Agenda Profile: Margit Sutrop
Draft Law on the Organisation of Research and Development Activities and Innovation (554 SE) - Second Reading
2025-06-12
15th Riigikogu, 5th session, plenary sitting
Political Position
The central theme is the reform of the national governance of research, development, and innovation (RDI), regarding which strong support and a desire for swift adoption have been expressed. The position is policy-driven, emphasizing the necessity of stable funding, the regulation of research ethics, and inter-ministerial coordination channeled through the Ministry of Education and Research. It is crucial to guarantee the autonomy of research institutions and academic freedom while simultaneously avoiding over-regulation.
2 Speeches Analyzed
Topic Expertise
The speaker demonstrates profound expertise in the organization of research and development, funding models, and the field of research ethics. Specific terms such as the "Frascati Manual," "research integrity," and "authorizing norm" are utilized, and the philosophical and practical significance of definitions (e.g., the concept of a scientist) is emphasized. This expertise is also evident in the details, for instance, when explaining the division of research ethics into research ethics proper and professional ethics.
2 Speeches Analyzed
Rhetorical Style
The style is formal, thorough, and procedural, focusing on the detailed reporting of the work conducted by the Culture Committee and the engagement of interest groups. The rhetoric is predominantly logical and analytical, utilizing references to session dates, consensus, and the substance of proposed amendments, rather than emotional appeals. The tone is explanatory and summarizing, aiming to demonstrate the thoroughness of the bill's preparation and its broad-based support.
2 Speeches Analyzed
Activity Patterns
The course of action has been intensive and comprehensive, encompassing multiple committee sessions (e.g., March 18, April 22, June 3) and broad consultations involving 22 interest groups. Emphasis is placed on the long-term nature of the proceedings, which commenced during the tenure of the previous composition of the Riigikogu. The communication style involves detailed reporting, clarifying the rationale behind each amendment and the input provided by the interest groups.
2 Speeches Analyzed
Opposition Stance
Direct political opposition is not being criticized; instead, the focus is on addressing concerns raised by interest groups (such as universities) regarding excessive state intervention and the restriction of autonomy. These concerns were resolved through compromises and amendments, for instance, the minister’s authority to regulate the rights of stakeholders in the field of research ethics via a regulation was removed. Attention was also paid to the vulnerability of funding for small research institutions.
2 Speeches Analyzed
Collaboration Style
The cooperation style is highly inclusive and compromise-oriented, emphasizing broad consultation with 22 stakeholders, including universities, the Academy of Sciences, and the Chamber of Commerce and Industry. Decisions within the committee were adopted by consensus, including the schedule for completing the second reading of the draft bill and the final vote. Compromises were actively sought in the defense of academic freedom and institutional autonomy.
2 Speeches Analyzed
Regional Focus
Not enough data
2 Speeches Analyzed
Economic Views
The economic perspectives center on stable and predictable funding for research and development (R&D), specifically referencing the 1% agreement and the allocation of resources among ministries. Emphasis is placed on the necessity of ensuring the sustainability and stability of small research institutions (e.g., KBFI) through targeted grants. The overall objective is to guarantee transparency in funding and prevent political influence during the selection process for research grants.
2 Speeches Analyzed
Social Issues
The primary social issue revolves around research ethics and academic freedom, highlighting the necessity of establishing a research ethics committee and a procedural commission to handle cases of misconduct. The autonomy of research institutions and academic freedom are vigorously protected against excessive state interference, based on the belief that ethical rules should arise from field-specific agreements rather than being mandated by law.
2 Speeches Analyzed
Legislative Focus
The legislative focus is entirely on the Draft Act on the Organization of Research and Development and Innovation (TAIKS, 554 SE), which the speaker, as a representative of the leading committee, is supporting. Priorities included clarifying the definitions of 'scientist' and 'research ethics,' ensuring transparency in funding, and assigning inter-ministerial coordination to the Ministry of Education and Research. The objective is to conclude the bill’s second reading and swiftly bring it to a final vote.
2 Speeches Analyzed