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MOTION FOR A RESOLUTION (2026/2573(RSP))

On the conviction and imminent sentencing of Jimmy Lai in Hong Kong

B-10-2026-0085

on behalf of the S&D Group · Rapporteur: Yannis Maniatis, Francisco Assis, Kathleen Van Brempt, Sakis Arnaoutoglou

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✦ In short · AI summary of this text, generated 4 Sept 2026

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This resolution condemns the conviction of Jimmy Lai in Hong Kong as a grave violation of fundamental freedoms and the rule of law, and calls for his immediate release and the dropping of all charges against him and others prosecuted for peaceful activism. It also urges Hong Kong and Chinese authorities to restore judicial independence and fair trial rights, and calls on the EU and member states to intensify diplomatic efforts and consider measures against those responsible for human rights violations.

Key points

  1. Strongly condemns the conviction of Jimmy Lai and his imminent sentencing as a grave violation of freedom of expression, press freedom and the rule of law.
  2. Calls for the immediate and unconditional release of Jimmy Lai and for dropping all charges against him and others prosecuted solely for peaceful exercise of fundamental rights.
  3. Deplores the use of the National Security Law and sedition legislation to silence independent journalism, elected officials and political opposition, breaching Hong Kong's international obligations.
  4. Expresses full solidarity with journalists, human rights defenders, lawyers and civil society actors in Hong Kong facing intimidation, prosecution and imprisonment.
  5. Urges Hong Kong and Chinese authorities to restore respect for judicial independence, fair trial rights and fundamental freedoms, and to repeal or amend legislation contravening international human rights standards.
  6. Calls on the EU and its member states to intensify diplomatic engagement, raise Jimmy Lai's case in bilateral and multilateral fora, and consider appropriate measures against those responsible for serious human rights violations.
  7. Reaffirms that respect for human rights and fundamental freedoms remains an essential element of the EU's engagement with the People's Republic of China.

Who is affected

  • Jimmy Lai and other individuals prosecuted for peaceful exercise of fundamental rights in Hong Kong.
  • Journalists, human rights defenders, lawyers and civil society actors in Hong Kong.
  • Hong Kong and Chinese authorities, who are urged to restore judicial independence and fair trial rights.
  • EU and its member states, called on to intensify diplomatic engagement and consider measures.