Julian Assange, the founder of WikiLeaks, has been a controversial figure in the world of journalism and politics for many years. While some view him as a hero and a defender of freedom of speech and information, others see him as a criminal who put the lives of countless individuals in danger.

However, regardless of one’s personal opinion of him, it is important to examine the reasons why Julian Assange should be a free man.

First and foremost, it is a fundamental right for individuals to be free from arbitrary detention. The Universal Declaration of Human Rights states that everyone has the right to freedom of movement and residence within the borders of each state. The continued detention of Assange, who has spent over a decade in confinement, raises serious questions about the rule of law and the protection of human rights.

Furthermore, Assange’s extradition to the United States, where he faces charges under the Espionage Act, raises serious concerns about freedom of speech and the press. If Assange is found guilty of the charges against him, it could set a dangerous precedent for journalists and media organizations around the world, potentially chilling their ability to report on sensitive topics and exposing government wrongdoing.

Moreover, there are questions about the motives behind the U.S. government’s pursuit of Assange. Some argue that the real reason behind the charges against him is to silence him and discourage others from pursuing similar types of journalism. This would undermine the very principles of a free and open society, where individuals have the right to express themselves and hold the powerful accountable.

In addition, the conditions of Assange’s detention and extradition have also been criticized by human rights organizations and advocates. The harsh conditions of his confinement and the slow pace of the legal proceedings raise questions about the fairness of the proceedings and the impartiality of the judiciary.

In conclusion, Julian Assange should be a free man because the continued detention of an individual without due process and the pursuit of charges that could undermine freedom of speech and the press are unacceptable in a democratic society. The rule of law and protection of human rights must be upheld, and the motives behind the charges against Assange must be carefully scrutinized.