Public records, official announcements, or media reports

Julian Assange Testifies Before Council of Europe in First Public Appearance Since June 2024 Release

Oct 1, 2024, 06:52 AM

Julian Assange, the founder of WikiLeaks, made his first public appearance since his release from prison in June 2024. Assange testified before the Parliamentary Assembly of the Council of Europe (PACE) in Strasbourg, addressing issues related to his imprisonment and the broader implications for journalism. His testimony marked his first speech since 2019 and followed a report by PACE's Committee on Legal Affairs and Human Rights. Assange emphasized that he is free today not because the system worked, but because he pled guilty to journalism. He highlighted the increasing impunity, secrecy, and retaliation against journalists, and expressed gratitude for the support he received from various officials, unions, and activists. Assange also reiterated that journalism is not a crime and called for stronger protections for journalists worldwide. The session, which included representatives from 46 nations, began with opening comments from Lord Richard Keen. Assange faced a 175 year sentence before accepting a plea offer from the United States.