Session Profile: Margit Sutrop
15th Riigikogu, 5th session, plenary session
2025-06-18
Political Position
The speaker, representing the Estonian Reform Party, strongly supports the bill aimed at protecting an individual's free will, freedom of choice, and autonomy when making end-of-life decisions. This position is clearly value-based, emphasizing dignity and freedom, and stressing the importance of recognizing the limitations of medical science. Furthermore, the speaker expressed interest in the public disclosure of the results concerning the organization of education and the certification of school principals.
3 Speeches Analyzed
Topic Expertise
The speaker demonstrates a high level of expertise in the field of medical ethics and healthcare law, particularly concerning patient declarations of will and the termination of futile treatment. They employ specific terminology (e.g., informed consent, the Law of Obligations Act, advance directives) and clearly distinguish the draft bill under consideration from euthanasia and assisted suicide. Furthermore, the speaker is familiar with regulations in the education sector, referencing discussions held by the Cultural Affairs Committee.
3 Speeches Analyzed
Rhetorical Style
The style is formal, serious, and highly persuasive, centering on ethical and logical arguments while emphasizing the importance of dignified death and the prevention of suffering. The speaker highlights the meticulous preparation of the draft legislation and the involvement of experts, utilizing a strictly analytical approach. Furthermore, the speaker addresses the listeners directly and requests an extension of time for the vote, a move that clearly signals passionate commitment to the cause.
3 Speeches Analyzed
Activity Patterns
The speaker is actively involved in the legislative process, participating in the work of various committees (the Culture Committee, the Social Affairs Committee) as well as in plenary debates. He/She mentioned recent meetings with hospital directors, members of ethics committees, and representatives from the Faculty of Medicine at the University of Tartu, demonstrating regular engagement with key stakeholders.
3 Speeches Analyzed
Opposition Stance
There is no direct criticism of opponents. The speaker mentions religious considerations but notes that even the council of churches has approved the bill, thereby neutralizing any potential opposition. He is rather focused on distinguishing the bill from controversial topics (euthanasia, assisted suicide).
3 Speeches Analyzed
Collaboration Style
The speaker stressed the broad cooperation and consultation undertaken with various parties, including stakeholders, experts, the Council of Churches, and the Association of Doctors. He also mentioned the thorough deliberation conducted by the parliamentary faction and the Social Affairs Committee, which demonstrates internal and specialized collaboration. He concluded by thanking all contributors, indicating an appreciative style of cooperation.
3 Speeches Analyzed
Regional Focus
The focus is on national systemic issues, specifically concerning healthcare and education. There is no specific regional or local emphasis, although the Faculty of Medicine at the University of Tartu is mentioned in connection with training needs.
3 Speeches Analyzed
Economic Views
Economic considerations are linked to healthcare expenditures; the speaker notes that ceasing futile treatment leads to resource savings (specifically, healthcare resources). However, it is stressed that the primary objective of the bill is not resource conservation, but the prevention of suffering.
3 Speeches Analyzed
Social Issues
The speaker heavily focuses on social issues pertaining to human dignity and civil liberties, particularly in the context of end-of-life decision-making. They stress the patient's right to informed consent and the ability to express their wishes while receiving medical advice. Furthermore, the discussion touches upon the public disclosure of the results of school principals' certification within the education sector.
3 Speeches Analyzed
Legislative Focus
The primary legislative priority is supporting and passing the bill that regulates a patient's end-of-life declaration of intent. The speaker is a strong proponent of the bill, stressing that it enforces rights already enshrined in the Law of Obligations Act and provides physicians with the confidence to apply it. Furthermore, regulations within the education sector are a focus, where the speaker is seeking clarification on the procedure for disclosing the results of professional certification.
3 Speeches Analyzed