Freedom is an interesting word. I've often wondered what does it mean to those who tout freedom in their political speeches, for example in the recent U.S. presidential elections. Both candidates were talking about freedom for the American people, they also wanted to work for freedom of the Iraqi people. Freedom can be either as 'free from something'  or 'free to do something'. Aren't both American and Iraqi people as free from oppression (both are independent countries), and as free to do what they want from political and human rights point of view. Surely some people are seen more free than others because of better financial opportunities, but in the end most of us living in independent and stable countries are equally free disregard of our wealth.

The Universal Declaration of Human Rights celebrated its 60th anniversary last week. It consists of 30 articles declaring freedom, justice and rights for all people. These 30 articles should be endorsed by all member states of UN, now unfortunately we know that this is not so. Some of the less stable countries foresee for some reason that they do not need to adhere to these commonly accepted rules. Freedom there is more of a theory than practice.

Some newspapers have asked their readers to list freedoms that they think they have gained and lost. The Economist's Intelligent Life reports, for example, of an American lawyer who lists freedom from torture lost, and the right to put leaders on trial for crimes against humanity without them being able to claim immunity as a head of state, as a freedom gained. A scientist lists internet as freedom gained, and "rulebooks toted by lawyers and petty bureaucrats" as freedom lost. Interesting reading.

Helsingin Sanomat newspaper asked the same questions from some Finnish people from areas of culture, science and politics. Most of these people listed the as freedom to think and speak the most important one gained.  Lost freedoms were associated with s.c. war on terror and the power of financial markets over democratic decision making.

Our very own former president of Finland, Martti Ahtisaari, accepted his Nobel Peace prize last week. He has been working on the more traditional concept of freedom and peace as a peace negotiator in Namibia, Ireland, Kosovo and Indonesia. It is stunning to over and over realize how much of the world's progress and good deeds are because of one individual believing in his/her cause and driving that relentlessly forward. I am very proud that this individual, this time, came from my country. My sincere support to all those other individuals out there who don't give up on their cause no matter how tough the situation gets.