#FreeAssangeNOW campaign
The union has renewed calls for the release of Julian Assange and for an end to extradition efforts by the United States government.
Assange faces 175 years in prison if he is convicted of offences, several of which relate to the Espionage Act. He is accused of publishing classified information including documents exposing US military involvement in crimes.
The NUJ has condemned his pursuit by US authorities and echo concerns by the International Federation of Journalists (IFJ) about the chilling effect Assange’s extradition will have on all journalists. NUJ members can support the IFJ’s campaign by raising awareness on Twitter with #FreeAssangeNOW.
In October, NUJ members joined thousands forming a human chain around the UK Parliament. They gathered to demand Assange’s freedom and to stand up for freedom of expression.
Michelle Stanistreet, NUJ general secretary, stated the prosecution has "serious implications for any journalist exposing wrongdoing by the US government. A dangerous precedent and attack on freedom of expression, all charges against him should be dropped.”
Find out more on the IFJ’s campaign and take action.