Sword of Freedom of Speech

Finnish journalist Airi Leppänen (freelance) and young journalist Sylvia Bjon (newspaper Hufvudstadsbladet) have been rewarded by a grant for high achievements in journalism and a medal “Sword of Freedom of Speech” by Finnish Journalist Union.

Airi Leppänenri  has about 20 years experience of journalism and she has made numerous radio programmes and documental films about Russia, Finnish-Russian relations and about freedom of speech. She is a long time friend of Union of Journalists in Russia and an active member of Finnish Journalist Union (Suomen Journalistiliitto). Airi Leppänen actively participate in Barents Press projects.

Medal and grant are given every four years. The grant is 5 000 euros.

http://www.journalistiliitto.fi/?x233158=3017069

http://www.ruj.ru/2010/101213-6.htm

Translated and wrote in English: Sari Pöyhönen