Agenda Profile: Jaak Valge
Inquiry regarding a network of number plate recognition cameras and the associated database (no. 756)
2025-06-09
15th Riigikogu, 5th session, plenary session
Political Position
The political position centers on strong opposition to the use of facial recognition technology by state agencies without a legal basis, and the challenging of official explanations. This stance is both value-driven and policy-based, emphasizing the necessity of ensuring the legality of citizen surveillance and preventing widespread control. The speaker demands clarity regarding who can authorize the use of such sensitive technologies, and on what legal grounds.
1 Speeches Analyzed
Topic Expertise
The speaker demonstrates detailed knowledge of specific procedures and dates, referencing the May 13 meeting of the Legal Affairs Committee and the Constitutional Committee. The expertise is focused on the legal basis and practical application issues of state surveillance technologies (number plate and facial recognition). He/She uses specific quotes from Kristi Mäe, Deputy Director General of the PPA, to support his/her argument.
1 Speeches Analyzed
Rhetorical Style
The rhetorical style is skeptical, direct, and interrogative, utilizing logical argumentation to dispute official explanations. The speaker emphasizes the gravity of the issue by contrasting the PPA’s alleged “testing” with the actual “real surveillance.” The tone is formal, addressing the Prime Minister directly, yet it conveys sharp suspicion regarding the activities of state institutions.
1 Speeches Analyzed
Activity Patterns
The pattern of activity indicates active participation in the Riigikogu's oversight mechanisms through the submission of interpellations. The speaker monitors and responds to the discussions of specific committees (the Legal Affairs Committee and the Constitutional Committee) and the testimonies of officials.
1 Speeches Analyzed
Opposition Stance
The primary criticism is aimed at the leadership of the Police and Border Guard Board (PPA), who are accused of providing vague or misleading explanations regarding the use of facial recognition technology. The criticism is procedural, focusing on the lack of a legal basis, thereby calling into question the motives behind the state institution's actions.
1 Speeches Analyzed
Collaboration Style
Insufficient data.
1 Speeches Analyzed
Regional Focus
The focus is national, addressing high-level events that took place on the territory of the Republic of Estonia, such as the visit of the President of Ukraine, and national supervision. There is no specific regional or local focus.
1 Speeches Analyzed
Economic Views
Insufficient data.
1 Speeches Analyzed
Social Issues
The central social issue is the balance between civil liberties and national security, emphasizing the need to protect the public from widespread surveillance that lacks a legal basis. The objective is to ensure that policing methods, particularly the use of facial recognition, are lawful and restricted.
1 Speeches Analyzed
Legislative Focus
The legislative focus is directed towards clarifying the legal basis for the use of surveillance technology and the procedure for granting permits. The speaker demands information regarding the legal basis on which such trials can take place and who is responsible for granting authorization.
1 Speeches Analyzed