Today we celebrate as the Helsinki District Court has upheld the right to free speech. In a unanimous ruling the court concluded that “it is not for the district court to interpret biblical concepts”. The prosecution was ordered to pay more than 60,000 EUR in legal costs. All of the charges against Päivi Räsänen and Bishop Juhana Pohjola were dismissed.
“I am so grateful the court recognized the threat to free speech and ruled in our favour. I feel a weight has been lifted off my shoulders after being acquitted. Although I am grateful for having had this chance to stand up for freedom of speech, I hope that this ruling will help prevent others from having to go through the same ordeal,” said Päivi Räsänen after her acquittal.
ADF International has stood by Päivi and Bishop Juhana for over two years. Together with you, we share in the joy of victory. It would not have been possible without you!