated regarding analyses of demography and education sector funding, highlighting the necessity of accounting for smaller generations. On the technological front, inquiries are raised concerning flexible work allocation, digital solutions, and the secure implementation of artificial intelligence in supporting court functions.
5 Speeches Analyzed
Rhetorical Style
The style is generally formal and analytical, relying in its questions on specific sources such as "Pealtnägija" and ERR. The dialogue with the Minister of Finance is at times personal and engaging, employing rhetorical devices (e.g., a reference to the minister being a grandfather) to emphasize the topic of family policy. The overall tone is demanding and concerned, calling on the ministers to present concrete plans.
5 Speeches Analyzed
Activity Patterns
The speaker was active during the information hour, posing several detailed questions to both the Minister of Justice and the Minister of Finance. This pattern involves utilizing recent media sources and expert analyses (e.g., the Joller analysis) to exert political pressure and bring issues onto the agenda.
5 Speeches Analyzed
Opposition Stance
Criticism is directed at the government's inaction (e.g., the lack of plans for judicial reform) and the specific cut decisions made by previous governments. Specifically highlighted is the 101,000 euro reduction in support for extracurricular activities for large families, which was aimed at families in rural areas. The opposition is policy- and procedure-based, demanding clear steps and a vision.
5 Speeches Analyzed
Collaboration Style
The speaker bases their political proposals on expert analyses and models of previous policy implementation (for example, Liisa Pakosta's equality policy). Efforts are made to establish a dialogue with the minister, even when the questions are demanding, and satisfaction is expressed regarding the constructive nature of the discussion.
5 Speeches Analyzed
Regional Focus
A strong regional focus is maintained, highlighting the differences in the speed of case resolution across various regions (Tallinn versus Tartu/Pärnu). Specific emphasis is placed on the necessity of retaining the Ida-Virumaa and Jõhvi courthouse as a key regional policy institution. Furthermore, concern is voiced regarding plans to consolidate the school network, which would negatively impact rural areas.
5 Speeches Analyzed
Economic Views
Economic perspectives focus on the financial management of demographic shifts within the education sector. There is a demand that surplus funds generated by providing services to smaller generations should be reserved for services aimed at families with children, rather than being redirected towards other policy areas. Opposition is voiced against specific social cuts that negatively impact the financial stability and coping ability of families.
5 Speeches Analyzed
Social Issues
The primary social issue is birth rate and family policy, which should be implemented across all sectors under the responsibility of the Prime Minister. It is emphasized that the state possesses the levers to help families achieve their desired number of children, and the lack of necessary resources is criticized. Maintaining children's services and subsidies for extracurricular activities in rural areas is also important.
5 Speeches Analyzed
Legislative Focus
The focus is on systemic reforms and strategic planning, rather than specific legislative drafts. Priorities include judicial reform (including the implementation of digital solutions and AI) and the introduction of cross-sectoral governance for population policy at the government level.
5 Speeches Analyzed