Agenda Profile: Rain Epler
Draft law (469 SE) for the ratification of the International Labour Organization’s (ILO) Convention No. 190 concerning the elimination of violence and harassment in the world of work – first reading
2024-09-25
15th Riigikogu, 4th sitting, plenary session
Political Position
The political position is strongly opposed to the ratification of International Labour Organization Convention No. 190, because it redefines gender-based violence and harassment by including social gender. This stance is value-based, emphasizing the necessity of adhering to biological sex as defined in the constitution and science. The speaker believes that the convention represents an entry into new, dangerous territory.
2 Speeches Analyzed
Topic Expertise
The speaker demonstrates knowledge of the substance of the document being ratified, referring to Article 1 of the convention and § 12 of the Estonian Constitution. The analysis focuses on the differences between the definitions of social and biological sex and their impact on legislation and the working environment. Argumentation referencing a scientific approach is employed (based on science, chromosomes).
2 Speeches Analyzed
Rhetorical Style
The rhetorical style is confrontational and critical, accusing the minister of being on the wrong track, exhibiting short-sightedness, and evading questions. Emotional and provocative hypothetical examples (the changing room incident, violence) are used to illustrate the danger posed by the new definitions. The tone is formal, but the substance is sharp and argumentative.
2 Speeches Analyzed
Activity Patterns
Insufficient data.
2 Speeches Analyzed
Opposition Stance
The primary adversary is the minister and his/her fellow party members, who are being criticized for accepting the concept of social gender. The criticism is intense, accusing the minister of being on the wrong track and misleading the public, and centers on political and value-based disagreements. No possibility for compromise is being offered.
2 Speeches Analyzed
Collaboration Style
Insufficient data.
2 Speeches Analyzed
Regional Focus
The focus is at the international level (the ILO convention) and its influence on Estonian national legislation (Article 12 of the Constitution). There is no regional or local focus.
2 Speeches Analyzed
Economic Views
The economic implications are indirect, touching upon employer obligations and potential administrative burden (a massive bureaucratic undertaking must be launched) related to accommodating new gender identities in the workplace. Fiscal policy standpoints are absent.
2 Speeches Analyzed
Social Issues
The focus of social themes is sharply aimed at the position against recognizing social gender, stressing biological sex. Women's private spaces are being defended, with the argument that a man entering a women's changing room constitutes harassment or violence, and the rationale for protecting the dignity of such an individual is being questioned.
2 Speeches Analyzed
Legislative Focus
The legislative focus is on opposing the draft bill (469 SE) for the ratification of International Labour Organization Convention No. 190. The speaker is a strong opponent, focusing on how the convention’s definitions alter the Estonian legal framework and the interpretation of the constitution.
2 Speeches Analyzed