Human Lives Human Rights: In response to the UK High Court’s decision to postpone Julian Assange’s appeal for extradition to the United States, human rights advocates expressed their concerns:
“The High Court’s ruling leaves Julian Assange and all champions of press freedom in a state of uncertainty, but the battle is far from over. With the opportunity for US lawyers to present diplomatic assurances in May, it is crucial for the US to drop all charges against Assange instead of prolonging this legal ordeal.
“Despite the serious risk of torture or mistreatment that Assange may face in the US, the UK persists in its efforts to extradite him. Past experiences demonstrate the inadequacy of assurances, and the ones provided in Assange’s case are fraught with loopholes.
“Regrettably, the court dismissed some of Assange’s arguments, particularly regarding the political nature of the extradition. It has temporarily halted proceedings on other grounds to allow for the consideration of diplomatic assurances from the US.
“The US must cease its politically motivated persecution of Assange, which not only jeopardizes his safety but also threatens media freedom globally. By pursuing his imprisonment, the US sends a clear message to journalists and publishers worldwide that they risk similar treatment for disseminating classified information in the public interest.”
Background:
The UK High Court’s decision to adjourn Assange’s appeal follows a hearing held on February 20-21. The court will revisit the case on May 20, allowing the US to provide additional diplomatic assurances.
Assange faces the possibility of severe human rights violations if extradited to the US, a prospect that raises concerns about a chilling effect on global media freedom.
