Press Statement
Society of European Journalists & Communication Professionals in Asia (JOCPA)
09 February 2026
The Society of European Journalists & Communication Professionals in Asia expresses deep concern over the sentencing of media publisher Jimmy Lai to 20 years in prison under Hong Kong’s National Security Law.
This verdict raises serious questions about the state of press freedom, freedom of expression and the rule of law in Hong Kong. Jimmy Lai’s case illustrates the increasing use of national security legislation to target independent media voices and restrict legitimate journalistic activity.
The erosion of media freedoms in Hong Kong has far-reaching implications, not only for local journalists and publishers, but also for the broader international media community operating in Asia.
We urge the Hong Kong authorities to uphold their international commitments, and we call on governments and international institutions to continue monitoring developments closely and to defend fundamental freedoms, including the right to independent journalism.
The protection of press freedom remains essential to open, accountable and resilient societies.
Freedom of the press is not a privilege — it is a right.
For further information or media inquiries, please contact:
📧 secretariat@jocpa.eu
🌐 www.jocpa.eu