On Thursday, members of the European Parliament took a significant stance on human rights issues in Hong Kong by adopting a resolution that calls for action against the territory’s officials. In a decisive move, the resolution urges the Council of the European Union to impose targeted sanctions under the EU Global Human Rights Sanctions Regime on those involved in the enforcement of controversial local laws.
The resolution specifically criticized Hong Kong’s National Security Law, introduced in 2020, which has faced international disapproval for its impact on civil liberties. Concerns were also raised regarding the National Security Safeguarding Ordinance, enacted in 2024, with lawmakers demanding both laws be repealed. Data highlighted in the resolution reveals that since June 2026, over 400 arrests have occurred, leading to more than 180 convictions. This situation underscores ongoing tension and challenges facing the region’s judicial practices. Further details are available in a report by JURIST.
The resolution condemned several legal actions against notable figures in Hong Kong, such as the arrest of bookseller Leticia Wong and the sentencing of activists Lee Cheuk-yan, Chow Hang-tung, and Albert Ho. Media owner Jimmy Lai received a 20-year prison sentence, sparking calls from the European legislators for dropping charges against these individuals and releasing political prisoners. The resolution witnessed broad support, passing by 459 votes in favor.
The European Parliament also urged the European Commission to consider additional measures, such as applying sanctions on Hong Kong and Chinese officials responsible for the perceived rights violations, and disrupting Hong Kong’s separate membership in the World Trade Organization.
In response, a spokesperson from the Chinese Mission to the European Union expressed dissatisfaction, denouncing the resolution as interference in China’s internal affairs. Beijing defended Hong Kong’s judicial system, asserting that it consistently upholds the rule of law and demands accountability from those violating local statutes. Chinese officials further appealed to the European Parliament to respect China’s sovereignty and the judicial processes in the Hong Kong Special Administrative Region.
This resolution represents a broader commitment by the European Union to address human rights concerns globally but also highlights the diplomatic complexities when engaging with China over sensitive geopolitical issues. The evolving dynamics of this situation are expected to influence future EU-China relations, particularly in trade and human rights dialogues.