Session Profile: Riina Solman
15th Riigikogu, 5th session, plenary sitting
2025-06-11
Political Position
The political focus centers on the timing of the legislative process for the end-of-life declaration bill and its potential consequences. The speaker stresses that comprehensive palliative care must be accessible and its action plan adopted before any steps are taken to regulate issues concerning the termination of life. This stance is value-based, emphasizing the ultimate value of life and demanding maximum caution to avoid the slippery slope toward euthanasia.
3 Speeches Analyzed
Topic Expertise
The speaker demonstrates expertise in palliative care, bioethics, and legislative procedures, referencing the lack of action plans from the Ministry of Social Affairs and the nuances of the draft bill. They utilize technical terminology such as "palliative care," "euthanasia," and "assisted suicide," and rely on the viewpoints of the medical community, legal experts (the representative of the Chancellor of Justice), and the bioethics council. Oncologist Tiina Tasmuth and Philippe Jourdan, the Bishop of the Estonian Catholic Church, are quoted.
3 Speeches Analyzed
Rhetorical Style
The rhetorical style is serious, cautious, and concerned, emphasizing ethical responsibility and the need for maximum prudence ("doubt in the heart"). It utilizes both logical arguments (procedural order, international examples) and emotional appeals (the fear of becoming a burden on the elderly). The style is formal and addresses both those present in the hall and those following via the internet.
3 Speeches Analyzed
Activity Patterns
The speaker has actively participated in the discussions of the Social Affairs Committee over the last year, asking supplementary questions and receiving expert assessments. They have repeatedly presented their views from the Riigikogu podium and monitor relevant media programs.
3 Speeches Analyzed
Opposition Stance
The criticism is aimed at the bill's proponents regarding the poor legislative timing, as the declaration concerning end-of-life wishes reached the floor before the action plan for palliative care. Strong opposition is also voiced regarding the Supreme Court's decision in the Paul Tammert case, which established a precedent for assisted dying. The opposition is primarily procedural and value-based, not personal.
3 Speeches Analyzed
Collaboration Style
He/She supports the opinion of colleague Priit Sibul concerning the title of the draft bill. He/She notes that the Social Affairs Committee has heard all participants and experts, demonstrating an openness to listening to various viewpoints, although he/she personally remains cautious regarding the bill itself.
3 Speeches Analyzed
Regional Focus
The focus is on national legislation and ethical standards pertaining to the entire Estonian healthcare system. International examples (Belgium, the Netherlands, Canada) are utilized as cautionary scenarios to underscore the global sensitivity of the issue.
3 Speeches Analyzed
Economic Views
Economic considerations relate to the financial needs of the healthcare sector. It is noted that potential savings were mentioned during the discussions of the bill, but it is emphasized that the money saved should be used to improve other treatment options.
3 Speeches Analyzed
Social Issues
The primary social focus is on the value of life and the care of the dying, demanding access for everyone to holistic palliative care supported by comprehensive psychosocial, spiritual, and mental assistance. The speaker firmly opposes euthanasia and assisted suicide and expresses concern that the draft bill could make older people feel they are a burden on society.
3 Speeches Analyzed
Legislative Focus
The legislative priority is the "End-of-Life Directive" bill, which is being approached with caution. The speaker is acting as a conditional opponent to the bill, demanding the adoption of national guidelines and an action plan for palliative care before the final passage of the directive bill.
3 Speeches Analyzed