Agenda Profile: Aleksandr Tšaplõgin
Draft law amending the Constitution of the Republic of Estonia (536 SE) – first reading
2024-11-20
15th Riigikogu, 4th session, plenary sitting
Political Position
The political position strongly opposes the constitutional amendment bill (536 SE), which concerns the revocation of voting rights for Russian and Belarusian citizens. The criticism is value-based, emphasizing the undemocratic nature of the principle of collective punishment and its inconsistency with the principles of the rule of law. The speaker questions the main justification provided by the bill’s proponents, pointing out that supporters of Putin also exist among Estonian citizens.
2 Speeches Analyzed
Topic Expertise
The speaker demonstrates awareness of security issues and the assessment of policy consequences, citing the viewpoint of Arnold Sinisalu, the former head of the Security Police Board. The expert analysis emphasizes that the revocation of voting rights, instead of solving existing problems, may generate additional security threats. References to the principles of the rule of law and democracy are used to contest the foundations of the draft bill.
2 Speeches Analyzed
Rhetorical Style
The rhetorical style is formal, critical, and interrogative, employing rhetorical questions to challenge the fundamental principles of the draft bill. The tone is serious and focuses on logical appeals, emphasizing the injustice of collective punishment and the security expert's warning. The speaker presents their arguments directly and concretely, demanding clarification from the rapporteur.
2 Speeches Analyzed
Activity Patterns
The speaker actively participated in the first reading of Bill 536 SE, posing two substantive and critical questions to the rapporteur in quick succession. This pattern of activity suggests focused and targeted involvement in the debate surrounding this specific piece of legislation.
2 Speeches Analyzed
Opposition Stance
The main opponents are the supporters of the draft law, who are being criticized for implementing the principle of collective punishment and using undemocratic methods. The criticism is intense and centers on the ethical and security rationale of the policy. Data regarding a willingness to compromise is lacking, but the position remains strongly oppositional.
2 Speeches Analyzed
Collaboration Style
Insufficient data.
2 Speeches Analyzed
Regional Focus
The focus is national, addressing the amendment of the Constitution of the Republic of Estonia and the rights of Russian and Belarusian citizens residing in Estonia. Central to the discussion are national security and the principles of the rule of law within the Estonian context.
2 Speeches Analyzed
Economic Views
Insufficient data.
2 Speeches Analyzed
Social Issues
The primary social issue discussed is the restriction of voting rights and civil liberties, with the speaker strongly defending the rights of Russian citizens residing in Estonia against collective punishment. The question of balancing security and civil rights is also raised, pointing to the potential dangers that could arise from the deprivation of these rights.
2 Speeches Analyzed
Legislative Focus
The legislative focus is currently on opposing the draft bill (536 SE) to amend the Constitution, specifically regarding the restriction of suffrage. The speaker is taking a strong stance against the bill, concentrating on its legal and security merits during the first reading.
2 Speeches Analyzed