Session Profile: Rain Epler
15th Riigikogu, 4th sitting, plenary session
2024-09-25
Political Position
The speaker positions himself/herself as a fierce opponent of the coalition's energy policy—which relies on subsidizing wind and solar power—instead strongly advocating for the use of nuclear energy and oil shale as a means of saving the economy. In the social sphere, the speaker is strictly opposed to the legal definition of "social gender" (gender identity), stressing that the constitution must be grounded in biological sex. Their views are strongly value-based concerning social questions and outcome-based regarding economic and energy questions.
4 Speeches Analyzed
Topic Expertise
The speaker demonstrates profound expertise in the fields of energy and economics, utilizing data and correlations (graphs showing electricity prices versus the share of renewable energy) and citing specific examples of the collapse of European industries (steel manufacturers, fertilizer producers, aluminum production, Volkswagen). Furthermore, he exhibits knowledge regarding constitutional interpretation and international conventions (specifically, the definitions of gender-based violence).
4 Speeches Analyzed
Rhetorical Style
The style is predominantly combative and forceful, especially on economic topics, warning that incorrect decisions will lead to "poverty" and constitute a "dead end." He uses repetition and simplification to make his message understandable to the coalition members. Regarding social issues, he employs provocative hypothetical examples (entering a changing room, hitting back/retaliating) to illustrate the absurdity and danger of the new definitions.
4 Speeches Analyzed
Activity Patterns
The speaker is active in parliamentary debates, noting that he is repeating himself and has spoken at the rostrum multiple times on energy issues. He mentions a recent meeting with a delegation of Canadian nuclear energy entrepreneurs, which demonstrates active engagement with international stakeholders.
4 Speeches Analyzed
Opposition Stance
The criticism is aimed directly at the coalition and the Prime Minister, accusing them of making poor decisions and worsening the economy. He/She criticizes the ministers for short-sightedness and for misleading the public regarding social definitions. The criticism is sharp and policy-based, claiming that the opposing side is unwilling to learn from the mistakes of Germany and Europe.
4 Speeches Analyzed
Collaboration Style
Not enough data
4 Speeches Analyzed
Regional Focus
The focus is primarily national (the Estonian economy, energy sector, and public transport reform) and international (examples drawn from European industry and the German economy). Regionally, it addresses Estonia's demographic problem, where Tallinn is growing while the remaining regions are emptying out, in connection with the analysis of public transport costs.
4 Speeches Analyzed
Economic Views
The speaker is a strong proponent of economic growth, which must be underpinned by stable and reasonably priced electricity. He opposes tax increases and the subsidization of renewable energy, seeing these measures as a path that degrades the economic environment and leads to poverty. He stresses that industrial enterprises need stable energy, not "green energy."
4 Speeches Analyzed
Social Issues
The speaker is strongly opposed to the inclusion of social gender (social gender) in the definitions of gender-based violence and harassment, arguing that this contradicts the constitution and biological science. They also question the protection of the dignity of transgender individuals in the workplace when it infringes upon the rights and safety of others (e.g., women).
4 Speeches Analyzed
Legislative Focus
The speaker is focused on challenging existing legislation and international treaties. He/She urges a vote against the energy bill and raises critical questions regarding the ratification of the convention that alters the definitions of gender-based harassment.
4 Speeches Analyzed