Story perspectives

Rubio Calls Jimmy Lai's Sentence Unjust, Urges Humanitarian Parole

2/10/2026

Summary

Story summary

Secretary of State Marco Rubio condemned 20-year sentence of Jimmy Lai as unjust and tragic.
Jimmy Lai, British citizen and Apple Daily founder, was convicted under China's national security law for colluding with foreign forces.
Rubio said the verdict highlights Beijing's push to suppress freedoms in Hong Kong, violating the 1984 Sino-British Joint Declaration.
Rubio urged humanitarian parole for Lai, citing deteriorating health after over five years in detention.

History

Historical Context

The Sino-British Joint Declaration, signed on December 19, 1984, established "one country, two systems" for Hong Kong, ensuring its autonomy until 2047. However, since 2014, China has claimed the agreement is no longer binding, leading to significant civil liberties erosion. The recent conviction of Jimmy Lai under the national security law highlights ongoing international concerns about human rights violations in Hong Kong.

1 of 2

Story summary

Secretary of State Marco Rubio condemned 20-year sentence of Jimmy Lai as unjust and tragic.
Jimmy Lai, British citizen and Apple Daily founder, was convicted under China's national security law for colluding with foreign forces.
Rubio said the verdict highlights Beijing's push to suppress freedoms in Hong Kong, violating the 1984 Sino-British Joint Declaration.
Rubio urged humanitarian parole for Lai, citing deteriorating health after over five years in detention.

1 / 2