UK Declines Councilors of Europe Mediation Over Assange Case

UK Declines Councilors of Europe Mediation Over Assange Case

 

In a significant development, the United Kingdom has declined calls from the Council of Europe to engage in discussions regarding the ongoing case of WikiLeaks founder Julian Assange. The Council, Europe’s leading human rights body, had expressed concerns over the implications of Assange’s potential extradition to the United States, urging the UK government to reconsider its position and explore a resolution that aligns with human rights principles.

 

The refusal comes amid escalating international pressure on the UK to halt Assange’s extradition. Assange, currently detained in London’s Belmarsh Prison, faces charges in the US under the Espionage Act for publishing classified government documents. If extradited and convicted, he could face up to 175 years in prison, a prospect that human rights organizations have described as a severe threat to press freedom.

 

In a statement released earlier this week, the Council of Europe had called on the UK to protect journalistic freedom and consider the wider implications of the case.

 

Dunja Mijatović, the Council’s Commissioner for Human Rights, emphasized that Assange’s extradition would set a dangerous precedent, potentially criminalizing investigative journalism globally. She urged the UK to engage in dialogue to find a solution that respects international human rights standards.

 

However, a spokesperson for the UK government reiterated its stance that the legal process surrounding Assange’s case is independent and must run its course without political interference. The government emphasized its commitment to upholding the rule of law and respecting judicial independence, suggesting that external mediation was unnecessary and inappropriate.

 

The decision to decline the Council of Europe’s overtures has drawn criticism from advocacy groups and political figures worldwide. Amnesty International condemned the UK’s position, stating that it showed a disregard for press freedom and human rights. “This is a pivotal moment for the UK to demonstrate leadership in protecting freedom of expression. Rejecting dialogue is a step backward,” said Agnes Callamard, Secretary-General of Amnesty International.

 

Protests in support of Assange have intensified in recent weeks, with demonstrators rallying outside Parliament and Belmarsh Prison. His supporters argue that the case is politically motivated and that Assange’s prosecution represents an attack on transparency and accountability.

 

Observers suggest that the UK’s decision could strain its relationships with European allies and global human rights organizations. As the case progresses, pressure on the UK government is likely to grow, with activists vowing to escalate their campaign to secure Assange’s release and block his extradition.

 

For now, Assange’s fate remains in legal limbo, with his supporters determined to continue fighting for his freedom in the face of mounting legal and political challenges.