What's happened
Julian Assange, in his first public statement since his release, emphasized that he chose freedom over justice after pleading guilty to journalism-related charges. Speaking to the Parliamentary Assembly of the Council of Europe, he urged lawmakers to protect freedom of expression amid increasing threats to journalists and whistleblowers.
Why it matters
What the papers say
According to The Guardian, Assange stated, "I am not free today because the system worked. I am free today after years of incarceration because I pled guilty to journalism." This sentiment underscores the challenges faced by journalists in the current climate. The Independent reported that Assange's wife, Stella, emphasized the need for him to recuperate after his long incarceration, highlighting the personal toll of his legal battles. Meanwhile, the New York Times noted that Assange's actions have polarized opinions, with some viewing him as a hero and others as a threat to national security. This division reflects broader societal debates about the role of journalism in holding power accountable.
How we got here
Julian Assange was released in June 2024 after pleading guilty to charges related to obtaining and publishing U.S. military secrets. His plea deal concluded a lengthy legal battle that began with the publication of classified documents in 2010, which exposed U.S. military actions in Iraq and Afghanistan.
Common question
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What Did Julian Assange Say About Human Rights?
Julian Assange's recent testimony at the Council of Europe has sparked significant discussions about human rights and press freedom. His statements raise critical questions about the implications of his case for journalists and the broader impact on human rights globally. Below, we explore key questions surrounding Assange's claims and their relevance today.
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WikiLeaks is an international non-profit organisation that publishes news leaks and classified media provided by anonymous sources.
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The United States of America, commonly known as the United States or America, is a country mostly located in central North America, between Canada and Mexico.
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The Council of Europe is an international organisation whose stated aim is to uphold human rights, democracy and the rule of law in Europe.
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The Northern Mariana Islands, officially the Commonwealth of the Northern Mariana Islands, is an insular area and commonwealth of the United States consisting of 14 islands in the northwestern Pacific Ocean.
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Australia, officially known as the Commonwealth of Australia, is a sovereign country comprising the mainland of the Australian continent, the island of Tasmania, and numerous smaller islands.
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The Parliamentary Assembly of the Council of Europe is the parliamentary arm of the Council of Europe, a 47-nation international organisation dedicated to upholding human rights, democracy and the rule of law.