Assange case raises press freedom concerns, says UN High Commissioner for Human Rights

Michelle Bachelet, the United Nations High Commissioner for Human Rights, said on Saturday that a possible extradition of Julian Assange to the United States raised concerns for press freedom and could have “chilling effects” for investigative journalism. She said she met the WikiLeaks founder’s wife and lawyers on Thursday.

Julian Assange, who has been detained since 2019 in the high-security Belmarsh prison near London, has appealed the British government’s decision to extradite him to the United States.

Prosecuted for the disclosure of more than 700,000 confidential documents

The 51-year-old Australian is being prosecuted in the United States for having published in 2010 on the WikiLeaks site more than 700,000 confidential documents relating to the activities of the American army, in particular in Iraq and Afghanistan. He faces decades in prison if convicted of espionage under a law prohibiting the disclosure of confidential information.

“I am aware of the health issues that Julian Assange suffered while in detention, and remain concerned for his physical and mental well-being,” the High Commissioner added in a statement.

Concerns for press freedom

“Mr. Assange’s possible extradition and possible prosecution raises concerns about freedom of the press and possible chilling effects for investigative journalism and whistleblower activities,” she said. valued.

She stressed “the importance of ensuring respect for Julian Assange’s human rights, in particular his right to a fair trial” and assured that his services would closely follow his case.

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