"Jimmy Lai's National Security Trial: A Test for Hong Kong's Democracy"

The national security trial of pro-democracy activist and media mogul Jimmy Lai has begun in Hong Kong, more than three years after his arrest. Lai is charged with "colluding with foreign forces" and conspiracy to publish seditious material under the national security law imposed by Beijing. If convicted, he could face life imprisonment. The trial, expected to last 80 days, is being closely watched by Western countries, who have condemned Beijing's crackdown on Hong Kong. Lai's supporters, as well as representatives from Western consulates, were present at the trial.