Session Profile: Riina Solman

The political focus is centered on combating poverty and regional marginalization, issues that are also being framed as matters of Estonian national security. The speaker is vehemently opposed to the government's proposed tax hikes (VAT, excise duties, car tax), arguing that they will worsen the cost of living and erode purchasing power, particularly for large families and individuals with disabilities. These positions are heavily results-oriented, highlighting the positive effects of social measures implemented by previous administrations while criticizing the current government's failure to meet its stated objectives.

The presenter demonstrates expertise in social policy and poverty indicators, citing the United Nations 2030 Agenda goals and 2023 data from Statistics Estonia. Specific figures are utilized concerning the effectiveness of social transfers (9%) and the rate of relative poverty in Ida-Viru County. Furthermore, the presentation includes insights into the effect of family benefits on birth rates, noting a 25% increase in the number of third and subsequent children born following the 2017 reform.

The rhetorical style is critical and pressing, combining statistical data with emotional appeals concerning poverty and marginalization, which is referred to as "the hidden side of the Estonian state." Figurative language is employed (e.g., "the little golden key"), and sharp questions are posed to the Prime Minister, demanding concrete solutions. The tone is formal, yet direct and accusatory.

The speaker referred to the content of the questions sent in advance, which demonstrates preparation for the briefing. He/She also mentioned participating in a discussion with Signe Riisalo at the Social Affairs Committee, where they discussed the measures implemented during the COVID crisis.

The main opponent is the Reform Party government, which is being accused of taking money away from people via tax hikes and benefit cuts. The criticism is policy-based, particularly concerning the car tax, VAT, and the pension pillar reform, all of which are viewed as failing to help low-wage earners. The speaker also corrected the prime minister's statements regarding Isamaa's dismantling of the second pillar.

Refers positively to the previous cooperation during Jüri Ratas's second government, whose measures were people-centric and improved the standard of living. Also notes a recent discussion in the Social Affairs Committee with Signe Riisalo, where the measure they had introduced received approval.

The focus is heavily on regional marginalization and internal migration, stressing that poverty is concentrated specifically in peripheral areas. Ida-Viru County is cited specifically, where more than a third of the population lives in relative poverty, along with Võru, Valga, Põlva Counties, and the islands. Solutions are needed to ease the pressure of internal migration so that people are not forced to move to Tallinn, Harju County, or Tartu simply to find better wages.

They advocate for social transfers and benefits aimed at alleviating poverty, but are vehemently opposed to tax hikes, arguing that these reduce purchasing power and make it harder for people to cope financially. Furthermore, they criticize the structure of the second pension pillar, asserting that it collectively supports bank fund managers and Swedish pensioners, rather than benefiting the Estonian economy or low-income individuals.

It focuses on poverty, the well-being of families with children, and the issue of the birth rate, linking this to the preservation of the nation-state and Estonian culture. It strongly supports benefits for large families, citing their positive impact on natality and emphasizing that children are not born precisely because of financial constraints.

It focuses on the evaluation of social policy measures, particularly subsidies for large families and the pension pillar reform. It calls for new solutions to alleviate the pressure of internal migration in peripheral areas stemming from the rising cost of living. It also references a measure discussed and approved by the Social Affairs Committee, which was implemented during the COVID crisis.