Thursday, June 04, 2026
Julian Assange, founder of whistleblowing website WikiLeaks, has been living inside the tiny Ecuadorian embassy in London for six years, unable to exit for fear of extradition to the US to face charges of espionage and other serious crimes. On August 16, 2012 Foreign Minister Patiño announces that Ecuador is granting Assange political asylum because of the threat represented by the United States secret investigation against him and several calls for assassination from many American politicians. In its formal statement, Ecuador reasons that “as a consequence of Assange’s determined defence to freedom of expression and freedom of press… in any given moment, a situation may come where his life, safety or personal integrity will be in danger.” On August 18, 2012 Latin American states express support for Ecuador, with President Rafael Correa confirming that Assange could stay at the embassy indefinitely. The following day Assange gives his first speech from the corner balcony – supporters forfeiting £293,500 in bail and sureties. His home since then has been a medium-sized room converted into a studio apartment, equipped with a bed, telephone, sun lamp, computer, shower, treadmill, and kitchenette
