On Monday, December 15, 2025, the High Court of the Hong Kong region delivered a landmark verdict: opposition activist and Apple Daily founder Jimmy Lai was found guilty of collusion and sedition under the National Security Law.
Lai, a veteran media entrepreneur, now stands as the most prominent figure convicted since the law’s enactment in 2020. His trial has drawn global attention, with advocates and critics alike watching for the ruling’s impact on press freedom and civil society in Hong Kong.
Under the National Security Law, collusion with foreign forces carries a maximum sentence of life imprisonment, while sedition also attracts severe penalties. Sentencing is scheduled for a later date, leaving Lai’s fate in the hands of the courts.
Legal experts suggest this case could reshape the region’s media landscape, prompting news outlets and startups to reassess the boundaries of reporting and commentary. Investors and entrepreneurs are also monitoring the situation closely, weighing its implications for Hong Kong’s reputation as a business hub.
For thought leaders and changemakers, the verdict raises broader questions about the balance between security and freedom in global cities. As digital platforms continue to bridge borders, the ruling highlights the challenges that democracies face in safeguarding both openness and stability.
Stay tuned as myglobalnews.net follows this developing story, exploring what comes next for Jimmy Lai and the future of free expression in Hong Kong.
Reference(s):
cgtn.com
