Agenda Profile: Margit Sutrop
First reading of the Draft Resolution (365 OE) of the Riigikogu concerning the resolution titled "Making a Proposal to the Government of the Republic to Eliminate the Russian-Language Versions of the Websites of Ministries and Other Government Agencies."
2024-04-10
15th Estonian Parliament, 3rd session, plenary session
Political Position
The most crucial issue is the establishment of an Estonian-language public sphere and boosting the prestige of the Estonian language, an effort that receives strong support. However, there is opposition to the categorical approach taken by Bill 365 OE regarding the elimination of Russian-language ministry websites, which is deemed unnecessary. A needs-based and pragmatic approach to information dissemination is preferred, particularly during crisis situations, while simultaneously stressing a value-based perspective on the dignity of the official state language.
2 Speeches Analyzed
Topic Expertise
The speaker establishes authority in the fields of communication science and information behavior, citing their personal educational background and consultations with researchers at the University of Tartu. Emphasis is placed on the necessity of continuous monitoring to understand where people source information and what specific data they trust, particularly within the context of crises. Specific terminology, such as "misinformation," is employed, and the role of platforms (TikTok, Google) in information acquisition is referenced.
2 Speeches Analyzed
Rhetorical Style
The style is analytical and measured, seeking a common value foundation (the protection of the Estonian language) while simultaneously criticizing the methods proposed by the opposing party. It employs logical argumentation and references to a science-based approach (communication science, the necessity of monitoring), maintaining a formal and professional tone. The aim is to guide the debate toward a more substantive and pragmatic level, avoiding emotional appeals.
2 Speeches Analyzed
Activity Patterns
The speaker referenced internal discussions and meetings with guests held by the Reform Party faction over the past few months, including Külliki Seppel and communication scientists from the University of Tartu. This demonstrates a pattern where policy formulation is supported by engaging experts and scientists, and thorough preparation is prioritized. Three minutes of additional time were also requested to continue the address.
2 Speeches Analyzed
Opposition Stance
The opposition is directed at the initiators of the bill (EKRE) and their categorical demand to shut down Russian-language websites. The criticism targets the methods proposed in the bill, which are deemed unnecessary and pointless, as the bill fails to account for the needs of crisis communication and the actual flow of information. At the same time, the importance of the opposing side's goal (valuing the Estonian language) is acknowledged.
2 Speeches Analyzed
Collaboration Style
The speaker demonstrates a willingness to compromise, stressing that the bill's initiator agreed in the committee to adopt a needs-based approach and acknowledged that amending the law was unnecessary. Collaboration is also deemed necessary, specifically involving scientists and the Government Office, to monitor information and identify substantive solutions. It is considered significant that the debate prompted the ministries to question the sensibility of translation practices.
2 Speeches Analyzed
Regional Focus
The focus is strictly national, centering on the communication strategy of the Estonian state, the activities of ministries, and the creation of an Estonian-language public sphere at the national level. There are no references to specific regional or international topics, with the exception of a reference to the Chinese-controlled TikTok.
2 Speeches Analyzed
Economic Views
Insufficient data.
2 Speeches Analyzed
Social Issues
The primary social issue is the valuing and acquisition of the Estonian language, especially in the context of transitioning to Estonian-language education. Also crucial is informing citizens and preventing the spread of misinformation, particularly during crisis situations, emphasizing that the state needs to know where people are getting reliable information.
2 Speeches Analyzed
Legislative Focus
The speaker opposes Draft Law 365 OE, which concerns the elimination of Russian-language websites, deeming the adoption of the legislation pointless. They favor administrative solutions and substantive research (monitoring) within the framework of existing laws to improve communication, rather than the creation of new legislation.
2 Speeches Analyzed