Session Profile: Toomas Uibo
15th Riigikogu, 3rd session, plenary sitting
2024-01-16
Political Position
The political focus is directed towards the liquidation of 'red monuments' and Soviet heritage, which is considered a "large and very disturbing problem." The speaker strongly opposes the Estonian state paying for the upkeep of these graves. At the same time, the government's actions are criticized for using ill-conceived follow-up measures and excessively confrontational rhetoric.
3 Speeches Analyzed
Topic Expertise
The speaker demonstrates knowledge regarding the scope of the register of cultural monuments and Soviet-era monuments, referencing over 26,000 memorials, many of which are Soviet-era monuments. The discussion of the topic is detailed, emphasizing that the problem is broader than just a single object (the Bronze Soldier).
3 Speeches Analyzed
Rhetorical Style
The rhetorical style is critical and direct, using strong expressions like "red usurpers" and emphasizing the disturbing nature of the problem. The speaker combines emotionally charged language with factual references (register data) and repeatedly employs questions to highlight the shortcomings and lack of clarity in the plans ("unthought-out," "incomprehensible").
3 Speeches Analyzed
Activity Patterns
The speaker references previous public activity, specifically mentioning a post made in early October titled "Red Usurpers in Estonian Nature." This demonstrates proactive engagement with the topic even outside the walls of the Parliament.
3 Speeches Analyzed
Opposition Stance
The opposition is directed against the rhetoric of the government or the bill's supporters, who label non-supporters as "people hostile towards Estonia." The state policy that pays for the upkeep of red monuments and graves is also criticized.
3 Speeches Analyzed
Collaboration Style
The speaker begins by agreeing with the presenter's background information, but then immediately pivots to criticizing the absence of follow-up plans. Data regarding broad-based cooperation or readiness to compromise is missing.
3 Speeches Analyzed
Regional Focus
The focus is clearly national, emphasizing that the Soviet-era monuments are a problem "across Estonia" and referencing the register of cultural monuments. There is no concentration on specific local regions or international issues.
3 Speeches Analyzed
Economic Views
Economic considerations are reflected in strong opposition to spending state funds on the maintenance of Soviet-era monuments and graves. This indicates a desire to terminate ideologically unacceptable state expenditures.
3 Speeches Analyzed
Social Issues
The primary social issue revolves around historical memory and national identity, manifesting in strong opposition to preserving the symbols of Soviet occupation (the so-called "red monuments") within the Estonian landscape. The issue is viewed more broadly than simply the relocation of a few individual objects.
3 Speeches Analyzed
Legislative Focus
The legislative focus is directed towards bills concerning the relocation and destruction of monuments. The speaker acts as a critical opponent, demanding legislative clarity regarding the future handling of these objects and the long-term plan, specifically asking whether they should be "destroyed."
3 Speeches Analyzed