Agenda Profile: Rain Epler

Second reading of the draft law (469 SE) ratifying the International Labour Organization’s (ILO) Convention No. 190 concerning the elimination of violence and harassment in the world of work

2024-10-24

15th Riigikogu, 4th sitting, plenary session

Political Position
The political stance is strongly opposed to the ratification of the convention, arguing that it unnecessarily broadens legislation and opens "Pandora's box" through the unlimited scope of the concept of social gender. This position is value-based, linking the convention to the "woke agenda" and expressing concern over the restriction of the nation's right to sovereign decision-making. Furthermore, it sharply criticizes the Estonian government's silence regarding the UN leader’s visit to Russia, citing foreign policy uncertainty.

5 Speeches Analyzed
Topic Expertise
The speaker demonstrates knowledge of international law terminology, particularly regarding the definitions of gender, referencing the Council of Europe's explanations and the original English text (sex and gender). The speaker is aware of the procedural stipulations for denunciation of the convention (the 10-year period) and the structure of UN agencies (ILO). Furthermore, the speaker is familiar with local research projects (bog restoration) and their funding methods.

5 Speeches Analyzed
Rhetorical Style
The rhetorical style is confrontational and critical, employing emotional metaphors ("Pandora's box," "woke-agenda") and direct accusations concerning the advancement of a political agenda. The argumentation blends the analysis of legal definitions with a personal anecdote (gender reassignment) and geopolitical criticism (the UN head in Russia). The speaker raises questions regarding the presenter's expression of a personal opinion and the absence of committee discussion, thereby calling the neutrality of the process into question.

5 Speeches Analyzed
Activity Patterns
The speaker is active in the Riigikogu session hall during the second reading of the draft bill, posing repeated questions to the rapporteur and delivering an extended speech. During the course of one question, it is mentioned that he/she is seen less often in the hall than in the committee, referencing active work in the committees. He/She also refers to recent events, such as the arrival of the UN head in Russia on October 22nd.

5 Speeches Analyzed
Opposition Stance
The opposition is aimed at the convention's supporters, who are being criticized for procedural deficiencies and promoting the "woke agenda." Particularly forceful criticism is directed at the Estonian foreign policy leadership (Tsahkna, Läänemets, the Prime Minister) for their silence regarding the UN head's visit to Russia. He/She also criticizes the presenter for expressing a personal opinion, which is supposedly incompatible with their role.

5 Speeches Analyzed
Collaboration Style
Not enough data.

5 Speeches Analyzed
Regional Focus
The speaker brings up local examples, mentioning people in Viljandi who need to have the topic of social gender explained to them. He/She goes into detail about a bog restoration project in his/her home area, using it as an example of how the issue of social gender is infiltrating scientific research and leading to the inefficient use of state funds.

5 Speeches Analyzed
Economic Views
We do not have enough information. Although the discussion relates to the labor convention, the speaker does not express views on taxes, budget, or trade, but merely mentions the theft of public funds in connection with the wetland restoration project.

5 Speeches Analyzed
Social Issues
In social matters, the speaker adopts a strongly opposing position regarding the expansion of the concept of social gender, viewing it as a dangerous part of the "woke agenda." He stresses that an unlimited scale of social gender, separate from biological sex, makes defining and controlling harassment impossible. He also criticizes the way this concept is infiltrating scientific research and everyday life (such as the construction of new shower facilities).

5 Speeches Analyzed
Legislative Focus
The main legislative focus is the opposition to the draft bill (469 SE) concerning the ratification of the International Labour Organization's Convention No. 190. The speaker is on the opposing side, focusing on criticizing the provisions of international law (especially the definition of social gender) and their incompatibility with Estonian legislation, as he/she believes that all necessary topics are already covered by Estonian laws.

5 Speeches Analyzed