Session Profile: Riina Solman
15th Riigikogu, 5th session, plenary session
2025-06-09
Political Position
The speaker is fiercely oppositional, concentrating on a sharp critique of the government's economic policy and tax hikes (the so-called "tax festival"), which, in their estimation, will push a quarter of the population into poverty. The political focus is heavily directed toward social justice, halting regional marginalization, and improving the financial well-being of families. The stance is forcefully results-driven, accusing the government of destroying the competitiveness of the Estonian economy and demanding snap elections as the way out of the current situation.
8 Speeches Analyzed
Topic Expertise
The speaker demonstrates knowledge of poverty indicators (relative poverty, UN 2030 goals) and regional differences, citing data from Statistics Estonia. The professional focus is on tax policy, highlighting specific tax rates (e.g., 24% VAT and income tax) and criticizing the imposition of 26 different types of taxes and the impact of abolishing the so-called "tax hump" on low-wage earners.
8 Speeches Analyzed
Rhetorical Style
The speaker's style is highly combative, critical, and emotionally charged, using phrases like "tax festival," "sleight of hand," and "insane." He/She consistently contrasts the prime minister’s optimistic slogans ("life will get easier") with bleak future forecasts, demanding that the prime minister speak the truth. The speech is formal, yet it includes strong personal accusations directed at the government.
8 Speeches Analyzed
Activity Patterns
The speaker is actively involved in parliamentary work, having submitted a formal query (interpellation) to the Prime Minister in April, along with their fellow faction members, regarding poverty and livelihood issues. This indicates systematic and planned parliamentary oversight of the government's activities.
8 Speeches Analyzed
Opposition Stance
The main criticism is directed at the government led by the Reform Party and the prime minister, accusing them of poor economic management and worsening the standard of living for the populace. The criticism is policy- and results-based, emphasizing the government's low support (80% of voters do not support it) and demanding snap elections. Additionally, the agreement concerning the transfer of Swedish prisoners is being criticized, highlighting reputational damage and security concerns.
8 Speeches Analyzed
Collaboration Style
The speaker operates in close cooperation with their fellow faction members (submitting an interpellation) and refers to other colleagues (Lauri Laats) when addressing the topic, which demonstrates cooperation within the opposition. Seeking compromises or cooperation with the government is not mentioned; instead, the opposition to the government's activities is emphasized.
8 Speeches Analyzed
Regional Focus
The speaker strongly emphasizes the problem of marginalization and regional inequality, specifically naming Ida-Viru County, Võru, Valga, Põlva County, and the islands as regions suffering from poverty. He demands regional support packages and accessibility to infrastructure, medical care, and education even outside the "golden ring" surrounding Tallinn and Tartu.
8 Speeches Analyzed
Economic Views
The speaker is a staunch opponent of tax hikes, calling them drivers of inflation and a means of taking a billion euros out of people's pockets. He advocates easing the tax burden on working individuals, restoring tax benefits for families with children, and preserving the tax exemption for land beneath one's home. Economic policy should focus on restoring competitiveness and supporting low-income individuals and families.
8 Speeches Analyzed
Social Issues
The primary social focus is on eradicating poverty, supporting young families, and improving the demographic situation (specifically to prevent people of childbearing age from leaving Estonia). There is a demand for a review of social policy, including the subsistence minimum, and for linking pensions to the cost of living. Furthermore, concerns are being raised regarding the potential increase in crime and reputational damage associated with the transfer of Swedish prisoners.
8 Speeches Analyzed
Legislative Focus
The speaker's focus is on opposing the government's tax laws and demanding the reform of social policy. Specific priorities include restoring tax benefits for families with children and raising the subsistence level. The main action is submitting a formal inquiry to the Prime Minister regarding issues of poverty and livelihood.
8 Speeches Analyzed