Joephy Chan says there are far weightier issues closer to home that demand the attention of elected representatives in Strasbourg

While recent headlines have been dominated by the unreasonable ambition of the United States under the second Trump administration to annex Greenland, an autonomous territory of Denmark, the focus of the European Parliament has surprised many. On Jan 22, the European Parliament adopted a resolution condemning, “in the strongest terms”, the conviction of former media tycoon Jimmy Lai Chee-ying. This resolution has triggered widespread concern and criticism among the Hong Kong public, who view it as a blatant intrusion into the city’s judicial affairs.

The backlash was swift. On Saturday, members of the Hong Kong Federation of Trade Unions gathered at the Office of the European Union to Hong Kong and Macao to express, in equally strong terms, their opposition to the European Parliament’s interference in Hong Kong’s judicial system. The prosecution of Lai is an internal matter for Hong Kong, akin to the jurisdictional authority exercised by any sovereign jurisdiction over its legal proceedings. This principle of judicial independence, enshrined in the Basic Law of the Hong Kong Special Administrative Region, underscores that adjudications in the SAR must not be subjected to external influence, particularly from foreign entities.

READ MORE: LegCo members slam European Parliament's so-called HK resolution

Apart from labeling the trial of Lai as unjust, the European Parliament called for his immediate and unconditional release. As a matter of fact, this resolution reflects serious misunderstanding or malicious misrepresentation of the circumstances surrounding Lai’s case, which was adjudicated fairly by Hong Kong’s High Court based on substantial evidence of conspiracy to collude with foreign forces and to publish seditious material. Throughout Lai’s trial, numerous foreign consular officers, including many from Europe, have observed the proceedings. Their presence proves well the openness and transparency of the legal system in Hong Kong.

Criticism from the Western media often highlights Lai’s age and his alleged health issues as grounds for leniency, framing his situation as a violation of his human rights. However, it is essential to reaffirm that Hong Kong is a society governed by the rule of law. Every individual, regardless of their stature or age, is subject to the same legal standards. No one enjoys privileges above the law. Lai’s actions, which violated the Hong Kong SAR National Security Law, warrant a judicial response.  

The legal proceedings in Lai’s case are still ongoing, with sentencing yet to be handed down. After being sentenced, like any defendant, Lai is entitled to exercise his legal right to appeal if he is dissatisfied with the court’s decision. But of course, any appeal must be grounded in law, not political theatrics.

ALSO READ: European Parliament’s HK resolution parrots Capitol Hill China hawks’ rhetoric

The European Parliament went so far as to threaten to suspend extradition treaties with China and the Hong Kong SAR, to reconsider Hong Kong’s trade status under the World Trade Organization, and to impose sanctions on HKSAR officials, including Chief Executive John Lee Ka-chiu. These threats not only encroached on Hong Kong’s legal autonomy but also highlighted the hypocrisy of the European Parliament. While it seeks to impose sanctions and raise “concerns” regarding judicial matters in Hong Kong, the European Parliament remains silent on Western countries that enforce stringent national security laws. This exposes a double standard that abrasively undermines its credibility.

It is not too late for the European Parliament to mend its stance, and recognize facts and reality. At a time when Europe faces urgent and complex challenges, one must question the priorities reflected in this resolution. Perhaps it is time for the European Parliament to concentrate its efforts on pressing issues that genuinely concern Europe. The ongoing war in Ukraine continues to reshape European security and economic stability, demanding sustained attention and resources. Meanwhile, the situation surrounding Greenland raises serious questions about sovereignty and international norms closer to home. These issues deserve far greater attention from the European Parliament.

The author is a member of the Legislative Council and the UN Association of China.

The views do not necessarily reflect those of China Daily.