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November 29, 2024 – China/Europe –
The European Parliament overwhelmingly adopted a resolution condemning Hong Kong and Chinese authorities for the ongoing erosion of fundamental rights under the National Security Law (NSL). Passed by 473 votes to 23 with 98 abstentions, the resolution urgently calls for the “immediate and unconditional release” of jailed media tycoon Jimmy Lai and other detained journalists and pro-democracy activists.
The resolution highlights numerous violations: over 200 people have been arrested under the NSL, and legal abuse continues. Lai, who has been in custody since August 2020, faces life imprisonment and has been denied due process, including access to his British lawyer. The resolution cites a UN Working Group opinion from November 15, 2024, which labeled Lai’s detention “arbitrary” and urged his immediate release.
This action marks the first time the newly elected Parliament has formally addressed the plight of Jimmy Lai and fellow imprisoned media workers. The resolution specifically mentions not only Lai but also Chung Pui‑kun and other journalists currently detained under national security charges.
Reporters Without Borders (RSF) endorsed the resolution, urging the European Parliament to pressure Hong Kong’s government to drop all charges and release detained journalists. RSF emphasized Hong Kong’s dramatic decline in press freedom under Beijing’s influence.
The European Parliament resolution also condemns the forced closure of Apple Daily, the last major pro-democracy newspaper, and deplores media harassment, intimidation, and obstruction of independent coverage. MEPs have called for targeted sanctions against officials responsible for undermining Hong Kong’s autonomy under “one country, two systems”.
The resolution serves as a strong signal from the EU to reaffirm its commitment to human rights and press freedom. It demands that Hong Kong and Chinese authorities respect international legal obligations under the Sino-British Joint Declaration and the International Covenant on Civil and Political Rights
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