Agenda Profile: Jaak Valge
Second Reading of the Draft Act (344 SE) on the Amendment of the Riigikogu Election Act and Related Amendment of Other Acts
2024-04-17
15th Riigikogu, 3rd session, plenary sitting
Political Position
The political focus is centered on strong opposition to expanding e-voting and its current format, especially its use on mobile devices. This stance is value-based, emphasizing that trust in election results is the core of democracy and must take precedence over mere convenience. Concern is also voiced regarding the decline of parliamentarism, where committees merely carry out the decisions made by the coalition council, indicating systemic criticism. EKRE does not support the expansion of e-voting, as it makes the secrecy of elections even more vulnerable.
5 Speeches Analyzed
Topic Expertise
The speaker demonstrates a thorough understanding of the technical and legal deficiencies of e-voting, focusing specifically on issues related to ensuring secrecy, verifiability, and source code compliance. A comparative international context is employed, referencing the practices of France, Switzerland, and Russia, alongside trust statistics (Norstat, Skytte Institute). Furthermore, experts (Martin Ehala) and colleagues (Katri Raik) are cited to support the arguments.
5 Speeches Analyzed
Rhetorical Style
The rhetorical style is critical, sharp, and forceful, combining logical arguments (international comparisons, cost analysis) with strong value-based appeals (trust in democracy). Dramatic and resolute language is used, asserting that Estonian parliamentarism is "finished" and accusing the Riigikogu Board and committee of procedural deadlock ("vicious circle").
5 Speeches Analyzed
Activity Patterns
The speaker is highly active during the debate of the draft bill (344 SE), repeatedly posing both procedural questions concerning the actions of the Riigikogu Board and substantive questions to the rapporteur. This pattern of behavior indicates a focus on the procedural correctness of the legislation and the provision of substantive criticism.
5 Speeches Analyzed
Opposition Stance
Strong opposition is directed at the Constitutional Committee, which is accused of disregarding the law, rejecting a collective appeal without substantive justification, and excluding election observers. Criticism is also aimed at the government and the Prime Minister, who are seen as dictating parliamentary decisions, while the committee chairman is dismissed as merely a "pawn."
5 Speeches Analyzed
Collaboration Style
Cooperation is carried out with the NGO "Ausad Valimised" (Fair Elections), which operates outside of parliament, and whose proposals for increasing the transparency of e-voting are presented and defended. The speaker is attempting to resolve a procedural deadlock concerning the NGO at the level of the Riigikogu Board. There is no information regarding inter-party cooperation.
5 Speeches Analyzed
Regional Focus
The focus is primarily on the national level (the Estonian electoral system) and international comparison, to demonstrate the exceptional nature of Estonian e-voting. Regarding regional issues, only Narva is mentioned, in connection with Katri Raik's claim about the computer serving as a "mobile ballot box."
5 Speeches Analyzed
Economic Views
The economic arguments directly address the costs associated with e-voting, asserting that it does not make elections cheaper; rather, it is demonstrably several times more expensive. This highlights concerns regarding the cost-effectiveness of the electoral system and the presence of unjustified expenditures.
5 Speeches Analyzed
Social Issues
The primary social issue is the public's lack of trust in election results, with nearly 40% of voters distrusting the outcome. This is directly tied to the deficiencies of the e-voting system, which, in turn, diminishes voters' political interest and participation.
5 Speeches Analyzed
Legislative Focus
The legislative focus is currently on opposing Bill 344 SE (Amendment to the Riigikogu Election Act), particularly concerning the expansion of e-voting to mobile devices. The speaker is acting as a staunch opponent of the bill, attempting to introduce proposals put forth by the NGO Fair Elections (MTÜ Ausad Valimised) aimed at increasing transparency, such as granting observers the right to challenge and ensuring access to information.
5 Speeches Analyzed