Finland’s Supreme Court on Thursday opened hearings against parliamentarian Dr. Päivi Räsänen and Bishop Juhana Pohjola in the infamous ‘Bible Tweet’ case, which many consider a defining moment for free speech and religious liberty in Europe. Both stand accused of ‘hate speech’ over public statements and writings expressing their Christian views on marriage and sexuality.
Two lower courts—the Helsinki District Court in 2022 and the Court of Appeal in 2023—already acquitted both defendants unanimously, ruling that their statements fell within the scope of free speech and freedom of religion protected by Finnish and international law. Nevertheless, prosecutors escalated the case to the Supreme Court, insisting that Räsänen’s “interpretation” of Bible verses constitutes a criminal act.
“As I come before the Supreme Court, I am not only defending my own right to speak freely, but the right of every citizen to express beliefs without fear,” said Räsänen upon arriving at the courthouse, surrounded by journalists and supporters. “This case will show whether quoting the Bible can be considered a crime in a free society. I trust the Court will uphold the basic freedoms on which democracy stands.”
Paul Coleman, executive director of ADF International and member of Räsänen’s legal team, warned that the case “cuts to the foundation of democratic life.” He said, “When citizens risk punishment for peacefully expressing long-held beliefs, freedom itself is under threat.”
Over the course of the investigation, Räsänen faced over 13 hours of police questioning. “I was shocked that something like this could happen in Finland, in a country with long roots in Christianity and the rule of law.”
Following the Supreme Court session, the defendants and their legal team held a press conference. Calling the day “a landmark day,” Räsänen said, “It was difficult, surreal, to see my faith, conscience, and Bible itself placed on trial in a democratic nation.” She added that she is praying that “Finland would remain a country where everyone can hold their beliefs without fear.”
Bishop Pohjola followed, noting that he felt bound to defend both biblical teaching and natural law in his role as a bishop. “The basic teaching of the pamphlet is widely shared among Christian churches,” he said, adding that any conviction “will send dangerous signals to all Christians. Such an outcome would not contribute to building a free society based on the rule of law.”
Coleman emphasized that the outcome will have implications far beyond Finland. “A conviction will have impact on all Christians in Europe,” he said. “At the same time, an acquittal will send a strong signal to all people and strengthen the legal standard for everyone. It will have an impact beyond the borders.”
