Finnish MP, convicted for remarks on homosexuality, files appeal to European court
August 17, 2026
» Continue to this story on Alliance Defending Freedom International
CWN Editor's Note: A prominent Finn who was convicted on hate-crimes charges in March, because she expressed support for biblical teaching on homosexuality in a 2004 pamphlet, appealed her conviction to the European Court of Human Rights.
Päivi Räsänen, a member of Parliament since 1995 and the nation’s former interior minister (2011-2015), was convicted by the nation’s Supreme Court in a 3-2 decision, along with Juhana Pohjola, a bishop of the Evangelical Lutheran Mission Diocese of Finland.
“My case stands to determine whether the fundamental rights of religious freedom and free speech are still protected in Finland and across Europe, and whether these societies are still willing to stand up for the rights of all—even those they disagree with,” said Räsänen.
Last month, the United Kingdom cancelled Räsänen’s travel authorization, leaving her unable to travel to Belfast to address a free-speech conference.
The above note supplements, highlights, or corrects details in the original source (link above). About CWN news coverage.
For all current news, visit our News home page.
All comments are moderated. To lighten our editing burden, only current donors are allowed to Sound Off. If you are a current donor, log in to see the comment form; otherwise please support our work, and Sound Off!
