The recent guilty verdict in the national security case against Jimmy Lai has drawn attention to Beijing's enforcement of laws that critics say are used to suppress advocates for freedom of speech and other basic rights. These are rights that China committed to protect under the 1984 Sino-British Joint Declaration.
According to reports, Lai’s health has significantly worsened during his imprisonment, which has lasted over 1,800 days. Authorities are being urged to end his detention promptly and release him on humanitarian grounds.
"Mr. Lai is not alone in facing punishment for defending these rights," a statement read. "We urge the authorities to bring this ordeal to an end as soon as possible and to release Mr. Lai on humanitarian grounds."
