Päivi Räsänen at the U.S. House Judiciary Committee

PRESS RELEASE

5 February 2026

Päivi Räsänen at the U.S. House Judiciary Committee – Criminal charges for sharing a Bible verse astonished members of Congress

Yesterday, Wednesday 4 February 2026, I participated in a hearing organized by the U.S. House Judiciary Committee. Committee Chairman Jim Jordan (Rep.) invited me to speak about my legal case. The theme of the hearing was “Europe’s Threat to American Free Speech and Innovation.”

In Congress, I described my nearly seven-year freedom-of-speech trial. The case began with a Twitter post I published in 2019 and a pamphlet I wrote in 2004, “Male and Female He Created Them.” Both the District Court and the Court of Appeal have previously dismissed all charges against me. The Supreme Court held an oral hearing in October 2025, and I am awaiting the decision with calm confidence.

I explained to the committee how the process has progressed through the different court levels and how it has been assessed. The hearing also more broadly examined current questions arising in European legislation and its interpretation, particularly regarding freedom of speech and freedom of religion.

— “Ultimately, the prosecutor wants to make believing in and citing the Bible socially unacceptable. I find it grossly offensive that resources of the state are going after you, said Representative John Knott (Rep.).

During the Judiciary Committee hearing, there was an in-depth discussion on how individual cases shape public debate, and how European and American systems differ in the realization of fundamental rights. The session lasted for three hours, and I answered numerous questions posed by committee members. Three other witnesses were also heard.

The prosecutor is seeking a conviction for two counts of agitation against an ethnic group. My case caused astonishment among members of Congress. The concern about the state of freedom of speech and freedom of religion in Finland was evident.

— “A criminal charge for sharing a Bible verse in an EU and NATO member state worries me deeply,” said North Carolina Congressman and pastor Mark Harris (Rep.).

This case is not only about me, but about whether the peaceful expression of religious conviction can be treated as a criminal act in today’s Europe.

It is about whether it is illegal to say what you believe. But still, I remain hopeful. I trust that freedom of expression can still be upheld. It is too important to lose.

During my trip, I also met with senior officials of the U.S. Department of State and have taken part in a Prayer and Repentance gathering with Speaker of the House Mike Johnson. I also participate in the National Prayer Breakfast and received recognition at the She Leads the Nations conference for women leaders.

More information and interview requests:

Päivi Räsänen Member of Parliament +358 505113065 paivi.rasanen@eduskunta.fi

Ossi Lehtihuhta Parliamentary assistant +358 50 563 3547 ossi.lehtihuhta@eduskunta.fi