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Julian Assange Faces Pivotal Extradition Decision on May 20 Amid 13-Year Legal Battle

May 19, 2024, 07:13 AM

Julian Assange, the founder of WikiLeaks, is facing a critical moment as a British court is set to decide on his extradition to the United States on May 20. Assange has been embroiled in a 13-year legal battle, with significant opposition to his extradition from various quarters, including 31 Members of the European Parliament and the National Union of Journalists, who cite concerns over press freedom and allegations that the CIA plotted to kidnap and assassinate him. Jennifer Robinson, an international human rights lawyer, and Peter Hitchens have also voiced their support for Assange, emphasizing the broader implications for press freedom. The decision comes on the eve of his final hearing, amid widespread calls for his release. Advocates argue that his extradition would undermine press freedom globally. Journeyman Pictures has documented Assange's motivations, and there are calls for Joe Biden to celebrate press freedom by freeing Assange.