By Agendas: Margit Sutrop

Total Agendas: 48

Fully Profiled: 48

All Categories Political Position Topic Expertise Rhetorical Style Activity Patterns Opposition Stance Collaboration Style Regional Focus Economic Views Social Issues Legislative Focus

2025-10-09

Discussion of the Crucial National Issue 'The Future of the Estonian Economy'

15th Riigikogu, 6th Session, Plenary Sitting

There is not enough data.

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2025-10-07

First Reading of the 2026 State Budget Bill (737 SE)

The 15th Riigikogu, 6th Session, Plenary Sitting

The speaker is opposing the future policy outlined in the RES regarding the planned cut to higher education funding in 2027. The criticism is policy-driven, stemming from the fear that this move could force universities to impose tuition fees that students simply won't be able to afford. There is no direct personal criticism; the focus remains strictly on the budget shortfalls.

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2025-06-18

Draft law amending the Health Services Organisation Act, the Unemployment Insurance Act, and other related acts, and amending the Disability Support Act (604 SE) – third reading

15th Riigikogu, 5th session, plenary session

Opponents are not directly criticized; instead, considerations that may be controversial (e.g., religious considerations) are addressed, while noting that the Council of Churches has approved the bill. The criticism is directed instead at the previous uncertainty among doctors regarding the implementation of the law, a problem for which the draft offers a solution.

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2025-06-18

Draft law amending the Basic Education and Upper Secondary Education Act and the Vocational Education Institutions Act (director certification and teacher career model) (653 SE) - first reading

15th Riigikogu, 5th session, plenary session

Insufficient data.

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2025-06-12

Draft Law on the Organisation of Research and Development Activities and Innovation (554 SE) - Second Reading

15th Riigikogu, 5th session, plenary sitting

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.

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2025-06-12

Second reading of the draft law amending the Health Services Organisation Act, the Unemployment Insurance Act, and other related acts, as well as amending the Act on Support for Working Capacity (604 SE)

15th Riigikogu, 5th session, plenary sitting

There is no direct confrontation; the speaker is instead addressing questions that have arisen concerning the bill's title and substance (e.g., 'patient's testament' versus 'declaration of intent'), offering explanations. He refers to Priit Sibul's earlier remarks, but primarily uses them to affirm the content of the draft legislation.

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2025-06-10

The Chairman of the Supreme Court’s overview of court orders, the administration of justice, and the uniform application of laws.

15th Riigikogu, 5th session, plenary sitting.

The direct opponent is not criticized, but the speaker expresses strong criticism regarding the system's inability to solve recurring problems in legal education and the training of judges. The criticism is aimed at the lack of procedural adherence and effectiveness.

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2025-05-15

The Minister of Education and Research's 2025 presentation on the implementation of the state's long-term development strategy "Estonia 2035"

15th Riigikogu, 5th session, plenary session

Direct political opposition is not voiced, but reference is made to the criticism by academician Jaak Aaviksoo that funding in higher education has been generally misallocated. The speaker distances themselves from the sharpness of this criticism, focusing instead on a constructive political solution. The criticism is aimed more at the existing system and the logic behind its financing.

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2025-05-13

Draft law amending the Basic Education Act, the Education Act of the Republic of Estonia, and other laws related thereto (establishing the obligation to attend school) – First Reading

15th Riigikogu, 5th sitting, plenary session

There is no confrontation. The criticism is directed primarily at the procedural justification and timing of the legal amendment, rather than at specific opponents or political groups.

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2025-05-13

Draft law amending the Courts Act and, in consequence thereof, amending other laws (to improve the administration of courts) – first reading

15th Riigikogu, 5th sitting, plenary session

No data available

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2025-04-23

Draft law amending the Health Services Organisation Act (advance directive of a patient’s end-of-life will) – first reading (604 SE)

15th Riigikogu, 5th session, plenary session

Direct political opposition is not being criticized; the primary challenge is historical medical paternalism, where doctors have been trained to preserve life, which makes it difficult for them to discontinue futile treatment. Efforts are also being made to resolve situations where doctors struggle to make decisions due to conflicts among the patient's relatives.

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2025-04-22

The Minister of Culture's 2025 presentation on the implementation of the state's long-term development strategy "Estonia 2035" (including the implementation of "The Fundamentals of Estonian Sports Policy until 2030")

15th Riigikogu, 5th session, plenary sitting

There is no direct confrontation; the speaker poses a strategic question to the Minister, which demands clarification regarding the priorities for managing AI threats and opportunities within the Ministry of Culture. The criticism is aimed at the lack of strategic clarity.

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2025-04-10

The Chancellor of Justice's proposal to align the Motor Vehicle Tax Act and the Road Traffic Act with the Basic Law.

