Hong Kong Media Mogul Jimmy Lai’s Trial Wraps Up
The national security trial of Jimmy Lai, a Hong Kong media tycoon, closed on Thursday. The critic of the Chinese Community Party has become a symbol of how free speech has been squashed in the city.
Political Prisoners
What to Know About Jimmy Lai’s Trial in Hong Kong
The media tycoon, jailed since 2020, ran a now-defunct newspaper that was critical of the government.
Jimmy Lai’s Freedom May Now Hinge on Beijing and Trump
As the outspoken Hong Kong publisher awaits a verdict, his trial has become a test of China’s resolve to crush dissent, and of whether President Trump can free him.
Targeted by the Emirates, an Arab Dissident Vanished Across Borders
After criticizing the United Arab Emirates on social media, an Egyptian activist was extradited to the Gulf country, where he has been detained without trial for months.
Iran’s Evin Prison Is Holding Dissidents Again
Israel largely destroyed Evin prison, one of Iran’s most infamous symbols of oppression, in June. Less than two months later, Iran began returning male prisoners.
Tiébilé Dramé, Voice for Rights in Mali, Is Dead at 70
A former foreign minister, he founded an opposition political party and then served in the government as an unflagging negotiator with northern rebels.
Thaksin Shinawatra, Former Thai Premier, Cleared of Insulting Monarchy
But the reprieve for Thaksin Shinawatra, who remains a political force, did not mean that the legal troubles for him and his family were over.
They Were Treated Like Orphans. But They Knew the Truth.
In Syria, the Assad regime took hundreds of children away from their parents. A Times investigation reveals the workings of the operation — and how one family fought to reunite.
He Left a Belarus Prison 132 Pounds Lighter, but Just as Outspoken
The release of Sergei Tikhanovsky and 13 other political prisoners in Belarus was a diplomatic win for the Trump administration.
Arrests in Turkey Silence Erdogan’s Rivals, Opposition Says
Turkey has arrested at least 390 people associated with the political opposition since March.