Julian Assange's First Public Appearance Since Release

Julian Assange, the founder of Wikileaks, appeared publicly for the first time since his release from a high-security prison in the UK. He addressed the Council of Europe's Committee on Legal Affairs and Human Rights in Strasbourg.

Assange, who spent twelve years in embassy asylum and prison, returned to Australia after his release. He had pleaded guilty to conspiracy to disclose information related to national defense as part of an agreement with the US justice system, which led to a formal sentence of five years and two months, already served during his time in Belmarsh Prison.

The Council of Europe’s Parliamentary Assembly (PACE), representing 46 countries, will investigate his imprisonment and conviction, focusing on their impact on human rights. Assange has been a polarizing figure, accused of publishing confidential US military and diplomatic documents, revealing war crimes, and putting American national security at risk.

Critics see him as a threat, while supporters view him as a hero of transparency and free speech. Despite his lengthy legal battles and significant time in isolation, Assange continues to advocate for better protection for journalists worldwide.