15th Riigikogu, 5th session, plenary session

The criticism is directed against the previous legislative process and the providers of technical solutions. Specifically, the Estonian Tax and Customs Board (EMTA) is criticized for deeming monthly payments too complicated and costly, even though that approach would have solved the current problems. The criticism is procedural and policy-based.

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2025-03-11

The Prime Minister's address for 2025 on the implementation of the long-term development strategy "Estonia 2035" (including an overview of the situation of research and development activities and the government's policy in this area).

15th Riigikogu, 5th session, plenary session

There is strong opposition aimed at political interventions that restrict academic freedom, warning specifically against limiting the autonomy of science, citing the examples set by the EKREIKE government and Donald Trump. Criticism is also leveled against the bureaucracy that impedes medium-sized AI projects, as well as the poor quality and fragmented organization of research funding distributed via ministries.

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2025-02-26

Draft Law on the Organisation of Research and Development and Innovation (554 SE) - First Reading

15th Riigikogu, 5th session, plenary session

The criticism is aimed at potential future political actors who might attempt to steer research grants towards inappropriate topics, as well as the inter-ministerial conflict regarding the establishment of standards for distributing research funding. The Ministry of Finance is also criticized for its failure to develop a system for measuring research expenditures, alongside the obstacles created by the Data Protection Inspectorate in the formulation of data-driven policy.

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2025-02-20

Discussion of the nationally important issue "Plan for the Future of Sport: How to Bring Medals and Get Children Moving"

15th Riigikogu, 5th sitting, plenary session.

Direct opposition to the EOC president is not expressed; instead, there is agreement on the general areas of concern. The criticism is aimed at the deficiencies of the report, particularly regarding the assertion that scientific data is lacking, while ignoring award-winning programs. The critique is primarily procedural and focuses on the underestimation of existing resources.

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2025-02-11

A debate on foreign policy initiated as a matter of significant national importance by the Foreign Affairs Committee.

15th Riigikogu, 5th session, plenary sitting

The confrontation targets the government's foreign policy actions, which are criticized for damaging relations with Israel. The criticism is policy-driven, focusing on the uncertain position taken in the international conflict and the sending of "conflicting signals."

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2025-01-22

Draft law amending the Estonian Academy of Sciences Act (514 SE) – Second Reading

15th Estonian Parliament, 5th session, plenary session.

No opposition is being voiced, nor is any group being criticized; on the contrary, the preparation of the bill went "very smoothly," according to the speaker. The amendment was adopted by the Culture Committee by consensus, which points to a lack of confrontation.

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2024-12-18

Draft law amending the Medicinal Products Act (hospital pharmacy) – first reading

15th Riigikogu, 4th session, plenary sitting

There is not enough data.

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2024-12-11

Third reading of the Basic Education Act bill (419 SE)

15th Riigikogu, 4th session, plenary session

Criticism is directed at those who engage in "confrontation and mutual accusation" and wish to "separatistically form groups." The opposition is politically and ideologically justified, as these activities hinder the full implementation of the Estonian-language learning and growth environment. The speaker rejects any attempt to retreat from or avoid the reform.

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2024-12-05

Draft law amending the Citizenship Act (522 SE) – First Reading

15th Estonian Parliament, 4th session, plenary session.

The objection is directed at the procedural side of the bill’s sponsor’s actions, questioning the justification for repeated submissions. The criticism is indirect and focuses on the consistency of the legislative process, rather than the content of the draft bill itself.

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2024-12-05

Second reading of the Basic Education Act bill (419 SE)

15th Estonian Parliament, 4th session, plenary sitting

The primary opposition is directed at the amendment proposals put forward by the Isamaa faction, particularly those concerning the preferential treatment of Estonian-speaking children when forming groups. The criticism leveled against them is grounded in both policy and constitutional law, arguing that such a proposal would result in segregation and discrimination based on language, which is fundamentally contrary to the constitution. The speaker firmly rejects these proposals, citing the committee's voting results (2 in favour, 6 against).

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2024-11-21

Draft law (447 SE) for amending the Education Act of the Republic of Estonia and amending other laws accordingly (establishing compulsory schooling) – Second Reading

15th Riigikogu, 4th session, plenary sitting

There is no direct criticism of opponents; the focus is rather on systemic shortcomings and risks (e.g., the lack of qualified teachers, inadequate curricula, financial risks). Criticism is aimed at the education system's current "skewed" orientation, where gymnasium is prioritized, and at the lack of self-confidence among young people.

