Definition The V Riigikogu refers to the fifth legislative period of the Riigikogu, the unicameral parliament of Estonia, which was elected in 1932.
Overview The V Riigikogu served from 1932 to 1934, though its effective functioning was curtailed by the political crisis that led to the 1934 coup d'état. Elected amidst the global Great Depression and significant domestic political tensions, it faced intense debates over constitutional reform and the rise of right-wing populist movements. Its dissolution marked a pivotal moment in Estonian history, transitioning the country from a parliamentary democracy to an authoritarian regime known as the "Era of Silence."
Etymology/Origin The term "V Riigikogu" combines the Roman numeral "V" (meaning five) with "Riigikogu." "Riigikogu" is an Estonian compound word derived from riik (state, country) and kogu (assembly, collection). Thus, "V Riigikogu" literally means "the Fifth State Assembly" or "the Fifth Parliament of the State." It originated from the general election held in Estonia from May 21 to 23, 1932.
Characteristics
- Election: The V Riigikogu was elected in the general election of May 1932.
- Term: It convened on June 15, 1932. Although its mandate was constitutionally for three years, its legislative activities were effectively suspended on March 12, 1934, when Konstantin Päts, then acting Head of State (Riigivanem), declared a state of emergency. The parliament was formally dissolved on October 2, 1934.
- Political Climate: The period of the V Riigikogu was characterized by political instability and economic hardship due to the Great Depression. This environment fostered the growth of the right-wing Vaps (Estonian War of Independence Veterans' League) movement, which advocated for a more authoritarian presidential system.
- Constitutional Reforms: Major political debates centered on amending the 1920 constitution, which was perceived by many as too parliamentary and unstable. Several constitutional referendums were held during this period, ultimately leading to the adoption of a new constitution in 1933 that granted significantly more power to the head of state.
- End of Parliamentary Democracy: The V Riigikogu's term ended abruptly with the 1934 coup d'état. Fearing the Vaps movement's imminent victory in the upcoming elections, Konstantin Päts, supported by General Johan Laidoner, suspended parliament, banned political parties, and established a de facto authoritarian regime. This event effectively ended the first period of parliamentary democracy in Estonia.
Related Topics
- Riigikogu
- Konstantin Päts
- Estonian coup d'état of 1934
- Era of Silence (Estonia)
- Vaps Movement (Estonian War of Independence Veterans' League)
- History of Estonia