lling message to journalists and activists in Hong Kong,” said Maria Ressa Nobel laureate and press freedom advocate. Freedom of expression and independent media are essential pillars of any democracy and this ruling undermines both. Lai’s family released a statement saying he would “face imprisonment with dignity” and warned that the sentence could cost him his life behind bars. They urged the international community to continue advocating for Hong Kong’s civil liberties. International human rights groups have condemned the ruling. The United Nations and European Union issued statements calling for the protection of press freedom and the release of political prisoners in Hong Kong. Meanwhile, Chinese authorities have defended the verdict asserting that it enforces the law and maintains social stability. Lai’s imprisonment is expected to have a profound impact on Hong Kong’s media landscape. Particularly on outlets critical of the government. Observers warn that the case could further intimidate journalists and curtail public discourse in the city. The sentence comes at a time of heightened global scrutiny over Hong Kong’s autonomy and Beijing’s tightening control, reinforcing concerns that the freedoms promised under the “one country, two systems” framework continue to erode. Source: CBS News