Julian Assange, the founder of WikiLeaks, is a free man after spending over five years in London's Belmarsh maximum security prison. He was released on bail by the High Court on June 24th and departed the UK later that afternoon.
Assange's release follows a long and complex legal battle, culminating in a plea deal with the US Department of Justice. While details of the agreement remain undisclosed, it paved the way for his return home to Australia.
This victory is attributed to a global effort. Grassroots activists press freedom advocates, legislators, and international leaders rallied behind Assange, culminating in pressure on the US government. The United Nations also played a role, raising concerns about Assange's mental health and the harsh conditions he faced in prison.
Assange's confinement saw him isolated for 23 hours a day in a tiny cell. Now, after 1901 days, he can finally reunite with his wife, Stella Assange and their children, who have only known their father through prison visits.
WikiLeaks, under Assange's leadership, exposed government corruption and human rights abuses on a global scale, holding powerful figures accountable. His commitment to transparency came at a steep personal cost.
