Paul Tucker
Updated on: October 16, 2024 7:39 am GMT
Julian Assange, the founder of WikiLeaks, has made headlines once again with a powerful statement regarding his recent plea deal with U.S. authorities. In his first public remarks since his release, Assange boldly claimed he “pleaded guilty to journalism” to secure his freedom.
Assange’s Testimony in Strasbourg
Assange traveled to Strasbourg, France, to speak before the Parliamentary Assembly of the Council of Europe (PACE). During this appearance, he addressed not only his own situation but also the broader implications for journalism and human rights.
“I want to be totally clear: I am not free today because the system worked,” Assange declared. He emphasized that his freedom came after years of incarceration, stating, “I pled guilty to seeking information from a source, I pled guilty to obtaining information from a source, and I pled guilty to informing the public what that information was.”
A Cautionary Tale for Journalism
In his remarks, Assange highlighted the dangers journalists face today. He warned that “the criminalization of newsgathering activities is a threat to investigative journalism everywhere.” This statement echoes a growing concern among journalists and media advocates about the challenges they face in their pursuit of truth.
Key points from Assange’s testimony include:
- Journalism should not be prosecuted.
- Reporters must be able to gather and publish information freely.
- Assange’s conviction was obtained while he was in Europe for reporting on the U.S.
His Journey From Prison to Freedom
After spending five years in London’s high-security Belmarsh Prison, Assange’s release came in June after he struck a deal with U.S. prosecutors. He faced 18 criminal charges and was at risk of a 175-year sentence before agreeing to plead guilty to a single felony charge. The plea allowed him to leave prison after serving time.
“I was formally convicted by a foreign power for asking, for receiving and publishing truthful information about that power,” Assange explained. “The fundamental issue is simple: journalists should not be prosecuted for doing their jobs. Journalism is not a crime. It is a pillar of a free and informed society.”
Struggles with Freedom
During the statement, Assange expressed mixed feelings about his newfound freedom. He noted that adjusting back into everyday life, particularly in his roles as a father and husband, has been both positive and challenging. He described the sounds of electric cars as “spooky,” reflecting on how long he had been away from daily life.
Assange admitted that the years of isolation took their toll on his ability to express himself: “Expressing myself in this setting is a challenge.” Despite these challenges, he remains focused on using his experience to advocate for others who face similar situations.
Calls for Lawmaker Action
Assange urged European lawmakers to take a stand to protect freedom of expression. He criticized existing legal protections, claiming they often “only existed on paper” and were not effective. He described his situation as indicative of a larger issue affecting not only journalists but also whistleblowers.
“I eventually chose freedom over unrealisable justice,” Assange stated. He called on lawmakers to act against a growing culture of impunity and secrecy.
The Future of Investigative Journalism
Assange’s case raises important questions about the future of investigative journalism. With the increasing risks that reporters face in the digital age, his experiences serve as a reminder of the ongoing struggles for press freedom worldwide. Assange’s journey is a testament to the ongoing fight for transparency and accountability.
As he navigates his new life outside of prison, Assange’s commitment to advocating for press freedom remains clear. His voice continues to resonate in a world where many journalists still face persecution for their work.
Julian Assange’s release and his words are very important for press freedom and the safety of journalists. He wants to raise awareness about these big issues. It’s really important for lawmakers to listen to him and make changes, especially since journalism is facing many dangers today.
