Source: The Hindu

Introduction

Julian Assange, an Australian citizen who got Ecuadorian asylum is facing allegations related to leaking confidential documents of United State’s army. Recent comments by President of United States, acknowledging consideration of request to end the prosecution, have injected a sense of optimism among Julian Assange's family and supporters. From media relations to legal fundraising and advocacy efforts, various strategies have been employed to shed light on the complexities surrounding Julian Assange's case.

What is the Background of Julian Assange’s Case?

• Julian Assange is an Australian citizen and the founder of Wikileaks which was established in 2006.
• He is infamous for releasing over ten million confidential documents.
• He was arrested in 2019 in London where UK's Supreme Court ordered his extradition to Sweden.
• Thereafter he was granted in the Ecuadorian embassy, yet he faces legal battles, including dropped Swedish rape allegations and an ongoing United States extradition case.
• Initially, United Kingdom courts approved his extradition for divulging military secrets.
• Later, a judge of UK blocked Julian Assange's extradition in 2021, followed by its overturning on appeal by the United States, a fervent campaign has ensued to secure his freedom.

What is the Public Awareness Campaign in Julian Assange Case?

• The campaign has extended beyond traditional media avenues.
• Strategic above-the-line advertisements in prominent publications and guerrilla projections across London have amplified the call for Assange's freedom.
• The campaign reframed Julian Assange's case around the fundamental right to freedom of speech.
• By challenging prevailing assumptions and emphasizing this key issue, media outlets globally are now echoing the call for the US to drop extradition proceedings.

What are the International Concerns?

• Beyond legal and diplomatic considerations, Julian Assange's prolonged detention raises significant human rights concerns.
• United Nations experts have expressed apprehension over the potential impact on Julian Assange's health and the broader implications for journalism and freedom of speech globally.

Conclusion

As Julian Assange's legal battle reaches a critical juncture, the fight for his freedom attracts individual interests. It symbolizes a broader struggle for democratic values and the fundamental right to freedom of expression.