27 October 2021

Akademie der Künste condemns the ongoing disregard for the rule of law in the treatment of Julian Assange 

On 27/28 October 2021, the extradition proceedings against Wikileaks founder Julian Assange are being continued before the court in London. The Akademie der Künste repeats its demand for the journalist, publicist and publisher to be treated humanely and according to the rule of law.

Judicial treatment of Julian Assange's case thus far exemplifies the erosion of basic democratic values. The expected transfer to US courts will have far-reaching consequences for journalists throughout the world as well as for academics and artists. At risk is nothing less than the freedom of expression. Julian Assange is being used to set an example intended to intimidate and weaken the fourth estate. Supposed democratic authorities must not be allowed to attack the freedom of the press, science, and art.

In July 2021, on the initiative of Günter Wallraff, the Akademie der Künste together with numerous other supporters demanded in an open letter to Chancellor Angela Merkel that she advocate for the release of Julian Assange.