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2024-11-20

Draft law amending the Constitution of the Republic of Estonia (527 SE) – first reading

15th Riigikogu, 4th session, plenary sitting

The criticism is aimed at factual errors presented by the opposing side (Isamaa) regarding the categories of eligible voters, which are deemed misleading and "threatening." The criticism is substantive and moderate, intended to correct the narrative, not to personally attack the opponent.

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2024-11-20

Draft law amending the Constitution of the Republic of Estonia (536 SE) – first reading

15th Riigikogu, 4th session, plenary sitting

There is no criticism, as the speaker stresses that this is about the country's self-defense, not about accusing or suspecting anyone.

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2024-11-14

Draft law amending the Estonian Academy of Sciences Act (514 SE) – first reading

15th Estonian Parliament, 4th session, plenary session

There is no opposition to this specific draft bill, as the committee’s decision was unanimous and the Government of the Republic supported it. The criticism is indirect, aimed instead at the delay in broader science policy decisions, particularly concerning the Act on the Organization of Research and Development and Innovation. We are not expressing confrontation, but rather regret regarding the lack of decisive action.

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2024-09-19

First Reading of the Draft Act on the Amendment of the Adult Education Act and Related Amendments to Other Acts (465 SE)

15th Estonian Parliament, 4th sitting, plenary session

Data is scarce.

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2024-09-11

Minister of Defence's 2024 Report on the Implementation of the State's Long-Term Development Strategy "Estonia 2035"

Fifteenth Riigikogu, fourth session, plenary session

No opposition is voiced; the speaker instead commends the minister and poses clarifying questions regarding the government's activities in developing the defense industry.

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2024-06-11

First Reading of the Riigikogu Draft Statement "On the Crisis of Democracy in Georgia" (449 AE)

15th Riigikogu, 3rd sitting, plenary session.

Insufficient data.

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2024-06-10

First Reading of the Draft Act on the 2024 Supplementary Budget (456 SE)

15th Riigikogu, 3rd sitting, plenary session

The criticism is aimed at the actions of the Ministry of Finance and the government, particularly concerning the accounting methodology used for R&D expenditures. The opposition is rooted in policy and procedure, accusing the ministry of including costs that merely support research in order to show a larger allocation, which in reality is far short of the agreed-upon commitment.

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2024-05-30

Discussion of the nationally important issue: "How can the state avoid living in debt?"

15th Riigikogu, 3rd sitting, plenary sitting

Insufficient data

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2024-05-14

First Reading of the Draft Basic Education Act (419 SE)

15th Riigikogu, 3rd sitting, plenary session

The direct opposition is not criticized, but [the subject] responds to an indirect allusion made by Tõnis Lukas (a colleague) concerning the Reform Party's inadequate grasp of the importance of fundamental education. It neutrally reports the criticism voiced by Anti Poolamets and Eeva Holm regarding the transition to Estonian-language education and multiculturalism, yet supports the explanations provided by the Ministry of Education.

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2024-05-07

Second Reading of the Draft Act Amending the 2024 State Budget Act (389 SE)

15th Riigikogu, 3rd session, plenary session

Strong criticism has been directed against the previous government (specifically Jüri Ratas's government before the last one, initiated by the Isamaa party). They are accused of implementing the progressive income tax, or the so-called "tax hump" (maksuküür), which allegedly "robs teachers of money." The criticism is intensely political, labeling this system a historical injustice. Additionally, the City of Tallinn is criticized for the improper use of the differentiation fund.

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2024-05-07

First Reading of the Draft Resolution (410 OE) of the Riigikogu titled "Making a Proposal to the Government of the Republic to Find a Solution for the Construction of an Extension to the National Opera Estonia"

15th Riigikogu, 3rd session, plenary session

The speaker does not directly criticize any group, but identifies the National Heritage Board (Muinsuskaitseamet) as the main source of regulatory obstruction, which "does not permit a large extension to the Estonia [building/theater]." The opposition is policy- and procedure-based, not personal, and the goal is to explain the nature of the problem.

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2024-04-18

Discussion of the matter of significant national importance, initiated by the Environmental Committee, titled "The necessity and possibilities of introducing nuclear energy in Estonia"

15th Riigikogu, 3rd session, plenary sitting

None. The speaker is submitting a clarifying question to the Environment Committee concerning the prioritization of security, but is neither directly criticizing the opposing side nor taking a stand against specific groups.

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2024-04-16

The Minister of Culture's 2024 Report on the Implementation of the State's Long-Term Development Strategy "Estonia 2035" (including the implementation of the "Estonian Sports Policy Fundamentals until 2030")

15th Riigikogu, 3rd sitting, plenary session

There is no direct opposition to any specific politician or group; the criticism is aimed at the current structure of research funding, where the proportion allocated to the humanities is too small compared to other scientific disciplines.

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2024-04-10

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."

