Session Profile: Kristina Šmigun-Vähi
Fifteenth Riigikogu, Third Session, Plenary Session
2024-06-13
Political Position
The political focus is on improving Estonia's image and competitiveness in the eyes of foreign investors. The speaker expresses strong criticism regarding the current situation, where the promises of the e-state (such as rapid account opening) do not match reality. The position is results-oriented, demanding concrete changes to simplify doing business and reduce bureaucracy.
2 Speeches Analyzed
Topic Expertise
The speaker demonstrates expertise on the topics of foreign investments, banking accessibility, and the international reputation of Estonia's e-state. They draw upon practical experience and feedback from foreign representatives, emphasizing the negative impact bureaucracy has on the investment climate.
2 Speeches Analyzed
Rhetorical Style
The rhetorical style is one of concern and directness, emphasizing the seriousness of the problem and the economic damage caused by bureaucracy. The speaker uses a formal address (Esteemed President/Chairman) and supports their logical argument with a specific example drawn from a foreign visit and feedback received from investment consultants.
2 Speeches Analyzed
Activity Patterns
The speaker’s pattern of activity includes engaging with foreign economic representatives (a visit to Norway) and actively pursuing inquiries during the Riigikogu session. They consecutively put the same question to both the President of the Bank of Estonia and the head of the Financial Supervision Authority, demonstrating clear focus and consistency in addressing the issue.
2 Speeches Analyzed
Opposition Stance
The criticism is directed at systemic shortcomings and bureaucracy, which impedes foreign investment and violates the promises of the digital state. The opposition is policy-based, criticizing the inefficiency of the actions taken by the state and financial institutions, rather than targeting specific political opponents.
2 Speeches Analyzed
Collaboration Style
The speaker demonstrates a willingness to cooperate, citing the encouragement of the President of the Bank of Estonia to put the same question to the head of the Financial Supervision Authority. This suggests a desire to resolve the problem through inter-institutional dialogue and adhere to the officials' recommendations.
2 Speeches Analyzed
Regional Focus
The focus is on international relations and Estonia's image abroad, particularly regarding the attraction of foreign investments. A specific visit to Norway and a meeting with an Estonian foreign representative are mentioned, which underscores the necessity of improving services for foreign companies.
2 Speeches Analyzed
Economic Views
The position strongly supports the promotion of foreign investment and economic growth, emphasizing the need to reduce regulatory burdens and bureaucracy. It considers the preservation of Estonia's competitive advantage (rapid administrative processing) and the serving of business interests to be essential.
2 Speeches Analyzed
Social Issues
There is not enough data.
2 Speeches Analyzed
Legislative Focus
The legislative focus is on removing regulatory obstacles concerning the opening of bank accounts for foreign companies. The priority is changing policy to improve the ease and speed of doing business in Estonia, thereby preventing investors from withdrawing.
2 Speeches Analyzed