European Parliament demands release of Jimmy Lai and detained journalists in Hong Kong

The European Parliament has adopted a resolution denouncing the sharp decline in press freedom in Hong Kong and calling for the immediate release of detained journalists, including publisher Jimmy Lai.

This development has been widely welcomed by press freedom advocates, including Reporters Without Borders (RSF).

On 28 November, the resolution was overwhelmingly approved, with 473 out of 594 Members of the European Parliament voting in favour.

It highlights the deteriorating press environment in Hong Kong, as reflected in the RSF World Press Freedom Index, where the region has fallen from 18th to 135th place in two decades.

The resolution explicitly condemns the detention of Jimmy Lai, founder of Apple Daily, who has been imprisoned since December 2020 on what it describes as trumped-up charges.

Lai, currently facing trial on National Security Law (NSL) charges, could be sentenced to life imprisonment. Six senior staff members of Apple Daily remain detained on similar charges.

The European Parliament also criticised the sentencing of Chung Pui-kuen, former editor-in-chief of the now-defunct Stand News, marking a troubling precedent for press freedom in Hong Kong.

The resolution condemned the forced closure of independent media outlets and the widespread fear that has prompted several news organisations to shut down and journalists to flee the territory.

The adoption of the NSL in June 2020 has been pivotal in the crackdown on media freedom. At least 28 journalists and press freedom defenders have been prosecuted under the law, with 11 currently detained.

In the past four years, authorities have shut down major outlets like Apple Daily and Stand News, with six additional outlets ceasing operations due to safety concerns.

Antoine Bernard, RSF’s Director of Advocacy and Assistance, expressed strong support for the resolution, stating, “This much-needed resolution highlights blatant violations of press freedom by Hong Kong and Chinese authorities. It is now paramount that democracies supporting the right to information increase pressure on authorities to restore press freedom in Hong Kong.”

The European Parliament resolution also urged the repeal of the NSL, citing its detrimental impact on fundamental freedoms and the rule of law. It further called for the unconditional release of all journalists detained under its provisions.

Lai, who turns 77 in two weeks, has become a symbol of press freedom resistance.

During his trial, Lai reaffirmed his commitment to democracy and freedom of speech, denying accusations of collusion with foreign forces.

Despite his imprisonment, the European Parliament has consistently advocated for his release, passing similar resolutions in April 2023 and earlier.

In April, the Parliament criticised the Hong Kong government for detaining and deporting RSF representative Aleksandra Bielakowska, who had travelled to monitor Lai’s trial.

RSF has highlighted Hong Kong’s dramatic fall in its press freedom rankings, from 18th in 2004 to 135th in 2024. China, which ranks 172nd out of 180 territories, has faced criticism for its role in these developments.

The resolution signals growing international concern over Hong Kong’s media environment, with RSF and other advocates urging sustained global pressure to reverse the decline and uphold the right to information in the region.