Agenda Profile: Margit Sutrop
First reading of the Draft Act (192 SE) on Amendments to the Research and Development Organisation Act.
2024-02-07
15th Riigikogu, 3rd sitting, plenary sitting.
Political Position
The political stance supports sufficient funding for national sciences and their definition at the legal level, deeming the raising of this issue appropriate. However, the speaker strongly criticizes the rhetoric used by the bill's initiators regarding the disparagement and slander of universities, demanding that evidence be presented for claims about "diploma laundering." The focus is policy-driven, centering on the specifics of the science funding system and the necessity of better aligning scientific research with societal needs.
3 Speeches Analyzed
Topic Expertise
The speaker demonstrates a thorough knowledge of the legislation governing the organization of research and development (TAIKS) and its funding mechanisms. Specific data is presented, such as the 5% share of base funding allocated to national studies and the success rate of competitive funding in the humanities (every 11th grant is awarded). Problems related to the evaluation of scientific monographs and the fulfillment of doctoral education objectives are also highlighted.
3 Speeches Analyzed
Rhetorical Style
The rhetorical style is predominantly formal and procedural, particularly in the detailed reporting of the Culture Committee's discussion, where the viewpoints of various parties are presented neutrally. In direct interventions, the tone is critical regarding the opposing side's defamatory claims, demanding supporting data for them, but generally adhering to a logical and fact-based approach.
3 Speeches Analyzed
Activity Patterns
The main documented activity is the detailed reporting of the Culture Committee session (September 18, 2023) to the Riigikogu Plenary Assembly. The speaker was consensually designated as the representative of the leading committee for the discussion of the draft bill. The pattern of activity indicates a focus on the legislative process and committee work.
3 Speeches Analyzed
Opposition Stance
The confrontation is directed against the initiators of the draft bill (EKRE), criticizing their rhetoric regarding the slandering of universities. The criticism focuses on the procedure and ethical conduct, demanding the presentation of evidence to support the claims of "diploma laundering." At the same time, the validity of the opposing side's framing of the issue concerning the funding of national sciences is acknowledged.
3 Speeches Analyzed
Collaboration Style
The speaker serves as a mediator and rapporteur, neutrally presenting the committee discussion, which included ministry representatives and members of various factions. A willingness was demonstrated to constructively discuss the issues of research funding and find solutions within the framework of the new TAIKS, for example, concerning the establishment of individual grants.
3 Speeches Analyzed
Regional Focus
The focus is on the national level, addressing the organization of Estonian research and development, the role of universities, and the funding of national studies. The situation of Estonian centers operating in foreign universities is also mentioned, referencing the situation in Hungary, but the overall focus is on domestic science policy.
3 Speeches Analyzed
Economic Views
Economic perspectives focus on state budgetary funding for science, supporting the provision of sufficient and stable financing for national research. Emphasis is placed on the necessity of ensuring a balance between core funding and competition-based financing, as well as conducting an audit regarding the utilization of research funds. Support is also given to linking science financing with the needs of Estonian society.
3 Speeches Analyzed
Social Issues
The discussion of social issues addresses the field of education and science, highlighting the significance of national studies and the necessity of increasing funding for the humanities. A concern is also raised regarding the achievement of doctoral program objectives, given that Estonian society requires more PhD students than are currently being educated.
3 Speeches Analyzed
Legislative Focus
The legislative focus is on the draft amendment to the Organization of Research and Development Act (192 SE), the purpose of which was the definition and funding of national sciences. The speaker is acting as a representative of the leading committee, who supports addressing the topic, but announces the committee's decision to reject the draft bill, hoping to regulate the issue within the framework of a new TAIKS (Organization of Research and Development Act) draft bill.
3 Speeches Analyzed