Hong Kong Journalists' Convictions Spark Global Outcry

The convictions of two Hong Kong journalists from the defunct Stand News have raised global concerns about press freedom in the city. Governments and media organizations worldwide have condemned the verdict, calling it an attack on freedom of expression and a blow to the city's journalistic integrity.

The convictions of two Hong Kong journalists from the now-shuttered Stand News have intensified fears over press freedom in the city. Despite assurances from local officials that journalists face no restrictions when reporting facts, global reactions were overwhelmingly critical.

Stand News' former editor-in-chief Chung Pui-kuen and former acting editor-in-chief Patrick Lam were found guilty of conspiring to publish seditious materials. The case, Hong Kong's first sedition trial involving media since 1997, has drawn condemnations from the U.S., U.K., European Union, and numerous media organizations.

The U.S. State Department, British officials, and the EU emphasized that the rulings undermine Hong Kong's reputation for openness and press freedom. Local officials, however, maintain that the convictions are justified, provided journalists adhere to factual reporting.

(With inputs from agencies.)