Agenda Profile: Rain Epler
Inquiry regarding a naval operation (no. 784) that failed and ended with the risk of military confrontation.
2025-09-22
15th Riigikogu, 6th sitting, plenary session
Political Position
The political focus is split between national security (specifically, the failure to close the land border with Russia) and the protection of democracy. The strongest objection is directed against the government's actions, which label criticism as hostile to Estonia and appear to be moving the country toward totalitarianism. These positions are fundamentally value-based, underscoring the necessity of returning to the principles of a democratic and free society.
2 Speeches Analyzed
Topic Expertise
The speaker demonstrates expertise in democratic processes and parliamentary procedure, criticizing attempts to neutralize the Riigikogu and restrict members' rights. They are also well-versed in specific draft legislation concerning freedom of speech and preventive punishment. Ideological references are employed, such as a warning about the drift toward the type of society described by Orwell.
2 Speeches Analyzed
Rhetorical Style
The rhetorical style is highly combative, accusatory, and forceful, especially when addressing the crisis of democracy. It employs strong emotional appeals and labeling ("malice," "totalitarianism"), positioning itself in opposition to the government's patriotic rhetoric. The discourse is more ideological and cautionary than data-driven, and includes direct appeals not to vote for the ruling parties.
2 Speeches Analyzed
Activity Patterns
The speaker notes that they already discussed the crisis of democracy last week, indicating the topic is being raised repeatedly and regularly. The presentations are held in the Riigikogu (Estonian Parliament) as part of an interpellation, utilizing this platform to address broader political and security issues.
2 Speeches Analyzed
Opposition Stance
The opposition is highly intense and targeted at the Reform Party (the Prime Minister, Ligi), Eesti 200 (Taro), and the Social Democrats. The criticism is both procedural (the neutralization of the Riigikogu/Parliament) and value-based (labeling critics as enemies, moving towards totalitarianism). Compromise is ruled out, as the speaker recommends not voting for these parties in the local elections.
2 Speeches Analyzed
Collaboration Style
Insufficient data.
2 Speeches Analyzed
Regional Focus
The focus is clearly national, centering on keeping the Estonian land border with Russia open and the national democracy crisis. Local or regional issues are not addressed, although an electoral recommendation is provided in the context of the upcoming local elections.
2 Speeches Analyzed
Economic Views
Insufficient data.
2 Speeches Analyzed
Social Issues
The primary social issue is the protection of civil liberties and freedom of speech against government attempts to penalize individuals for reading or listening to content deemed inappropriate. This is framed as the necessity of defending a free society from restrictions justified by the fear of preventive punishment and radicalization.
2 Speeches Analyzed
Legislative Focus
Legislative focus centers on the opposition to two specific measures: the drastic restriction of the rights of Riigikogu members and the Taro bill, which aims to introduce preventive sentencing. The speaker is a staunch opponent of these initiatives, viewing them as a threat to the Estonian state and democracy.
2 Speeches Analyzed