Finnish politician Päivi Räsänen is facing serious legal challenges after sharing a Bible verse on social media. This post, which included a passage from Romans about Christian beliefs on sexuality, led to her being charged with hate speech. Over the past six years, Räsänen has undergone extensive police questioning, totaling 13 hours, where she was asked detailed theological questions about her beliefs.
Räsänen described her interrogation as surreal. Sitting in a small police room with a Bible on the table, she found herself discussing concepts like sin and shame. She was questioned three times and each time was given two weeks to delete her post and apologize. Räsänen refused, stating that her views are based on the Bible, not personal opinion.
A member of the Lutheran Church, Räsänen has previously held the position of Finland’s Minister of the Interior, which means she once oversaw the police who interrogated her. Her case has now reached Finland’s top court after lower courts acquitted her in 2022 and 2023. She faces charges for "agitation against a minority group."
The Supreme Court hearing took place recently, and Räsänen was represented by the Alliance Defending Freedom International and lawyer Matti Sankamo. During the proceedings, it was noted that prosecutors seem to have shifted their focus in the case against her. Also on trial is Bishop Juhana Pohjola, who published a pamphlet written by Räsänen in 2004 that defends traditional marriage.
If found guilty, both Räsänen and Pohjola could face significant fines and possibly prison time, although prosecutors have not requested imprisonment. Paul Coleman, the executive director of Alliance Defending Freedom International, expressed concerns that a ruling against Räsänen could criminalize many Christian teachings and writings.
The case raises important questions about freedom of speech and religious expression in Europe. Räsänen believes the heart of the trial is whether biblical teachings can still be discussed in public, especially when they contradict societal norms. A verdict is not expected until spring 2026, but Räsänen remains hopeful for a positive outcome that would uphold freedom of religion and speech.
