US State Department Responds to Jimmy Lai Sentencing in Hong Kong
The US Department of State has weighed in on the sentencing of Jimmy Lai, the prominent Hong Kong pro-democracy activist and founder of the Apple Daily newspaper. Lai has been one of the most high-profile figures prosecuted under Hong Kong's national security law, which was imposed by Beijing in 2020.
Lai's case has become a symbol of the erosion of press freedom and civil liberties in Hong Kong. His prosecution and sentencing have drawn widespread international condemnation, with Western governments and human rights organizations arguing that the charges are politically motivated. The State Department's response signals continued American concern over the trajectory of rights and freedoms in the territory, which was promised a high degree of autonomy under the 'one country, two systems' framework.
Lai's case has become a symbol of the erosion of press freedom and civil liberties in Hong Kong. His prosecution and sentencing have drawn widespread international condemnation, with Western governments and human rights organizations arguing that the charges are politically motivated. The State Department's response signals continued American concern over the trajectory of rights and freedoms in the territory, which was promised a high degree of autonomy under the 'one country, two systems' framework.