Adopted text
Conviction and imminent sentencing of Jimmy Lai in Hong Kong
TA-10-2026-0018 · P10_TA(2026)0018 · PE782.024
- Adopted in plenary on · Adopted 503–9–100 · See the decision →
- Full procedure 2026/2573
✦ In short · AI summary of this text, generated 4 Sept 2026
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The European Parliament condemns the conviction of Jimmy Lai in Hong Kong and urges his immediate release, along with all others detained for exercising freedoms.¶ It calls for the repeal of the National Security Law and the Safeguarding National Security Ordinance, and for sanctions against Hong Kong officials.¶¶ It also urges member states to suspend extradition treaties with China and Hong Kong, and calls on the Commission to initiate suspension of Hong Kong's WTO status.¶
Key points
- Condemns Jimmy Lai's conviction and expresses grave concern over his imminent sentencing.¶
- Urges Hong Kong authorities to immediately and unconditionally release Lai and all others detained for exercising freedoms, drop all charges, and guarantee fundamental rights.
- Urges Hong Kong authorities to provide Lai and other political prisoners with immediate access to specialised medical care.
- Emphasises that Lai's prosecution exemplifies systematic use of state security laws to eliminate independent media, free speech and political opposition.¶
- Reiterates strong condemnation of the NSL and SNSO and calls for their repeal.¶
- Condemns transnational repression of journalists, activists and diaspora, including in the EU.¶
- Calls on member states to suspend extradition treaties with China and Hong Kong and provide protection to individuals at risk of political persecution.
- Calls on the Commission to initiate suspension of Hong Kong's status under the World Trade Organization.
- Considers life imprisonment for Lai unacceptable, with severe consequences for EU-China relations.¶
- Urges the Council to review its 2020 conclusions on Hong Kong and adopt sanctions under the EU Global Human Rights Sanctions Regime against Chief Executive John Lee and all responsible officials.¶
- Calls on the EU Delegation to intensify diplomatic engagement and monitoring regarding Lai's situation and related cases.¶
Who is affected
- Hong Kong authorities: urged to release Jimmy Lai and others, drop charges, and provide medical care.¶
- Member states: called on to suspend extradition treaties with China and Hong Kong.¶
- Commission: called on to initiate suspension of Hong Kong's WTO status.
- Council: urged to adopt sanctions against Hong Kong officials.¶
- EU Delegation: tasked with intensifying diplomatic engagement and monitoring.¶