Julian Assange Ecuador Embassy

Julian Assange: A Timeline of His Time in the Ecuadorian Embassy

Refuge and Arrest

For seven years, Julian Assange, the founder of WikiLeaks, sought refuge in a small office converted into a bedroom within the Ecuadorian embassy in London. He remained there until his arrest on April 11, 2019.

Political Asylum and Investigation

In June 2012, Assange claimed political asylum at the Ecuadorian embassy to avoid extradition to Sweden, where he faced sexual assault allegations. Sweden eventually dropped its investigation, but Assange's asylum status remained.

British Police Involvement

In 2019, Ecuador revoked Assange's asylum and invited the British police to enter the embassy. This marked a dramatic end to Assange's long stay within the embassy's walls.

Significance and Impact

Assange's time in the Ecuadorian embassy brought international attention to the issues of political asylum, freedom of speech, and the role of whistleblowers. His arrest had significant implications for the future of journalism and the protection of sources.