Julian Assange pleads guilty to journalism for freedom

In June, Julian Assange was released after years of incarceration, having pleaded guilty to charges related to his role in publishing classified US government documents. His comments were made during a session with the Parliamentary Assembly of the Council of Europe in Strasbourg, where he expressed concerns about the implications of his case for freedom of expression. Assange highlighted that journalism should not be criminalized, emphasizing the importance of a free press in society. He reflected on the years lost during his legal battles, suggesting that the current climate has led to increased secrecy and retaliation against those who expose the truth. Assange's case remains polarizing, with supporters viewing him as a defender of free speech, while critics argue that his actions endangered lives and national security. He continues to seek a presidential pardon in the United States, where opinions on his actions vary significantly, with some officials labeling him a terrorist. The Council of Europe, which advocates for human rights, has expressed alarm over Assange's treatment, indicating a broader concern for the state of press freedom globally.