Protect Assange?

Ecuador has entered the big leagues, thanks to a certain imperial thorn stuck in the side of British foreign policy. The country has been mentioned across global media and the recent decision of its government discussed under major headlines, while images of President Rafael Correa and Foreign Minister Ricardo Patiño continue to be prominent in news outlets around the world. Meanwhile, the general public has rushed to express their own opinions on the issue, voicing their support or condemnation regarding the possibility of asylum for Julian Assange.

Beyond establishing new legal precedents, this event will no doubt have a considerable impact on both internal and external affairs. Given the breadth and depth of issues involved, Ecuador’s current policy merits more than a simple thumbs up or thumbs down. Those who disapprove of the government’s decision will conclude that taking on the hacker’s* case could put Ecuador in a difficult situation that could damage the country’s international relations. This would also have a negative effect on Ecuador’s economy, as poor relations could potentially impact its external trade, compromise its capacity to maintain a steady flow of resources with other nations, or put its relationships with financial institutions in jeopardy. Those who favor the decision do so on ideological grounds, feeling as if they are taking the side of a small but valiant nation against the arrogance of a great power.

Ecuador’s decision may have far-reaching consequences as well. Correa presumes that the judicial systems of Sweden and the United States won’t guarantee Assange fair judicial treatment. As a result, Ecuador’s president is working to gain support from the Organization of American States, Union for South American Nations and Bolivarian Alliance for the Americas. Yet conflicting interests within these groups add another layer of tension, and Correa’s appeal may lead to further geopolitical repercussions.

In addition, the measure may end up influencing Ecuador’s rapidly approaching electoral race. A campaign discourse espousing the “revolutionary” rejection of “imperialism” could very well overshadow the recent National Election Census scandal, as well as distract voters from allegations of corruption and freedom of information abuses.

What a shame it is see human rights serving such a purpose.

*Editor’s Note: Julian Assange is not a computer hacker. His website, Wikileaks, publishes leaked information provided by independent sources.