The purpose of the visit was to draw attention to human rights issues in Thailand and discuss Andy Hall's case at a European Parliament session.

Hall was found guilty in a court case brought by the pineapple juice producer Natural Fruit in Thailand. He was convicted of tarnishing the company's reputation, among other charges, after having revealed problems with the working conditions at the factory.

During their visit, Rankinen and Hall met with members of the European Parliament, as well as Cecilia Malmström, European Commissioner for Trade. In its resolution, the European Parliament found Hall's conviction to be unfortunate and expressed its concern about the legal process and its possible effects on the freedom of human rights work. In addition, the Parliament expressed its support for S Group's efforts to help Andy Hall.

Rankinen and Hall had been invited to visit the European Parliament by MEP Heidi Hautala.