Where the law stands, Dossier 2026/2573(RSP)
Conviction and imminent sentencing of Jimmy Lai in Hong Kong
Resolution on a topical subject (RSP): Parliament states its view. It is not binding. · First reading
A resolution tabled by political groups, usually on an urgent matter or in reaction to a statement by the Commission or Council. Not binding.
Where it stands
Parliament’s position
Parliament adopted the text on 22 January 2026. This is its final position on the matter.
- Tabled for plenary(done)
- Plenary vote(done) Adopted 22 January 2026
- Parliament’s position(done) Final
Decided in plenary
22 January 2026 · decision 4
Foreign affairs, Resolution
Conviction and imminent sentencing of Jimmy Lai in Hong Kong
Adopted 503 for · 9 against · 100 abstained by an overwhelming majority
AI summary:Parliament adopted a resolution condemning the conviction of Jimmy Lai, a British citizen and media entrepreneur in Hong Kong, and calling for his immediate release.
What changed
Latest Tabled for plenary → Adopted by Parliament
No change of substance: the two versions differ only in presentation — cover page, numbering or the parts a report carries that the adopted text does not.
The text, version by version
Newest first.
Adopted by Parliament· 22 Jan 2026
AI summary:The European Parliament condemns the conviction of Jimmy Lai in Hong Kong and urges his immediate release, along with all others detained for exercising freedoms.
Tabled for plenary· 21 Jan 2026
Tabled for plenary· 19 Jan 2026
Motion for a resolution B10-0085/2026
AI summary:This resolution condemns the conviction of Jimmy Lai in Hong Kong as a grave violation of fundamental freedoms and the rule of law, and calls for his immediate release and the dropping of all charges against him and others prosecuted for peaceful activism.
Tabled for plenary· 19 Jan 2026
Motion for a resolution B10-0086/2026
AI summary:This resolution condemns the conviction of Jimmy Lai under Hong Kong's National Security Law as politically motivated and calls for his release and the release of others detained for peaceful rights exercise.
Tabled for plenary· 19 Jan 2026
Motion for a resolution B10-0068/2026
AI summary:This resolution condemns the conviction and imminent sentencing of Jimmy Lai in Hong Kong, calling for his release and for the repeal of the National Security Law.
Tabled for plenary· 19 Jan 2026
Motion for a resolution B10-0084/2026
AI summary:This resolution condemns the conviction of Jimmy Lai in Hong Kong and urges his immediate release, alongside all others detained for exercising freedoms. It calls for repealing the National Security Law and Safeguarding National Security Ordinance, suspending extradition treaties, and imposing EU sanctions on officials.
Tabled for plenary· 19 Jan 2026
Motion for a resolution B10-0082/2026
AI summary:This resolution condemns the conviction of Jimmy Lai in Hong Kong and calls for his immediate release, medical care, and the release of all detained journalists and writers.
Timeline
Newest first.
Plenary stage 2 steps
22 January 2026
Plenary vote
Sitting of 22 Jan 2026 Motion for a resolution B10-0068/2026Motion for a resolution B10-0082/2026Motion for a resolution B10-0084/2026Motion for a resolution B10-0085/2026Motion for a resolution B10-0086/2026Adopted text TA10-0018/2026
21 January 2026
Debated in plenary
MEPs debated the text in the chamber ahead of the vote.
Sitting of 21 Jan 2026 Motion for a resolution B10-0068/2026Motion for a resolution B10-0082/2026Motion for a resolution B10-0084/2026Motion for a resolution B10-0085/2026Motion for a resolution B10-0086/2026
Official record: Legislative Observatory, 2026/2573(RSP)