Finnish Politician Päivi Räsänen Challenges European Hate Speech Laws

Former Finnish Interior Minister Päivi Räsänen has publicly criticized European hate speech legislation, labeling such laws as dangerous and problematic. Speaking at an International Foundation for Therapeutic and Counselling Choice conference in Poland, Räsänen argued that these legal frameworks create a chilling effect on free speech, noting that many Finnish citizens and politicians fear prosecution for expressing traditional Christian views.

In March, Finland’s Supreme Court convicted Räsänen and Bishop Juhana Pohjola of agitation against a population group. The conviction stemmed from a 2004 booklet authored by Räsänen, which described homosexuality as a sexual deviation. The court ordered the removal of specific passages from the text and imposed an 1,800-euro fine. Räsänen and her co-defendants, supported by the Alliance Defending Freedom, are currently appealing the decision to the European Court of Human Rights.

Räsänen stated that while many colleagues have privately expressed support, few are willing to speak publicly due to the legal risks. She emphasized that language has become a contentious battlefield, warning that current laws are being used to restrict religious expression.