Session Profile: Kristina Šmigun-Vähi

The political emphasis is placed on improving children's mental and physical health, requiring the Ministry of Education and Research (HTM) to establish a strong priority and provide clear guidelines for ensuring daily physical activity needs are met during the school day. The speaker criticizes the fact that renaming the subject to "movement education" has not resulted in an increase in the number of lessons, which still remains at two academic hours per week. This is a strategic, value-based position that underscores the vitality and strength of the nation. He/She strongly supports the proposal for one hour of activity outdoors every school day.

The speaker demonstrates profound expertise in the fields of sports policy, physical education, and public health, citing both personal experience and national strategies (such as the Fundamentals of Sports Policy until 2030). He/She delves into detailed issues, including the structure of school timetables, the limits of school autonomy in curriculum selection, and the underlying causes of declining children’s health metrics (screen addiction, insufficient physical activity). This expertise is reinforced by the proposal of practical solutions, such as opening schoolyards to the public and conducting lessons outdoors.

The rhetorical style is passionate, motivating, and simultaneously contains concrete proposals, utilizing both logical and emotional appeals. The speaker uses personal stories from childhood and family hikes to establish an emotional connection and underscore the value of physical activity. The tone is that of an advocate, urging both parents and the state to lead by example and take responsibility ("Go get moving, go to the woods!").

The speaker actively participates in the plenary session, posing questions to the minister and delivering extended speeches during the debate on issues of national importance. He/She references earlier political promises and their subsequent fulfillment (such as opening schoolyards in Tallinn), demonstrating consistency regarding the chosen themes.

The criticism is aimed squarely at the Ministry of Education and Research (HTM) and the schools for failing to prioritize children's physical health and ensure they get enough movement. The speaker slams schools for restricting activity during breaks due to fear of accidents, adding the ironic remark, "Well, active kids are bound to have accidents!" The criticism is focused on policy and practice, not on individuals.

The speaker stresses cooperation, highlighting the success achieved in opening schoolyards with Tallinn's coalition partners (including the Reform Party). They also advocate for cross-party support for elite sports, noting that, "It doesn't matter what political party you belong to, we always root for our own."

The main emphasis is on national issues (the survival of the Estonian state, public health, and education), but a specific regional achievement in Tallinn is highlighted: schoolyards were opened up for city residents to use for sports. Positive reference is also made to the 129 maintained health trails located across Estonia.

The economic arguments are implicit, emphasizing the positive impact of elite sports on both the economy and the athletes. Healthy lifestyles are also promoted, which are accessible and free (fitness trails, outdoor gyms), pointing to a cost-effective approach to public health.

The primary social issue is the decline in health indicators among children and youth, prompting demands for education system reform to combat this trend. Emphasis is placed on physical and mental health going hand-in-hand, along with the need to reduce smart device addiction and improve dietary habits. The speaker also stresses individual will and responsibility when it comes to taking care of one's health.

The legislative focus is on reforming the organization of education to ensure that children's daily need for physical activity is met. The specific proposal is to mandate one hour outdoors every school day, regardless of the subject being taught, and for the Ministry of Education and Research to issue corresponding guidelines to schools. Support is also being given to the objectives set out in the Ministry of Culture's Sports Policy Fundamentals until 2030.