15th Estonian Parliament, 3rd session, plenary session

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.

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2024-04-10

First Reading of the Draft Resolution of the Riigikogu "Making a Proposal to the Government of the Republic to Initiate Drafts of Legal Acts Ensuring the Clarity and Predictability of the Development of the School Network" (285 OE)

15th Estonian Parliament, 3rd session, plenary session

Opposition criticism is divided into two parts: procedural criticism directed at EKRE for submitting 50 conflicting amendments, which caused a long-term delay in the proceedings. Substantive criticism is aimed at the draft bill (285 OE) due to its financial impact and conflict of objectives, such as leaving the obligation to finance private schools with local governments.

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2024-03-19

The 2024 Report by the Minister of Health on the implementation of the state's long-term development strategy "Estonia 2035"

15th Riigikogu, 3rd session, plenary session

The criticism is aimed at the government's failure to act regarding healthcare accessibility and the shortage of personnel. This criticism is based on both policy and performance, highlighting that the service falls short of public expectations.

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2024-03-12

First Reading of the Draft Act amending the State Budget Act (391 SE)

15th Riigikogu, 3rd plenary sitting

There is not enough data.

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2024-03-07

Debate on the matter of national importance, "The Future of Estonian Energy 2035," initiated by the Estonian Reform Party parliamentary group.

Fifteenth Riigikogu, third sitting, plenary session

No criticism or opposition is voiced towards specific political groups. The focus is on finding solutions and seeking information from the minister, rather than attacking.

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2024-03-05

2024 Report by the Minister of Education and Research on the Implementation of the State's Long-Term Development Strategy "Eesti 2035" (Education Reforms)

15th Estonian Parliament, 3rd sitting, plenary session

The speaker criticizes the solution proposed by the Minister of Education and Research (extending the study period), questioning its sufficiency ("Will this alone save the day?"). The criticism is policy-based, emphasizing the need to address root causes, such as the shortage of mathematics teachers and students' low mathematical proficiency.

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2024-02-13

Debate on Foreign Policy as an Issue of Significant National Importance, initiated by the Foreign Affairs Committee

15th Estonian Parliament, 3rd session, plenary session

The primary confrontation is focused on the actions of foreign states: specifically, the initiation of a criminal case by the Russian Ministry of Internal Affairs and China’s covert collaboration with Russia. The first speaker also indirectly criticizes the government's failure to provide clear strategic direction to businesses, which has led to financial losses.

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2024-02-07

First reading of the Draft Act (192 SE) on Amendments to the Research and Development Organisation Act.

15th Riigikogu, 3rd sitting, plenary sitting.

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.

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2024-02-07

First Reading of the Draft Act Amending the Study Allowances and Study Loans Act (288 SE)

15th Riigikogu, 3rd sitting, plenary sitting.

S2’s opposition is directed at the draft bill (288 SE) submitted by the EKRE faction, criticizing it both substantively (as a violation of the principle of equal treatment) and procedurally (due to multiple topics being addressed simultaneously and the lack of an impact analysis). S2 references the government’s position, which does not support the bill, and highlights concerns regarding the non-purposeful use of loans and the liabilities that would ultimately fall upon the state. S1, by contrast, primarily opposes the state’s current interest rate policy, calling it unfair and overly burdensome.

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2024-02-07

First reading of the Draft Act on Amendments to the Higher Education Act (291 SE)

15th Riigikogu, 3rd sitting, plenary sitting.

The main opponent is the Estonian Conservative People's Party (EKRE), whose proposed bill and the diagnostics underpinning it are sharply rejected. The criticism is political and data-driven, accusing EKRE of drawing an arbitrary connection between internationalization and a decline in quality, a connection that is not substantiated by data.

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2024-01-23

Overview of the state of Research and Development and government policy in this field.

15th Riigikogu, 3rd sitting, plenary session

The criticism is directed at the political decision made by the Ministry of Economic Affairs and Communications (MKM) to establish an applied research center based on Metrosert, a move that jeopardizes the human resources of universities. Furthermore, the speaker expresses a differing opinion from the President of the Academy of Sciences regarding the selection of the scientific ethics code, favoring the Estonian Code of Good Scientific Practice over the ALLEA code. The criticism is rooted in policy and procedure.

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2024-01-18

Debate on the National Issue of Crucial Importance: "Strong Rural Schools and a Strong School Network"

15th Riigikogu, 3rd sitting, plenary session

The criticism is directed at those who ignore reality (low birth rate, urbanization) and attempt to preserve permanent values at the expense of change ("they shouldn't be doing this while ignoring the facts"). Current ineffective solutions to the teacher salary problem are also criticized, noting that a 33-euro raise won't solve the issue; the real concern is the workload.

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