The European Conservatives and Reformists (ECR) Group strongly condemns the sentencing of Hong Kong pro-democracy publisher Jimmy Lai to 20 years in prison under the National Security Law imposed by Beijing.

The case marks the ultimate blow to Hong Kong’s autonomy, fundamental freedoms and the rule of law. The ECR Group warns that the verdict sends a chilling signal far beyond Hong Kong and reflects the final dismantling of democratic guarantees promised under the “one country, two systems” principle.

MEP Mariusz Kamiński, standing ECR Shadow Rapporteur on Hong Kong, said:

“The de facto life sentence imposed on the symbol of Hong Kong’s freedom, Jimmy Lai, shows how communist Beijing has taken control of all of Hong Kong’s institutions, including the judiciary. This verdict is an act of political terror.

“It is a clear message sent to the world by the Chinese Communist Party: anyone who stands up for freedom, truth, and democracy will be punished without mercy. The case of Jimmy Lai is a symbol of the collapse of Hong Kong’s promised autonomy and proof of the city’s complete subordination to Beijing’s authoritarian system.

“The European Union and the international community cannot remain indifferent. We demand the immediate and unconditional release of Jimmy Lai and all political prisoners in Hong Kong.”

The ECR Group reiterates its full support for fundamental freedoms, press freedom and the rule of law in Hong Kong, and calls on the European Union and like-minded partners to maintain strong and principled pressure in defence of these values.