The Social Democratic Party (SDE) has initiated a legislative proposal aimed at reducing the influence of oligarchs in Estonia by capping individual donations to political parties. The proposal, which allows individuals to donate up to 100,000 euros annually to a party, is designed to limit the impact of large donors on Estonian politics. Donations exceeding this limit would be considered illegal and must be transferred to the state budget, while membership fees greater than this amount would also be prohibited.

During the first reading of the bill in the Riigikogu, the SDE's Lauri Läänemets presented the legislation, facing considerable skepticism from members of other parties, particularly from the Estonian Conservative People's Party (EKRE). Questions were raised regarding the bill's effectiveness and how potential loopholes could be avoided. This reaction reflects broader concerns about campaign financing and the integrity of the political process in Estonia, highlighting the ongoing debates surrounding political donations and their regulation.

If enacted, this legislation could significantly reshape the fundraising landscape for political parties in Estonia, promoting more equitable political financing and reducing the concentration of power among affluent individuals. The bill demonstrates a legislative response to public calls for transparency in political funding and aims at creating a more level playing field in Estonia's democratic processes.