What now for Julian Assange?

His physical health is suffering and he misses his family, but Julian Assange is pulling through, says his London-based Australian lawyer Jennifer Robinson.

“He is coping as well as can be expected in difficult circumstances,” Robinson tells WHO. “Julian has not been able to enjoy his privacy or his family life for more than five years. He didn't get to see his grandfather before he died. He can't see his children. It is awful.”

Julian Assange. Photo: Getty

On Feb. 5, a United Nations expert panel found that Assange, 44, had been arbitrarily detained in the UK since his arrest in 2010, calling on the Swedish and British authorities to end his “deprivation of liberty.”

“I consider the outcome in this case to be vindication,” said Assange.

But both the UK and Swedish governments dismissed the finding, claiming that the Australian, who is wanted for questioning in Sweden over alleged sexual assaults (which he denies), could leave the embassy at any time. “We completely reject any claim that Julian Assange is a victim of arbitrary detention,” said a British government spokesman.

Australian lawyer Jennifer Robinson. Photo: Getty

Robinson disagrees. “Both UK and Sweden reactions are disappointing, and indeed dangerous for the rule of law,” she says.

The Swedish prosecutor overseeing Assange’s case has now renewed a request to interview Assange in the embassy. “This is still a matter for negotiation,” says Robinson, adding: "I believe the prosecutor would have reason to drop the preliminary investigation if she hears Julian's testimony.”

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