Obituary: Helena Petäistö asked what others dared not

Helena Petäistö, a veteran Paris correspondent for MTV, passed away in Tampere on July 9, 2026, at the age of 75. She was a significant figure who brought the complexities of Europe into Finnish living rooms during the tumultuous Cold War era.

Petäistö was recognized for her courage in asking probing questions that other journalists hesitated to pose. She played a crucial role in explaining the profound changes occurring in Europe and Finland's place within it, acting as an interpreter for politicians' statements and providing context for unfolding events.

Beyond her journalistic achievements, Petäistö cultivated an impressive network among European political leaders. She also became a style icon for many Finnish women, admired for her poise and presentation. Her influence extended to mentoring and encouraging younger journalists, leaving a lasting legacy in Finnish journalism.

Her contributions were substantial, making her one of the key figures who illuminated the background of Europe's transformation for the Finnish public. Petäistö's work provided essential insights during a period of significant geopolitical shifts.

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Petäistö brought Europe into the living rooms of Finns during the transition of the Cold War. Europe and Finland as part of it changed fundamentally. Explanations and interpreters of politicians' words were needed for this change. Petäistö was one of the most important openers of the background of this change.