French President Francois Hollande rejects Wikileaks founder Julian Assange’s request for asylum

Julian Assange's request for asylum has been rejected by the French government, saying he does not face “immediate danger”. 

 

The Wikileaks founder had written to French President Francois Hollande, noting the country's history of supporting the repressed. Assange claimed his life was in danger, according to Le Monde, which published the letter.

 

But today the government has responded with a “non”. 

 

"France has received the letter from Mr. Assange. An in-depth review shows that in view of the legal and material elements of Mr Assange's situation, France cannot grant his request," a statement by President Francois Hollande's office said.

 

"The situation of Mr Assange does not present an immediate danger. Furthermore, he is subject to a European arrest warrant."

 

Assange has been living for the past three years in Ecuador's London embassy, where he took refuge to avoid extradition to Sweden over alleged sex crimes.

 

He faces immediate arrest on a European Arrest Warrant issued by the Swedish authorities if he steps outside the building.