Session Profile: Rain Epler
15th Riigikogu, 5th session, plenary session
2025-01-27
Political Position
Political activity is heavily focused on scrutinizing the Riigikogu's rules of procedure and the decisions made by the presiding officer, demanding a unified and traditional order of proceedings. On substantive matters, the speaker expresses strong skepticism regarding the concept of scientific consensus, viewing it as a dangerous tool for silencing dissent. These positions are strongly value-based, emphasizing procedural consistency and intellectual freedom.
3 Speeches Analyzed
Topic Expertise
The speaker demonstrates expertise in the specifics of the procedure for conducting a Riigikogu session, knowing previous practices and rules. Furthermore, they are able to connect the issue of social gender to a broader debate concerning the role and dangers of scientific consensus in society. They refer to the charter of the International Labour Organization and the prior actions of their colleague Pakosta.
3 Speeches Analyzed
Rhetorical Style
The style is formal, analytical, and challenging, especially when addressing the chair. The speaker employs logical argumentation, demanding clarity and a consistent approach in procedural matters, while avoiding emotional appeals. In the introduction to social topics, the speaker adopts a cautionary tone, describing the narrative of scientific consensus as dangerous.
3 Speeches Analyzed
Activity Patterns
The speaker is highly active in the plenary session, raising consecutive questions regarding both procedural and substantive matters throughout a single sitting day. They are prepared to immediately respond to and challenge the rulings of the presiding officer.
3 Speeches Analyzed
Opposition Stance
The main criticism is aimed at the presiding officer, whose decisions regarding the procedure for conducting the session are considered arbitrary and inconsistent. Substantively, there is opposition to the government representative’s positions on the topic of social gender, with critics arguing that this approach serves to silence dissenters.
3 Speeches Analyzed
Collaboration Style
The speaker demonstrates swift and pragmatic collaboration with their colleague ("Anti") in resolving procedural matters, ensuring that the critical topic is addressed. This suggests a readiness for in-chamber coordination.
3 Speeches Analyzed
Regional Focus
Not enough data
3 Speeches Analyzed
Economic Views
Not enough data
3 Speeches Analyzed
Social Issues
The speaker adopts a skeptical and critical stance regarding the concept of social gender, questioning the minister about the boundaries of its implementation. They are concerned that eliminating discrimination based on social gender could lead, for example, to justifying the use of changing rooms intended for the opposite sex.
3 Speeches Analyzed
Legislative Focus
The primary focus is on ensuring the continuity of the Riigikogu's rules of procedure so that the submission of bills and interpellations occurs in the prescribed sequence. Essentially, the focus is on challenging the boundaries of policies and legislation addressing the topic of social gender.
3 Speeches Analyzed