Agenda Profile: Aleksandr Tšaplõgin
Draft law amending the Church and Religious Communities Act (570 UA) – second reading
2025-06-11
15th Riigikogu, 5th session, plenary sitting
Political Position
The most crucial topic is the draft amendment to the Churches and Congregations Act, which the speaker strongly opposes, deeming it politically biased. This stance is value-based, emphasizing the principles of the rule of law and religious freedom, and criticizing state interference in the internal affairs of the church. The speaker defends the rights of those who profess Russian Orthodoxy.
1 Speeches Analyzed
Topic Expertise
The speaker demonstrates expertise in constitutional matters, stressing the principles of the rule of law and the separation of church and state. Specific terminology (canonical ties) is employed, and reference is made to the legal principle that punishment can only be imposed for a specific committed act. The argument is further supported by a reference to the president's comment.
1 Speeches Analyzed
Rhetorical Style
The style is critical and argumentative, employing strong phrases such as "politically biased law" and "muzzling society." The speaker relies on authoritative citations (President Karis) and emphasizes logical and legal argumentation concerning the rule of law. The tone is formal and persuasive, with the goal of rejecting the draft legislation.
1 Speeches Analyzed
Activity Patterns
Not enough data
1 Speeches Analyzed
Opposition Stance
The main opponents are the government and the Social Democrats, who are accused of restricting the activities of the Orthodox Church and engaging in "labeling." The criticism is intense, focusing on political bias and the violation of the principles of the rule of law. Separately, Interior Minister Igor Taro's earlier statements regarding the nuns of the Pühtitsa Convent are being criticized.
1 Speeches Analyzed
Collaboration Style
Not enough data
1 Speeches Analyzed
Regional Focus
The focus is on the national level (the Estonian state, Toompea) and on a religious/international issue (canonical ties with the Russian Church). A specific Estonian community (Pühtitsa Convent) is mentioned, along with tens of thousands of people who profess Russian Orthodoxy, whose rights are being sought to be protected.
1 Speeches Analyzed
Economic Views
Not enough data
1 Speeches Analyzed
Social Issues
The core social issue is religious freedom and the protection of the Orthodox community from state intervention. The speaker strongly emphasizes civil liberties and the principle of the rule of law: that people must not be punished for an act they have not committed. The topic is framed as the defense of religious and legal values.
1 Speeches Analyzed
Legislative Focus
The legislative focus is on the second reading of the draft law amending the Law on Churches and Congregations (570 UA). The speaker is a strong opponent of the bill, calling for the rejection of this politically biased legislation. The objective is to prevent the severance of the Orthodox Church's canonical ties with the Russian Church.
1 Speeches Analyzed