The Parliamentary Assembly's Resolution 2571 emphasizes the critical role of a free press in democracy, spotlighting the case of Julian Assange, whose harsh treatment and conviction under the US Espionage Act raise significant concerns about freedom of expression and the protection of journalists. Assange's work with WikiLeaks helped expose serious human rights violations and war crimes. The Assembly considers that Mr Assange was punished, essentially, for engaging in acts of journalism. It expresses its concern that this disproportionately harsh treatment creates a dangerous chilling effect and a climate of self-censorship affecting all journalists, publishers and others reporting matters essential for the functioning of a democratic society. The Assembly therefore calls for reforms in the US Espionage Act to protect those disclosing classified information in the public interest, urges thorough investigations into alleged war crimes revealed by WikiLeaks, and advocates for the protection of whistle-blowers and journalists across Council of Europe member States.