Session Profile: Rain Epler
15th Riigikogu, 6th sitting, plenary session
2025-09-08
Political Position
The political position is strongly oppositional toward the government, accusing it of implementing liberal-democratic totalitarianism and abusing procedural rules. The primary political goal is to achieve Estonia's energy independence and restore the country's status as an electricity exporter, as it was in 2018. The speaker sharply criticizes Europe's and Estonia's excessive reliance on imports and their unreasonable energy choices (wind/solar). The political framework is strongly value-based and assertive.
3 Speeches Analyzed
Topic Expertise
The speaker demonstrates profound expertise in the field of energy, utilizing precise statistical data and technical terminology. They cite the international source "Statistical Review of World Energy" and present specific figures concerning Europe's primary energy consumption (52 exajoules) and its import dependency on fossil fuels (85%). The importance of physics is emphasized, along with the actual contribution of energy sources (wind and solar account for only 5% of primary energy).
3 Speeches Analyzed
Rhetorical Style
The rhetorical style is sharply critical, combative, and forceful, employing strong ideological terms such as "liberal-democratic totalitarianism" and "bastard language." The argumentation relies heavily on statistical data and logical appeals, but also uses dramatic comparisons (George Orwell) to characterize the government's actions. The speaker admonishes colleagues and ministers, calling into question their credibility and the soundness of their decisions.
3 Speeches Analyzed
Activity Patterns
The speaker actively participates in plenary sessions, raising both substantive questions (on energy) and procedural inquiries. They respond to the arguments of other speakers, taking the floor even when it wasn't initially scheduled. A recurring pattern is observed where they reiterate important statistical data to substantiate their viewpoints.
3 Speeches Analyzed
Opposition Stance
Strong opposition is directed at the government and ministers, who are accused of abusing power and promoting the coalition at Riigikogu events. The criticism is both policy-based (concerning energy) and ideological, accusing the government of distorting the truth and employing "bastard language" (a reference to the reinterpretation of the Elering CEO’s statements). No willingness to compromise is evident; instead, the opposing side is called upon to abandon their political attachments.
3 Speeches Analyzed
Collaboration Style
The cooperation style is primarily confrontational and challenging, directing criticism and admonishments straight at colleagues (e.g., Andres). The speaker questions the suitability of a government minister to serve as the rapporteur for the dialogue between the Riigikogu (Parliament) and the Academy of Sciences. No direct cooperation or willingness to compromise with other parties is evident from the speeches.
3 Speeches Analyzed
Regional Focus
The focus is broad, encompassing Europe's geopolitical position, the future of its economy, and its energy dependence on imports. Estonia is discussed within the European context, highlighting the necessity of making sensible decisions here in Estonia before "old, big, and slow Europe" finally catches on. Specific local or regional projects are not mentioned, but the goal of restoring Estonia's status as an electricity exporter is strongly emphasized.
3 Speeches Analyzed
Economic Views
Economic perspectives emphasize the importance of competitiveness, arguing that the European economy is stagnating due to over-regulation and ill-advised energy policy decisions. It strongly advocates for energy independence and security of supply as the bedrock of economic success. Germany’s energy policy is criticized, specifically for its negative impact on neighboring countries (Norway, Sweden).
3 Speeches Analyzed
Social Issues
Insufficient Data
3 Speeches Analyzed
Legislative Focus
The legislative focus is directed towards the criticism of the energy strategy and the necessity for its modification, stressing the need to make "reasonable decisions" and regain the capacity for electricity export. Furthermore, the speaker concentrates on ensuring the integrity of the Riigikogu's procedural formats by questioning the suitability of a government minister to serve as the rapporteur for the dialogue.
3 Speeches Analyzed