Story perspectives

Finnish Politician Convicted of Hate Speech, Plans Appeal

3/26/2026

Summary

Story summary

Päivi Räsänen, a Finnish politician, was convicted of hate speech for a 2004 church pamphlet insulting homosexuals.
The Supreme Court issued a narrow 3-2 decision, imposing fines and ordering the pamphlet's removal.
Räsänen, previously acquitted, plans to appeal to the European Court of Human Rights.
Critics, including Paul Coleman from Alliance Defending Freedom, say the ruling is censorship.
Räsänen says the case concerns everyone's right to express beliefs in Finland.

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Story summary

Päivi Räsänen, a Finnish politician, was convicted of hate speech for a 2004 church pamphlet insulting homosexuals.
The Supreme Court issued a narrow 3-2 decision, imposing fines and ordering the pamphlet's removal.
Räsänen, previously acquitted, plans to appeal to the European Court of Human Rights.
Critics, including Paul Coleman from Alliance Defending Freedom, say the ruling is censorship.
Räsänen says the case concerns everyone's right to express beliefs in Finland.